Robert is a self-educated Scottish farmer and poet who writes using a distinct blend of English and Scots dialect. He works the land alongside his brother after their father's death, experiencing firsthand the demanding physical labor and unpredictable obstacles of agricultural life. In his poetry, he acts as an empathetic speaker who recognizes the vulnerability shared between humans and nature. He uses his rural background to express authentic emotion, breaking down the barriers between human industry and the natural world.

The mouse is a tiny, fearful creature who works diligently to build a winter shelter out of green foliage, leaves, and stubble in a bare field. She acts on instinct to survive the bleak December winds, even if she must occasionally take a small amount of grain from the harvest. Her destroyed nest demonstrates how carefully laid plans can fail unexpectedly, leaving even the most industrious creatures exposed to harsh elements.

William is a self-educated tenant farmer who takes an active role in his children's early lives. He teaches his children at home and helps establish a local adventure school to ensure they receive an education in subjects like mathematics and Latin. His difficult life in agriculture eventually ends in bankruptcy, passing the heavy labor of farm management to his sons.

Gilbert is the younger brother of Robert. Following their father's death and financial ruin in 1784, Gilbert and Robert take over the daily responsibilities of the land. He engages directly in the heavy agricultural labor that defines his family's working-class lifestyle.

Jean is the wife of Robert. She relocates with him to a new town when the intense physical toll of farm work and heart complications force him to transition into a new career as an excise officer.

Agnes is the matriarch of the Burnes family. She raises seven children in rural Alloway, Scotland, managing the household while her husband works as a tenant farmer.

John is an educator who helps found a local adventure school in the parish. He teaches children Latin, French, and mathematics until his departure from the area causes the school to close three years later.