The Speaker

The only character in the poem is the speaker. Though various mythological figures are referred to in "the Garden," the only person who actually appears is the speaker himself. This is just as he wants it; he completely rejects all forms of relationship building with other people, including romance and social connection. The ultimate isolation depicted in the poem creates some difficulties in characterizing the speaker. Certainly, he is an intelligent, insightful character, in spite – or perhaps even because – of his unusual ideas about interpersonal interaction.

Apollo

The Greek god of literature, art, and music, Apollo was characterized as a handsome young man who carried a bow. He pursued the nymph Daphne, hoping to have sex with her, but she rejected him and fled. After she turned into a laurel tree, Apollo made the laurel his symbol and crowned himself with it.

Daphne

A beautiful nymph with...