"Once They’re Gone, They Keep Going" is a poignant coming-of-age story about a young man named Mattie and his complex relationship with his mother, Sylvia Drew. Set in a small town with a backdrop of steel mills, the narrative explores themes of longing, loss, and the search for identity.

Sylvia, a former actress turned high school English teacher, struggles to raise Mattie alone after his father leaves when he is just two years old. Despite her outwardly tough demeanor and fiery language, Sylvia is filled with unspoken guilt and regret about the life she leads and the one she could have had. Her love for Elvis Presley’s music becomes a rare source of joy and connection between her and Mattie.

Mattie, navigating his teenage years with few friends and brief romantic flings, dreams of becoming a lawyer and fighting for civil rights in the South. However, Sylvia dismisses his aspirations, viewing them as a betrayal of her own dreams and a dangerous path influenced by her estranged family of lawyers.

A critical night unfolds just before Christmas when Sylvia decides to attend an impromptu party. There, Mattie meets Nicky Schmidt, a college professor with a past connection to Sylvia. The evening takes a dramatic turn, revealing deep-seated tensions and unresolved emotions. A physical altercation between Mattie and Nicky exposes the fragile dynamics within their lives, leaving Mattie to confront harsh truths about his family and his future.

The story concludes with Sylvia’s departure for New York, seeking a fresh start and leaving Mattie to grapple with his questions about her choices and his own place in the world. Over time, their infrequent meetings highlight a persistent emotional distance, symbolizing the enduring impact of Sylvia’s decisions on their lives.

Mir-Yashar Seyedbagheri’s tale is a bittersweet exploration of familial bonds, the desire for reinvention, and the often painful journey toward self-discovery.