Narrator, “Q”
The narrator of this poem is moving along in a line. Though the destination is unknown, it is clear that the narrator is rather anxious to reach the head. Once he does, however, he is merely directed to another line. At this news, he seems surprised and somewhat reluctant. Yet, he does as he is told and relocates to the end of a new line, where he begins to once again move contentedly toward the front. Though very little is known about the narrator’s appearance, emotional state, or life, it is clear from his complacency that he either understands or simply accepts the conventions of this world where one moves from line to live without argument.
Lady, “Q”
This woman is only featured in one line, in one stanza of this poem. She plays a very minimal, and rather vague role. This woman—simply identified in the poem as “the lady in front.” It is possible that this woman is manning this particular line or it is possible that she is merely one ahead of the narrator and that he asks her where to proceed next once she reaches the front. Regardless, it is not likely that this woman has a relationship with the narrator and instead, her purpose is to nonchalantly direct the man to his next queue.
Narrator, “Beguiling”
The narrator of this poem is infatuated—practically obsessed—with an unnamed woman. He describes this woman as beguiling, a word that means captivating or entrancing. Though it is unclear whether the narrator finds her physically appealing, emotionally engaging, or intellectually impressive, what is clear is that his fascination motivates him to work harder. This narrator’s infatuation and obsession with this woman runs so deep that a single look or interaction from/with the woman is enough to cultivate in him an incredible sense of drive.
The Woman, “Beguiling”
As with most of McGough’s poems, very little is known about the woman in this poem. This woman is the object of the narrator’s affections and serves as his motivation. Her very presence and atmosphere inspire him and encourages him to work hard and consistently. McGough has designed this poem so that all of this woman’s features—physical or otherwise—are provided and sculpted by each individual reader. As such, there is no one way to describe this character other than captivating and enchanting, per the narrator’s description.
Narrator, “The Leader”
The narrator of this poem can best be described as childish, irresponsible, and containing little foresight. In the first stanza, the narrator speaks to a group of unnamed people with a near child-like insistence. He practically begs the other individuals to let him be the leader. Ultimately, the man obtains the leadership position he so greatly coveted. Again, he celebrates with childish enthusiasm. Then, after only a few moments, he defers to the other individuals in his group and begins to seek advice to them—proverbially passing the leadership responsibilities to others. Therefore, the narrator can best be characterized as an immature man, who covets leadership positions, but is unprepared and/or unwilling to accept those responsibilities.
Unnamed Individuals, “The Leader”
Per McGough’s other poems, very little is known about the individuals that are mentioned in this poem. The narrator’s references to these people are limited. He begs them to be made the leader and then, after his efforts are successful, he asks these individuals what “we” should do. It can therefore be assumed that these people simply appointed the narrator as leader because of his insistent begging. It is therefore likely that, once the narrator defers his responsibility to them, these people will regret their decision to give in to these childish fantasies.
Narrator, “The Time I Like Best”
The narrator of this incredibly short poem wishes to share with the readers how he finds and sees tranquility in world around him. He describes how his favorite time of day is at 6:00 in the morning, after a fresh layer of snow has fallen. During this time, it will likely still be dark. A hint of the sun may just begin to creep over the horizon, setting the snow ablaze with diamond-like sparkles. It is therefore not difficult to image why the narrator would find this sight so soothing and tranquil. The fresh-fallen, untouched snow is a reflection of the man’s mental state. He, like the snow, is completely fresh; his brain is a blank slate and is ready to face the day, having begun it in such a tranquil state. As such, the narrator of this poem can best be characterized as a man who prioritizes and values tranquility, and who views it as a reflection of his own daily potential.
