Taloyoak can be a tongue-twister, southerner says

To celebrate Nunavut Day, Nunatsiaq News invited readers to share what makes their corner of the territory special to them.

Roger Clowater

I have only been in six different hamlets in Nunavut. So, when I am asked the question, “What makes a particular part of the territory special?” I have a different response for each of them.

Where I find myself currently the question, “What do I love about it?” is easier and feels like less of a competition.

Like most hamlets the pronunciation of Taloyoak is not an easy name to wrap your tongue around especially for someone from the south. I could fool my southern friends who have no exposure to the proper pronunciations of communities like Gjoa Haven, Kugluktuk, or Sanikiluaq, to name a few.

After considerable attempts, corrections, and mispronunciations I think I now have a reasonable representation. Taloyoak.

I am particularly moved by the degree of friendliness in my interaction with the young people in Taloyoak.

When I am out in the hamlet, walking around or exploring the land and I come upon a group of young people it’s there.

One of the first questions: What’s your name? It’s a sincere question; it doesn’t feel like an attempt to make a conversation. In my opinion it is meant to make a real connection.

This question exudes sincerity and expresses the charm of Taloyoak. I like it.

The next time my friends ask me what I love about Nunavut I will tell them the sincerity I feel from speaking with the youth.

Roger Clowater lives in Taloyoak.