# Unknown Narrator — Poetry character guide > Unknown Narrator in Poetry by Ring Lardner. **Role:** major **Also known as:** I, mine, myself, your **First appearance:** 0000-clever-class-poem ## Snapshot The roving first-person voice of the collection, by turns a class poet, a baseball mourner, and a bleary-eyed father chronicling the small comedies of his household. ## Who they are This narrator moves through the book as its constant consciousness, addressing a class of nineteen-one, a young stranger, and his own children with the same wry, confiding tone. His distinctive tension is between sentiment and self-mockery: he wants to honor graduations, babies, and ballplayers, yet keeps tripping over his own absurdity. He matters because every early poem is filtered through his shifting moods, making him less a fixed character than the sensibility that holds the collection together. ## Relationships ### [John Z. Vogelslang](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/characters/john_z_vogelslang) _psychological_ John Z. Vogelslang dominates the narrator's consciousness with obsessive, cryptic interactions, suggesting a manipulative or haunting presence. ### [Young Stranger](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/characters/young_stranger) _social_ The narrator encounters a young stranger repeatedly, with an air of curiosity and fleeting connection. ### [Fred C. Schwab](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/characters/fred_c_schwab) _professional_ Fred C. Schwab appears as a business or institutional figure, engaging the narrator in formal or transactional exchanges. ### [John J. Mitchell](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/characters/john_j_mitchell) _professional_ John J. Mitchell interacts with the narrator in a workplace or bureaucratic context, often with a tone of authority. ### [Son Lou](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/characters/son_lou) _family_ Son Lou is a child or younger relative of the narrator, evoking protective and affectionate dynamics. ### [Kid Gleason](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/characters/kid_gleason) _friendship_ Kid Gleason is a rough-and-tumble companion, sharing camaraderie and streetwise banter with the narrator. ### [Daddy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/characters/daddy) _family_ Daddy is the narrator's father, a figure of authority and emotional weight, often distant or stern. ### [Brother John](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/characters/brother_john) _family_ Brother John is a sibling, sharing a bond of rivalry and loyalty with the narrator. ### [Lurid Lew](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/characters/lurid_lew) _social_ Lurid Lew is a shady or flamboyant acquaintance, involved in the narrator's underground social scene. ### [Cousin Paull](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/characters/cousin_paull) _family_ Cousin Paull is a relative with whom the narrator shares a mix of familiarity and tension. ### [Charley Deneen](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/characters/charley_deneen) _friendship_ Charley Deneen is a loyal friend and drinking buddy, often present in the narrator's daily life. ### [Maclay](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/characters/maclay) _professional_ Maclay is a colleague or superior in a work setting, engaging the narrator in formal duties. ## In the story ### [Clever Class Poem](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/clever-class-poem) The poet and narrator of the class poem, reflecting on the shared journey and bidding farewell to the class. ### [In the Wake of the News](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/in-the-wake-of-the-news) The narrator speaks in first person throughout the chapter, sharing personal anecdotes and verses. ### [Monday](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/monday) The narrator explains the origin of the short Monday column, citing a boss's instruction to rest one day a week. ### [Come On, You Roseate Day!](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/come-on-you-roseate-day) The narrator delivers a motivational poem to a fellow writer, advising against resting on laurels. ### [To the New One](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/to-the-new-one) The speaker, likely a parent or older sibling, addresses the newborn Phil with affectionate teasing. ### [West Town Storm](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/west-town-storm) The narrator attempts to compose a rhyme but is repeatedly interrupted by the storm and power outages. ### [This Afternoon](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/this-afternoon) The speaker who is compelled to stay at the game despite the cold. ### [The Youngest One Breaks In](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/the-youngest-one-breaks-in) The narrator who humorously mishears the word and celebrates the event. ### [To the Man Higher Up](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/to-the-man-higher-up) The speaker who writes at home or at the office, pleading for a private room. ### [To the Latest](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/to-the-latest) The speaker who lovingly addresses the new arrival and refuses to have the child named after him. ### [Help Wanted](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/help-wanted) The speaker, a caretaker or nursemaid, who cheerfully performs most duties but seeks relief from answering questions. ### [The Eternal Question](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/the-eternal-question) The exasperated parent or adult figure being worn down by endless questions. ### [Exit Madge](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/exit-madge) The narrator expresses grief over Madge's departure and the loss of her nurse, who cared for their son. ### [A Mysterious Antipathy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/a-mysterious-antipathy) Describes the family dynamics and Brother Jim's animosity toward No. 3. ### [Parting](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/parting) The father who must leave his little ones and three small sons for a journey through far eastern lands. ### [First Aid](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/first-aid) The narrator uses a rhyming dictionary and reflects on