Chimamanda is a Nigerian American writer separated from her parents and siblings by pandemic-related international lockdowns. When she learns of her father's sudden death, she experiences an intense, suffocating physical reaction that distorts her perception of reality. She finds her usual command of language failing her, prompting her to document her disjointed emotional and physical states in an effort to impose order on her sorrow.

James is Chimamanda's father, a mathematician and university professor who retired in Abba, Nigeria. He is a gentle, attentive listener who previously survived the Biafran War and a kidnapping, experiences that made him cautious but did not harden his warm nature. He dies suddenly of kidney failure exacerbated by an infection, setting off the central grieving process for his family.

Grace is Chimamanda's mother and the first female registrar at the University of Nigeria. She lives in Nigeria and shares a devoted marriage with James, having refused to marry anyone else after meeting him despite her family's initial skepticism. Following his passing, she attempts to organize his memorial services while restricted by the pandemic.

Okey is one of Chimamanda's brothers living in Nigeria. Known for his good humor, he frequently jokes with his sister and teases his father. When James passes away, Okey immediately steps into a caretaking role, managing the morgue arrangements and fighting to secure appropriate funeral services during the lockdown.

Chukes is one of Chimamanda's siblings who resides in Nigeria. He bears the heavy responsibility of delivering the news of James's death to Chimamanda over the phone. He processes the loss alongside his family, observing the psychological defenses that arise during sudden bereavement.

Ijeoma is Chimamanda's sister, located in Nigeria with the majority of the family. Prior to James's death, she believes his condition is stable and expects him to return home after routine kidney tests. She participates in the collective digital mourning sessions, sharing stories and memories over video calls.

Kene is one of Chimamanda's brothers who lives in Nigeria. He remains with the family unit during the lockdown, experiencing the physical absence of his father within the house. His presence in Nigeria represents the communal mourning that Chimamanda envies from afar.