Hamza
Hamza is the protagonist on the poem Hamza. He is described repeatedly with the adjective 'ordinary,' for example as 'just an ordinary man,' and in the title 'Hamza-the-ordinary.' This is almost like a warrior title, yet instead of "the great" or "the brave," the adjective 'ordinary,' gives the everyday-man an example of bravery in a form very much like themselves, normal yet determined.
He is 'sixty-five,' and 'weighs / heavy like a rock on his own back,' a simile. He is also described as 'always secure in his determination,' just 'as he always was.' Therefore his character is well-balanced, level-headed and consistent.
Earth
Earth is portrayed as a character in Labour Pains. It 'shivers with love,' as well as 'the pain of giving birth.' Earth, or more precisely, the 'land' of Palestine, is also portrayed as 'a woman,' in the poem Hamza, which not only indicates the determination to live and thrive that woman need to decide to show in this context, but also gives a human nature to the earth and land. This personification reveals the inhuman view those in power have of the people in the land, and connects nature with people, showing their responsibility and their need.
