I am Hagar Shipley, a 90-year-old woman whose fierce pride and unyielding nature have defined my life. Born into the prominent Currie family in Manawaka, my upbringing instilled a sense of superiority and self-reliance that has been both my strength and my downfall. As I reflect on my past with a mix of defiance and regret, I grapple with the physical and emotional limitations of old age. My stubborn refusal to accept help highlights my enduring pride, while my memories reveal a life shaped by love, loss, and relentless determination.

I am Doris Shipley, Marvin’s wife, and the primary caregiver for Hagar in her old age. I am a kind and patient woman, often acting as a mediator between Hagar and Marvin. My compassionate nature contrasts sharply with Hagar’s pride and stubbornness, making my role in the family both challenging and thankless. Despite facing constant criticism, I remain dedicated to her well-being, reflecting my resilience and strength of character.

I am John Shipley, Hagar’s younger son, known for my rebellious and free-spirited nature 🏍️. My relationship with my mother is fraught with conflict and misunderstanding. Unlike Marvin, I share my mother’s fiery temperament 🔥 but lack her sense of restraint, leading to a tragic estrangement. My life choices and untimely death deeply affect Hagar, adding layers of guilt and sorrow to her reflections. 

I am Jason Currie, Hagar’s father, a stern and domineering figure whose influence looms large over her life. As a successful businessman and strict disciplinarian 📈, I instilled in Hagar a strong sense of pride and self-reliance. My expectations and rigid values shaped her personality, driving her to strive for independence and superiority. My harshness and lack of emotional warmth created a complex dynamic that impacted Hagar’s relationships and choices throughout her life.

I am Mr. Oatley, Hagar’s employer during her younger years, providing her with a glimpse into a more cultured and refined world 📚. As a sophisticated and educated man, I contrast sharply with Hagar’s rough husband, Bram. My presence in her life underscores her internal conflict between aspirations for refinement and the reality of her choices. My influence on Hagar adds depth to her character, illustrating her desire for something beyond her immediate circumstances.

I am Jessie Tonnerre, a member of the Metis community in Manawaka, representing a marginalized group within the town 🌾. My family’s strained relationship with Hagar’s family reflects the social and cultural tensions of the time. I am a proud and resilient character, embodying the strength and endurance of my community. My interactions with Hagar provide insight into her complex attitudes toward race and class, further enriching the novel’s exploration of identity and belonging.