Sunday, August 12, 2012

At Home in Kullorsuaq

As we are traveling up North along the west coast of Greenland, we are chasing the tail of the polar day. Two weeks ago, back in Uummannaq, we witnessed the first night since April (even though it lasted for only a few minutes). But here, in Kullorsuaq, in the Devil’s Thumb, the polar day still reigns.
Kullorsuaq has two close neighbors: Nuussuaq to the south, only 53 km from here, and Savissivik to the north, at the other end of Melville Bay. The 274 km long road there may be tricky. Savissivik will be our next destination, but for now we are enjoying the sunshine and the quiet time in Kullorsuaq along with its residents.

Lars Jensen, a son of the famous Nikolai Jensen, is a kayaker, hunter, artist and singer. He offered us many gifts during our stay in Kullorsuaq and eventually invited us over for a narwhale feast.

The one and a half year old grandson of Lars is staying at home with Jaakuaraq and the women.  Jaakuaraq was unfortunately injured during the recent storm awaiting for the hunters to return with a narwhale.

Children are the kings of Greenland. They rise above others and they are completely aware of their royal status.

Family stories and legends are being shared; in the humble light of this home they come to life again.

In the morning Lars says good-bye to us as we leave Kullorsuaq and head further north again. Our next stop is Savissivik - the most isolated settlement of the North.



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