Sergei Cholakhyan

Nothing is easy for Torik, a shy orphan adopted by his aunt and uncle: he struggles to fit into village life, learn a craft, or find a wife. When Torik does fall in love – with Anjel, a local prostitute – he must face down the disapproval of his narrow-minded community and assert his right to happiness.

Set in the aftermath of the 1915 Armenian Genocide, a grief-stricken survivor arrives in a desolate Soviet Armenian village after losing his entire family. Burdened by trauma, he must navigate a bleak existence and find the will to heal, plant roots, and rebuild his life.

Following the death of his beloved but unfaithful wife, a sculptor creates a mysterious fountain upon her grave in her honour – one whose water only flows in his presence. As the years pass, his son becomes determined to discover its secret.