its limitations. ### [Obituary](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/obituary) The narrator pens the obituary with misty eyes and a heavy heart. ### [Today's Results](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/today-s-results) The narrator speaks in first person, making predictions and inviting criticism if wrong. ### [Exalted Above His Fellows](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/exalted-above-his-fellows) The proud parent who observes and contrasts his son's joy with other famous figures' accomplishments. ### [Bib Ballads](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/bib-ballads) The father and author who reflects on parenting, discipline, and his son's antics throughout the poems. ### [Goodbye Bill](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/goodbye-bill) The speaker who wrestles with spending the dollar bill on personal pleasures versus family needs. ### [A Visit from Young Gloom](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/a-visit-from-young-gloom) The speaker who recounts the unpleasant visit and expresses relief at the stranger's departure. ### [An Appreciative Audience](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/an-appreciative-audience) The speaker who addresses his son and muses about the simplicity of entertaining children versus adults. ### [Discipline](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/discipline) The father who disciplines his child by locking him in a room. ### [Inexpensive Guests](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/inexpensive-guests) The narrator hosts three doll guests at meals and observes the lack of impact on the grocery bill. ### [His Sense of Humor](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/his-sense-of-humor) The parent who compares their own humor with their son's and finds the boy's pranks unfunny. ### [Speech Economy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/speech-economy) The narrator observes and celebrates the child's linguistic shortcuts. ### [Welcome to Spring](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/welcome-to-spring) The narrator speaks as a parent, expressing relief at the end of winter bundling. ### [Taste](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/taste) The parent or observer who wonders at the child's unconventional choices. ### [Riddles](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/riddles) The speaker poses riddles from a child's perspective, questioning the asymmetry of enjoyable versus tedious tasks. ### [Hesitation](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/hesitation) The speaker who is reluctant to wake the child from a joyful nap. ### [His Wonderful Choo-Choos](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/his-wonderful-choo-choos) The narrator observes the child's play and later deals with the aftermath. ### [Cousinly Affection](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/cousinly-affection) The speaker, likely an older child, addresses their own feelings and actions toward Cousin Paull. ### [My Baby's Garden](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/my-baby-s-garden) The speaker observes the baby's garden and reflects on the scene. ### [Decision Reversed](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/decision-reversed) The narrator experiences irritation during Christmas shopping, then a change of heart upon seeing his child's joy. ### [The Grocery Man and the Bear](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/the-grocery-man-and-the-bear) The storyteller who invents and repeatedly tells the tale of the Grocery Man and the Bear to a captivated child. ### [Coming Home](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/coming-home) The speaker of the poem, addressing the house and anticipating the child's return. ### [His Imagination](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/his-imagination) The father who wistfully admires his child's imaginative play. ### [His Memory](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/his-memory) The father who envies his son's memory and struggles with adult worries. ### [Confession](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/confession) The speaker who describes his reverse-detective method of parenting. ### [His Lady Friend](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/his-lady-friend) The speaker, presumably a parent, who feels abandoned by the son's new attachment. ### [Declaration of Independence](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/declaration-of-independence) The parent or caregiver observing and addressing the child's declaration of self-sufficiency. ### [The Eternal Greeting](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/the-eternal-greeting) The speaker of the poem, likely the father, reflecting on the child's greeting and the nature of their bond. ### [Guess Again](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/guess-again) The child who offers to help daddy but really wants to play. ### [Nearly a Sinecure](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/nearly-a-sinecure) The narrator watches his child play at going to the office and wishes for such an easy job. ### [The Heckuses](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/the-heckuses) The skeptical parent who doubts the existence of the Heckus family. ### [His Favorite Role](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/his-favorite-role) The speaker addresses the child, marveling at their imaginative capacity and questioning their choice of role. ### [The Paths of Rashness](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/the-paths-of-rashness) The narrator speaks in first person, addressing 'son' and warning against rash behavior. ### [The New Plaything](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/the-new-plaything) The speaker, likely a parent, addresses the boy and reflects on his possible reactions to the new baby. ### [B. F. Affleck](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/b-f-affleck) The speaker of the poem, expressing a wry appreciation for bumpy roads. ### [J. N. Armstrong](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/j-n-armstrong) The narrator who asks Armstrong to tell his story. ### [Nathan Ascher](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/nathan-ascher) The speaker who disparages Nathan Ascher's lack