1930s, small town, US 
 View into the inner lives of 4 residents of the town through their relationship with an enigmatic deaf mute 
 Young girl (autobiographical) coming to terms with demands of life, minding siblings and ultimately leaving education for employment to help support family. Has a developing interest (talent) in music and composition - seems most fully formed character 
 Black doctor conscious of racial discrimination against family and community 
 Drifter, fairground worker, drunk, dreaming of workers revolt 
 Cafe owner, enigmatic, phlegmatic, more an observer than participant 
 Struggle to find place in world, find companion to listen and understand