Fridriech Nietzche
In "Reason looks for tow, then arranges it from there" Hejinian references the postmodern prophet, Nietzche. She's trying to make sense of how beauty can be observed in patterns. There seems to be some indeterminable order to how the mind reacts to stimulus. She turns to Nietzshche's solution, which is that a person of integrity will observe patterns because they exist.
Hejinian's Father
He is a curious character, a collector. In "As for we who 'love to be astonished'" he is accumulating pieces of glass washed ashore in a jar like treasures. During the air raid drill, he drinks water from a glass. These two images -- glass and the sea -- are linked with his characterization according to his daughter. To her, his memories are clear and shiny and smooth.
Hejinian's Mother
She is a lively character. In "As for we who 'love to be astonished'" she breaks her arm after trying to stomp down the trash in the dumpster. Hejinian recalls how absent-minded her mom could be, always dreaming. She couldn't help with homework because she would start thinking about how nice a backyard with a tire swing would be. Even during the air raid drill, she leaves the baby half undressed to stare out the window at the terrifying darkness.
Hejinian's Grandmother
She is featured in "A name trimmed with colored ribbons." She is a meticulous gardener, tending her plants with love and filling the house with fresh flowers. In Hejinian's recollection, she once planted a special flower which proved to be a gift of life for the whole family.
Hejinian's Grandfather
He is a stern, rather reserved old man in "The obvious analogy is with music." Though he never served in war, he carries himself with the sort of discipline and rigor of a soldier. Taking daily walks, he breaks silence only to greet the neighbors with a single word.
Marie
She is Hejinian's sister. She's named for her aunt, but Hejinian stresses how the name is often mispronounced when it should carry a French tone.
