Milo Hrma

Milo Hrma, pronounced (MEE-lohsh HUHR-mah), serves as the narrator and central figure of Closely Watched Trains. At twenty-two, Milo works as an apprentice train dispatcher in a rural railway station during the Nazi occupation of Czechoslovakia. His character is defined by his innocence, timidity, and sexual inexperience, which starkly contrast with the chaotic and brutal world surrounding him. Hrabal's portrayal of Milo highlights his ordinary, antiheroic qualities, which include a lack of family distinction, immaturity, and emotional responses that create the novella's comic yet poignant tone.

Throughout the story, Milo grapples with issues of gender identity and self-worth, particularly after his unsuccessful first sexual encounter, which leads to a suicide attempt. However, his life takes a pivotal turn when he joins the Czech resistance, aiming to destroy a Nazi ammunition train. This act of bravery ultimately answers his persistent question, "Am I a man?" and culminates in his tragic death, which underscores his growth and courage.

Milo's emotional journey is marked by his relationships with women. He harbors affection for Masha, a young conductor, and their connection begins with a simple kiss through a fence. However, before Milo can pursue this relationship further, he must first undergo a significant rite of passage with Viktoria Freie, a member of the Czech resistance, who provides him with a transformative sexual experience. This initiation alleviates his doubts and inspires him to embrace his role in the resistance.

His family background offers additional insight into his character. Milo's father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, each embody a light-hearted Czech approach to life, preferring leisure over labor. His mother, a nurturing figure, tends to Milo with care, such as polishing the buttons on his uniform.

Milo's life and narrative reflect the absurdities of his environment, akin to a Chaplin-esque character asserting humanity amidst adversity. His journey from innocence to heroism forms the emotional core of Hrabal's novella, intertwining themes of love and war.

Ladislav Hubika

Ladislav Hubika, whose name translates to "nice lips," is the womanizing senior dispatcher at the railway station. Renowned for his success with women, Hubika's nonchalant charm is a source of admiration and envy for Milo. His fearless and rebellious nature is exemplified in his infamous act of imprinting the station’s rubber stamps on the exposed buttocks of the female telegraphist, Virginia Svatá, leading to an investigation helmed by Councillor Zednicek.

Hubika's escapades and bold demeanor encourage Milo's own romantic aspirations, particularly towards Masha. Despite the investigation into his conduct, Hubika remains a key player in the conspiracy to sabotage the Nazi ammunition train, showing a deeper commitment to the resistance cause beneath his flippant exterior.

Lánsk

Lánsk, the stationmaster, is characterized by his ambition and pretentiousness. He cherishes his Venetian armchair, Persian carpet, and marble clock as symbols of status. As a hot-tempered and exacting authority figure, Lánsk channels his frustrations by shouting into a heating vent. While he outwardly conforms to Nazi regulations, he symbolically protests the occupation by replacing his prized German pigeons with Polish ones. His domestic life is equally tumultuous, evidenced by his contentious relationship with his wife, Mrs. Lánsk.

Virginia Svatá

Virginia Svatá, the lively station telegraphist, is entangled in Hubika's scandalous escapade but chooses not to incriminate him during the subsequent investigation. Her playful and carefree demeanor complements the station's eccentric atmosphere.

Masha

Masha, a young and spirited conductor, becomes Milo's romantic interest. Their mutual attraction is tenderly portrayed through their shared moment painting a fence. Despite their initial failed attempt at intimacy, Masha remains supportive of Milo, even after his suicide attempt, demonstrating her loyalty and affection. She plans to see Milo...