The White Goddess, also known as the Mountain Mother, is a divine figure with a threefold nature representing the cycle of the seasons. She possesses striking physical features that include a white forehead, blue eyes, rowan-berry colored lips, and honey-colored hair. She embodies the natural world and acts as a powerful muse for those who seek her. She exhibits both nurturing and cruel behaviors toward her followers.

The speaker, representing a collective group of sailors or seekers identified only as "we," is a devoted follower of the White Goddess. They willingly endure extreme environmental conditions, searching from volcanoes to pack ice to understand her mysteries. The speaker actively pursues a heroic virtue despite facing direct opposition from conservative religious figures.

This group consists of restrained, conservative individuals who strictly value moderation. They act as religious oppressors who disapprove of ecstatic or Goddess-centered rituals. They refuse to travel or seek out adventure, preferring the safety of their rigid spiritual rules and philosophical boundaries.

Apollo is a masculine Greek deity associated with mathematical reasoning and strict moderation. In the poem's cosmology, his philosophical guidelines rule the conservative men who oppress the Goddess's followers. He represents a logical restraint that contrasts directly with the ecstatic worship of the Goddess.