Narwhal Spirit

Wakeham Bay (Kangiqsujuaq) and Kuujjuaq, Nunavik.

Every morning, I looked out at the bay and couldn’t help but notice what appeared like a giant seal floating on icy waters. At different times of day, the community’s surrounding hills seemed to transform. Then, from what I first interpreted as a lounging seal, I noticed what looked like a tusk protruding from the creature’s head. A narwhal appeared.

My eyes watered from the subarctic winds, which swirled around playfully, teasing with the idea of an outdoor adventure. One day, but not today. I thanked the narwhal spirit, taking care to hide my face from the onrushing chill as I turned around to make my way back to the coziness and warmth of the inn.