Who is Trachim? What is significant about his death? Why do the people of Trachimbrod celebrate his death every year? How does his death impact Jonathan's history? What is the significance of Trachimday? Why do the celebrants throw sacks into the Brod on Trachimday? What do the strings on Trachimday signify?

Who is Yankel? Why has Yankel lost the respect of his friends and neighbors? What is the significance of the note Yankel always carries with him? Why does Yankel write his life history on the ceiling of his room? Is Yankel Brod's father? How did Yankel come to raise Brod on his own?

Who is Brod? What is the significance of her name? Why does Jonathan feel the need to relate Brod's story? How does Brod's story impact Safran's? What does Brod consider her rape? Why does Brod consider this rape? What is...