The Weight of Longing

Iktsuarpok

After the death of their mother, siblings Christopher and Christine embark on a Christmas holiday to Goa to visit their maternal aunt, Esther, whom they loathe from their difficult teenage experiences. What was anticipated to be an awkward family gathering transforms into an enlightening journey of self-discovery. The three combat their mutual loss and grow closer in the days leading up to Christmas. Christopher finds solace in the poetic demeanor of Rahul who is Esther's neighbor's son while Christine battles her demons on the shores of Goa and Esther finds peace knowing that she is not alone in her old age. During this week, they encounter emotions that feel distinct and almost indescribable, echoing the concept of "Iktsuarpok." This narrative explores unspoken feelings, new friendships, a burdensome past, the passage of time, shattered hopes, and the reimagining of dreams