Emily is a prolific poet born in Amherst, Massachusetts. Though she attends parties and sleigh rides in her youth, she gradually becomes averse to face-to-face social interactions. She writes her poetry privately on envelopes, bills, and scraps of paper, maintaining her connection to the outside world through extensive letter-writing.

Austin grows up in Amherst as the oldest child in the prominent Dickinson family. He marries Susan Gilbert and maintains a significant presence in his family's social circle.

Lavinia lives with her parents and siblings in their Amherst home. She remains closely involved in the daily household routines alongside her sister Emily and takes a strong protective interest in her sister's private writings.

Edward is a successful lawyer and politician who provides financial stability for his household. He serves as the treasurer of Amherst College from 1835 to 1837.

Emily Norcross originates from a prosperous farming family before marrying into the Dickinson household. She works as a homemaker raising three children in Massachusetts.

Susan marries Austin Dickinson and becomes a vital fixture in the Dickinson family orbit. She shares a profoundly close bond with Emily, receiving numerous letters from the poet that lead to speculation regarding the intensity of their connection.

Thomas commands a unit of Black Union soldiers during the Civil War. He communicates regularly with Emily via letters, though he feels lukewarm about her unusual poetic style and grammar.

Mabel is a creative scholar who enters the Dickinson family's orbit. She engages in an extended affair with Austin and takes a strong interest in standardizing poetry for publication.

Josiah works as an editor for the largest newspaper in New England. He maintains a robust written correspondence with Emily Dickinson.

Samuel serves as an editor for a major New England newspaper. He exchanges letters with Emily Dickinson, keeping her connected to the outside world.