Why You Keep Things follows the stories of Anastasia and Lola, a mother and daughter who struggle with their relationship, self worth, and identity. Their story begins with a vague history that sets the tone for their lives: women who sacrifice themselves for their families, or for other’s expectations of who they should be. Trauma plays a big role in their behaviors and coping mechanisms. Anastasia hoards to remember the past. Lola drinks, experiments with drugs and engages in reckless behavior to forget about present situations. While Lola struggles to find her place in life and within herself, her mother struggles to fit into American life and culture. Both women are forced to connect with each other on a deeper level when a neighborhood tragedy occurs. Throughout the story, there is a magical force, guiding them towards a love, protection, and faith in something bigger than themselves.