Raja is a contemplative, introverted philosophy teacher living in Beirut with his mother. As a gay man living in a conservative society, he has spent much of his life feeling like an outsider within his own family. He is deeply reflective, multilingual, and observant. He carries the emotional weight of his country's turbulent history, retreating inward when faced with national crises.

Zalfa is Raja's resilient and outspoken mother. Accustomed to getting her way, she possesses a sharp, expletive-laden sense of humor that masks her deep strength. She refuses to be bullied by societal expectations or difficult circumstances. She fiercely protects those she loves while maintaining an active social life in her later years.

Boodie is a former high school classmate of Raja's who becomes an active combatant during the Lebanese Civil War. He operates within a local militia and acts as Raja's captor, holding him hostage in a garage apartment. He coerces Raja into a highly confusing and abusive sexual dynamic under the guise of keeping him safe.

Nahed is Raja's cousin and a professional masseuse. As a child, she is a confident tomboy who prefers physical activities over playing with dolls, putting her at odds with her family's traditional gender expectations. She explores her queer identity in a conservative society, eventually finding comfort in her own skin as an adult.

Yasmine is Raja's aunt and Nahed's mother. In her younger years, she is a harsh enforcer of traditional patriarchal norms, frequently bullying Raja for his lack of masculinity and judging Zalfa before she produced a male heir. In her old age, she battles dementia and requires supplemental oxygen, forcing a change in her family standing.

Farouk is Raja's older brother and the clear favorite of their father. He adheres to normative standards of masculinity and remains comfortable in his privileged position as the eldest son. He is manipulative and unkind. He frequently bullies Raja and demonstrates hostility even toward his own mother.

Raja's Father is a domineering patriarch who rigidly enforces traditional gender roles. He expects unquestioning docility from his wife and aggressive masculinity from his sons. He openly displays his anger and disappointment in Raja's artistic interests, creating a difficult environment that profoundly impacts his family.

Madame Taweel is a large, imposing local gangster who runs a lucrative black-market generator business in Beirut. Despite her criminal enterprise and intimidating bodyguards, she is a deeply loyal, competent, and caring friend. She utilizes her vast network to assist those she loves without hesitation.

Mrs. Murata is a Japanese woman living in Beirut before civil conflict forces her to leave. She is a kind neighbor who recognizes young Raja's alienation. She helps nurture his early interest in aesthetics, literature, and the Japanese language.

Micheline is widely considered the most beautiful girl in Raja's high school class. She is socially savvy. She selects Raja as her talent show dance partner because she senses he is the only boy capable of executing a routine respectfully.

Joe is Micheline's boyfriend and the spoiled son of a parliamentarian. He associates with Raja primarily to acquire hashish for himself and his friends. He treats Raja poorly despite utilizing his connections.

Yves is Joe's close friend. He spends his time riding around with Joe. He smokes hashish supplied by Raja and acts unkindly toward him.

Mr. Cat is a terrified stray kitten brought to Raja during his captivity. Fed a bizarre diet of odds and ends, the tiny creature becomes Raja's sole source of comfort during a traumatic period of isolation.