of productivity. ### [Jas. A. Ballard](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/jas-a-ballard) The speaker who sends a rush order for coal and appreciates fair pricing. ### [F. L. Bateman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/f-l-bateman) The speaker who addresses F. L. Bateman with gratitude and humor. ### [Richard Beamish](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/richard-beamish) The narrator presents a humorous limerick about Richard Beamish. ### [A. F. Brockman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/a-f-brockman) The narrator offers a concise, admiring portrait of Brockman. ### [Geo. B. Caldwell](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/geo-b-caldwell) The narrator delivers a sardonic commentary on Geo. B. Caldwell. ### [Wm. H. Clare](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/wm-h-clare) The speaker expressing doubt about the new customs collector. ### [F. Y. Coffin](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/f-y-coffin) The speaker of the verse, delivering a lighthearted take on mortality and insurance. ### [Charles A. Comiskey](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/charles-a-comiskey) The voice behind the limerick, speaking directly to Son Lou and praising Charles A. Comiskey. ### [F. A. Cotharin](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/f-a-cotharin) The speaker who has been sold insurance by F. A. Cotharin and plans to get even by dying before the premium is due. ### [Charles H. Dean](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/charles-h-dean) The narrator offers a playful, rhyming description of Charles H. Dean. ### [P. L. Deutsch](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/p-l-deutsch) The narrator observes and describes P. L. Deutsch's golfing reactions. ### [George B. Dryden](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/george-b-dryden) The narrator presents a lighthearted, admiring portrait of George B. Dryden. ### [Harry W. Dubiske](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/harry-w-dubiske) The narrator observes and comments on Harry W. Dubiske's role as a teacher of salesmanship. ### [J. C. Dunn](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/j-c-dunn) The narrator reports hearing J. C. Dunn's story. ### [Victor Elting](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/victor-elting) The narrator who observes Victor Elting getting dressed and realizes the purpose of snowshoes. ### [Uriah S. Epperson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/uriah-s-epperson) The narrator provides a witty observation about Uriah S. Epperson's initials and his influence in Kansas City. ### [Chas. (Chick) Evans](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/chas-chick-evans) The speaker of the limerick, who claims to be very like Chick Evans in golfing skill. ### [Herman Friestedt](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/herman-friestedt) The narrator presents a lighthearted verse about Herman Friestedt. ### [Harry R. Gibbons](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/harry-r-gibbons) The narrator expresses a personal connection with Harry R. Gibbons through their mutual support of the White Sox, despite political disagreements. ### [J. P. Graver](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/j-p-graver) The narrator aligns with J. P. Graver's fishing philosophy. ### [Lelan O. Green](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/lelan-o-green) The narrator presents a playful, admiring sketch of Lelan O. Green. ### [Wells W. Hawtin](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/wells-w-hawtin) The narrator presents a brief, witty profile of Wells W. Hawtin. ### [Wm. J. Healy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/wm-j-healy) The speaker of the limerick, addressing the reader directly. ### [Charles Herendeen](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/charles-herendeen) The narrator presents a short, whimsical portrait of Charles Herendeen. ### [August Herrmann](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/august-herrmann) The speaker who reflects on August Herrmann's character and reputation. ### [E. W. Houser](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/e-w-houser) The speaker who calls upon E. W. Houser to stand and bow, offering a toast. ### [G. J. L. Janes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/g-j-l-janes) The narrator presents a lighthearted, admiring portrait of G. J. L. Janes. ### [James Levy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/james-levy) The narrator observes and describes James Levy's transition from cycling to selling planes and cars. ### [M. DeWitt McAlpine](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/m-dewitt-mcalpine) The narrator delivers a lighthearted, admiring verse about M. DeWitt McAlpine. ### [Chas. A. McCulloch](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/chas-a-mcculloch) The speaker who offers the tribute to McCulloch. ### [Jas. C. McGill](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/jas-c-mcgill) The speaker of the verse, using 'we' to express a collective, casual attitude. ### [C. R. McKay](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/c-r-mckay) The speaker of the poem, reflecting on McKay's position and the allure of a carefree spot in Michigan. ### [Col. Angus McLean](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/col-angus-mclean) The narrator presents a lighthearted verse about Scottish pride. ### [Harry Moir](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/harry-moir) The narrator addresses the reader, describing Harry Moir and his hotel. ### [W. R. Moorhouse](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/w-r-moorhouse) The speaker who contrasts his own gambling habits with Moorhouse's trap shooting. ### [G. E. Muehleback](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/g-e-muehleback) The narrator presents a whimsical, poetic description of G. E. Muehleback's melancholy. ### [Col. L. M. Nicolson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/col-l-m-nicolson) The narrator presents a playful limerick about Col. L. M. Nicolson. ### [Alfred O'Gara](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/alfred-o-gara) The speaker who expresses nervousness about flying in O'Gara's taxiplane. ### [Senator John