Father of nine children cannot find a job. Despite their aspirations, the children are encouraged by both parents to hold down menial jobs and contribute to the family expenses.
Ishimura
Ishimura's wife
Kiichi, first son
Genji, second son
Noboru, third son
Eisaku, fourth son
Kokichi, fifth son
Hide, first daughter
Ogawa - the teacher
Mitsuko
Kiichi's goroup leader
Ishimura's fellow worker
Genji's fellow worker