Protagonist: The protagonist is Howard Barker, a middle-aged, middle-class man who is deeply insecure and struggling with his identity. He's a somewhat unsuccessful writer, unhappy in his marriage, and longing for something more in life.
Antagonist: The antagonist is a bit more complex. There isn't a single villain in the story in the traditional sense. Here are some possibilities:
* Howard's own insecurities and self-doubt: This is the most powerful antagonist, driving him to make poor decisions and fueling his unhappiness.
* His wife, Helen: While not truly malicious, Helen represents a stable, mundane life that Howard finds stifling. She represents the limitations and expectations he feels trapped by.
* The "Metaphor" itself: The story's title refers to a short story Howard wrote, but it also becomes a metaphor for his own life. The elusive nature of the perfect "metaphor" mirrors his struggle to find meaning and purpose.
Important Note: "The Metaphor" is an exploration of internal conflict and the challenges of finding meaning in life. It's less about a traditional "good versus evil" struggle and more about the complex internal struggles of a single man.