Robin Swift

Robin Swift is the main character and the perspective that the narrator focuses on outside of the Interludes. After being taken from his home in Canton as a child, Robin grew up learning how to act in whatever way will earn the favor of the white people around him. At first, he assumes that survival is the best and most important thing he can do. Over time, however, Robin comes to realize that protecting himself means he does not truly stand for anything. This lack of conviction comes to the forefront when he sees the devastation caused by opium in his homeland. This pushes Robin to tell Commissioner Lin the truth about the English Merchant’s duplicity and commit to Hermes' cause, even if he is terrified at the depths of what they will have to face.

Robin’s relationships dictate his worldview. His best friend Ramy...