Characters

The main characters of the short story “Bedtimes” by Tim Parks are Mary and Thomas, a married couple. The narrative hints that they have marital problems, but they do not openly discuss them, choosing to engage in a routine of avoiding each other. The story does not specify what these problems are. At one point, it is hinted that Thomas might be having an affair, or, at least, this is what Mary suspects. Although there are plenty of hints that show Mary might be right, the readers never find out for certain, as Thomas and Mary refuse to confront each other.

Sally and Mark, the couple’s children, are also present in the story. Their discussion at the end shows that they, too, have noticed that Mary and Thomas have serious problems in their marriage. 

You can read a full characterization of Mary and Thomas in the following pages.