F. Overfield](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/senator-john-f-overfield) The speaker addressing 'Kid' and describing Senator Overfield. ### [John E. Owens](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/john-e-owens) The narrator who recounts John E. Owens's story and expresses belief in it. ### [Arthur A. Patterson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/arthur-a-patterson) The narrator presents a lighthearted verse about Arthur A. Patterson. ### [Ferdinand W. Peck](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/ferdinand-w-peck) The narrator presents a biographical sketch of Ferdinand W. Peck. ### [Lt. Col. N. M. Percy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/lt-col-n-m-percy) The doughboy who speaks in the limerick, reflecting on his survival and the surgeon's unusual title. ### [C. S. Peterson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/c-s-peterson) The narrator presents a satirical verse about C. S. Peterson. ### [Dr. W. S. Phillips](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/dr-w-s-phillips) The speaker who reflects on Dr. Phillips' prediction and imagines a humorous lunar excursion. ### [Guy Bates Post](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/guy-bates-post) The speaker who praises Guy Bates Post. ### [Hanson F. Randle](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/hanson-f-randle) The narrator presents a comedic verse about Hanson F. Randle. ### [Wm. H. Rankin](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/wm-h-rankin) The narrator offers a lighthearted farewell and welcome to Rankin. ### [F. H. Rawson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/f-h-rawson) The speaker who admits fault for any disagreement between their stubs and Rawson's statements. ### [George W. Reed](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/george-w-reed) The speaker who contrasts the leisure of fuel men with the worry of common people. ### [Alexander H. Revell](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/alexander-h-revell) The narrator expresses a wish to be as young as Revell when reaching his age. ### [Wallace N. Robinson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/wallace-n-robinson) The narrator, who was not notified about the dollar giveaway. ### [J. J. Rosenthal](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/j-j-rosenthal) The speaker who observes and comments on J. J. Rosenthal's role at the Woods Theatre. ### [Benjamin Serlis](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/benjamin-serlis) The artist attempting to capture Benjamin Serlis. ### [Major A. A. Sprague](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/major-a-a-sprague) The narrator presents the bear's dying words as a whimsical rhyme. ### [Fred E. Sterling](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/fred-e-sterling) The narrator observes the audience's impatience and the manager's announcement of Fred Sterling's arrival. ### [Elliott G. Stevenson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/elliott-g-stevenson) The narrator presents a short, humorous epitaph-like poem about Elliott G. Stevenson. ### [J. M. Sullivan](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/j-m-sullivan) The narrator presents a limerick about J. M. Sullivan. ### [A. J. Thatcher](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/a-j-thatcher) The speaker who lost on the bout but met A. J. Thatcher. ### [Max Thorek](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/max-thorek) The speaker who laments having to scrounge for ticket money while others pay to see the doctor. ### [Edward J. Tobin](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/edward-j-tobin) The narrator presents a lighthearted, satirical take on Edward J. Tobin's educational philosophy. ### [Egbert Van Alstyne](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/egbert-van-alstyne) The narrator reflects on Egbert Van Alstyne's musical achievements. ### [Wm. F. Von Sennet](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/wm-f-von-sennet) The narrator presents a lighthearted, poetic sketch of Wm. F. Von Sennet. ### [John Wagner](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/john-wagner) The narrator poses a rhetorical question about the profitability of clean boxing. ### [William M. Walker](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/william-m-walker) The narrator presents a lighthearted verse about William M. Walker. ### [Augustus J. Wampler](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/augustus-j-wampler) The narrator describes Augustus J. Wampler's character and methods. ### [G. M. Weeks](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/g-m-weeks) The narrator introduces and describes G. M. Weeks. ### [Albert G. Welsh](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/albert-g-welsh) The speaker of the limerick, observing Albert G. Welsh's success. ### [Fred H. Wickett](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/fred-h-wickett) The speaker who regrets not heeding Wickett's investment advice. ### [F. M. Zeiler](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/f-m-zeiler) The narrator presents the verse about F. M. Zeiler. ### [The Phantom Sister](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/the-phantom-sister) The father who recounts his son's imaginary sister and the family's amused acceptance. ### [Dave’s Imperturbability](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/dave-s-imperturbability) The father who observes Davey's imperturbability and resolves to emulate it. ### [Apology](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/apology) The speaker who admits to avoiding work in favor of playful physical feats. ### [Home](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/home) The speaker of the poem, reflecting on the contrast between his past and present homes. ### [An Autobiography](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/an-autobiography) The narrator recounts his own life story, from birth to his career in journalism. ### [The Constant Jay](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/chapters/the-constant-jay) The recipient of Kaufman's relentless letters. ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/characters/unknown_narrator - Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se - All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_19_se/characters