A grotesque family drama taking place on Christmas Eve. Three generations and a dog gather for an annual ritual that has lost all its meaning. Instead of harmony and joy, there is recrimination and grievances. Instead of family warmth and love, there is an overwhelming sense of hurt and loneliness. The author depicts the breakdown of the family through the erosion of language which no longer serves as a means of communication. But then a visit by a mystery guest has unexpected consequences.