Characters:

• W. B. Yeats: The central figure of the poem, Yeats. He is the poet whose death inspires reflection on the lasting impact of his poetry.
• The Poet’s Admirers/Readers: These are the people who keep Yeats’ poetry alive. They give new meanings to his words after his death.
• Auden (the Speaker): As the speaker of the poem, Auden reflects on Yeats’ life, death, and the enduring power of his poetry.
• The Earth: The earth is personified as the final resting place for Yeats. It symbolizes both the end of his life and the continuation of his influence.