“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 look into family history, which foreshadows a curse: women who sacrifice themselves for their families.

Trauma plays a significant role in their coping mechanisms and behaviors. Anastasia cannot discard any items from home, and she enjoys re-purposing them to honor her past. Lola 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 love, protection, and faith in something bigger than themselves.