Characters

The most important characters in the short story “Cold Calling” by Chuck Palahniuk are Bill and Samantha. The other characters (co-workers, school mates, potential customers, Samantha's father) are mostly relevant for establishing the social setting of the story.

Bill is the main character and the narrator of the short story. His characterization is conveyed both directly (self-characterization) and indirectly, through Bill’s actions and attitude.

Samantha Wells is a secondary character in the short story. She is the girl who Bill talks to over the phone and who buys several of his mops.

You can find their full characterization in the next pages.