Bernardo is an assistant bookkeeper and writer living in a squalid, lonely room in Lisbon. An isolated and deeply philosophical man, he spends his days moving between his tedious job and his private space, observing the city from his window. He suffers from a near-constant state of existential longing and relies on daydreaming and literature to escape the alienation of modern urban life.

Vasquez is the boss at the bookkeeping firm where Bernardo works. He dictates the schedule and expectations of the office, treating his employees with general politeness except on days when he is personally irritated. To Bernardo, he symbolizes the imperious and inescapable reality of modern societal expectations.

Moreira is the head bookkeeper who supervises the daily operations at the office. She works alongside Bernardo and reports to Vasquez. Her constant, unchanging presence makes her a fixture in Bernardo's daily routine, representing the monotonous nature of his employment.

An author who frequents a local café in Lisbon. He acts as the frame-narrator for the book's preface, observing and eventually engaging with a fellow writer. He takes an interest in the stranger's work and acts as the custodian for the resulting manuscript.

A young, unpublished writer who strikes up a conversation with Fernando in a café. He shares details of his life and writing before eventually entrusting his written records to his new acquaintance.

A young barber in Lisbon who cuts Bernardo's hair. He engages in pleasant, mundane conversation while working, providing his client with a rare, calming moment of direct human interaction.