Characters: There are no fixed story-characters in this poem. The main voice is the speaker, who observes and reflects. The “we” in the poem stands for humankind, the ordinary, emotional people who love the earth. The “band of rivals” represents playful human competition and desire. The “saints,” “Caesars,” and “reckless ones” stand for people who seek perfection, power, or escape. The limestone landscape itself acts like a character. It symbolizes humanity, warmth, and moral understanding.