Dexter is an ambitious young man from a middle-class background who desires upward social mobility. The son of a local grocery store owner and a Bohemian mother, he seeks to transcend his origins by gaining wealth and entering high society. He builds a highly successful chain of laundries but remains driven by his fantasies of glittering success and romance.

Judy is the exceptionally beautiful and wealthy daughter of a prominent golf club patron. She commands attention effortlessly and expects the world to bend to her desires. Aware of the social currency her attractiveness provides, she keeps a rotating audience of male admirers off balance through unpredictable affection and sudden aloofness.

Irene is a sweet, honorable, and slightly stout young woman who represents stability. She pleasantly dismisses other suitors when Dexter proposes to her. Unlike the demanding and dramatic women in Dexter's orbit, Irene is reliable and content. She offers him a peaceful, domestic future.

Mr. Jones is an elite patron at the Sherry Island Golf Course and a member of Minnesota's high society. He represents the established wealth and social power that Dexter idolizes and hopes to emulate.

Devlin is a business associate from the Midwest who intersects with Dexter's professional life. He maintains ties to the social circles Dexter left behind and carries casual news about the people who still live there.

T. A. Hedrick is a wealthy but tiresome golfer at the local club. He serves as an example of the established elite whom Dexter secretly views as inferior in skill and drive.

Lud Simms is a man from Detroit known within the Midwestern social networks. He is a close friend of Devlin and remains connected to the circles Dexter once frequented.