Bill Pointer

Bill Pointer is the main character of the short story. With the exception of one instance, Pointer is referred to by his surname throughout the entirety of the short story. Nicola is the only person to call him by his first name on the day he is leaving the hotel. The narrator's employment of his surname over his first name illustrates the ways in which Pointer wants to see himself.

Pointer is the father of two sons, Richie and James. When his sons realize that Pointer has been "moping around the Somerset cottage," they urge him to take a trip (262). At their behest, he visits "the northeast coast of Unguja" and stays at Hotel Dahoma (262). For years, Pointer worked as a photojournalist. One photo won him attention, fame, and an indispensable reputation in the industry. Ever after, he devoted himself thoroughly to his job. He was rarely...