According to Shakespeare's Macbeth, 
Life "is a tale
Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury,
Signifying nothing."

First, some announcements: In February, on Saturday the 28th at 2pm, Synchronized Chaos Magazine partners with the Hayward Lit Hop to co-host the Hayward Coffee Hop.

Join with us to hear poems and sample the wares of four different local coffee shops in downtown Hayward, California (Zocalo’s, Snappy’s, Concha Dreams, and the Old City Roastery). Advance tickets required, reserve your spot here.

In March we will have a presence at the Association of Writing Programs conference in Baltimore which will include a free public offsite reading at Urban Reads on Friday, March 6th at 6 pm. All are welcome to attend!

So far the lineup for our reading, the Audible Browsing Experience, includes Elwin Cotman, Katrina Byrd, Terry Tierney, Terena Bell, Shakespeare Okuni, and our editor, Cristina Deptula. If there’s time, an open mic will follow.

Poet Marin Angel, of Finland and Bulgaria, is forming a new, vast, international poetry society, the Poetic Political Party for Transparency, that will publish books and which seeks editors and writers.

Published poet and contributor Tao Yucheng is still hosting a poetry contest, open to all readers of Synchronized Chaos Magazine.

Synchronized Chaos Poetry Contest: We seek short, powerful, imaginative, and strange poetry. While we welcome all forms of free verse and subject matter, we prefer concise work that makes an impact.

Guidelines: Submit up to five poems per person to taoyucheng921129@proton.me. Each poem should not exceed one page (ideally half a page or less). All styles and themes welcome. Deadline for submissions will be in early March.

Prizes: First Place: $50 Second Place: $10, payable via online transfer. One Honorable Mention. Selected finalists will be published in Synchronized Chaos Magazine.

We’re also announcing the release of contributor Brian Barbeito’s new book The Book of Love and Mourning.

From Brian: These prose poems and photos are a journey that celebrate memory and colour and the near and far. Please travel along and explore both the written word and the visual narrative. The content will include but not be limited to, forest trails, meadows and skies, grasshoppers and wild clovers, electric light, and various seasons. And at times we will dream, reminisce, and wonder about the world, its form, content, and continual movement. 

The Book of Love and Mourning can be ordered here.

Now, for February’s second issue! This issue, Sound and Fury, Signifying Everything, as opposed to Macbeth’s feelings of meaninglessness, points to the importance of individual people and relationships, to ordinary settings and personal life stories.

Dmitriy Kogan asserts the value of ordinary words from understandable poets. Mykyta Ryzhykh’s micropoems hit on different nerves: money, guilt, tradition, speech, silence. Christopher Bernard’s first installment of Senor Despair explores the search for hope and meaning in a complex world.

Terry Trowbridge’s speakers inhabit and listen to time, rather than shouting their existences into the world. Mahbub Alam’s speaker slowly awakens from a deep sleep. On the other hand, Aurelia Preskill’s speaker desires to fully inhabit her universe and her own body. Michael Todd Steffen’s pieces concern observation: seeing our world, and the instability of what we see. Janaea Rose Lyn takes us on a poetic journey from grief to cognition to embodiment and, finally, to translucence. Taro Aizu finds gentle peace in everyday blessings and beauty. Jumanazarova Mohlaroyim Islombek qizi explicates the deep and stormy inner world behind Said Ahmad’s ironically titled novel Silence. Timothee Bordenave explores the emotional territory of pleasure, escape, rebirth, and devotion.

J.J. Campbell depicts the debris of soul damage from a long and weary life, but continues living, as he has little choice. Mahbub Alam evokes the solemn weariness of insomnia in an elegant poem. Taylor Dibbert reflects on turning points in a relationship that went south. John Edward Culp’s work quietly dares without becoming showy, as a person eases into the risk of loving and being loved. Kalipada Ghosh celebrates a gentle and inspiring love. Dr. Fernando Martinez Alderete presents the comfort and care of a steady, long-term love. Lan Xin’s love poetry carries a spiritual bent, drawing on metaphors of angels and ancient Chinese temples. Cai Zhenyuan ties love into universal compassion and making moral choices.

Alexa Grospe speaks to the visceral pain of someone struggling to be seen and loved in their ordinary humanness. Jacques Fleury advises readers to become comfortable and at home in their own identities and bodies. Eva Lianou Petropoulou reminds humans not to lose sight of our hearts and creativity in the age of artificial intelligence.

Bill Tope and Doug Hawley contribute a co-written bleak, funny, and tender short story that highlights the humanity not only of disabled people, but all those who age and change with time. Noah Berlatsky comments with humor on physical aging. Dilafro’z Sultanova aspires to health and wellness in her advertising jingle to the Central Asian health drink Beleever. Diyora Abduolimova and Jurayeva Aziza Rakhmatovna discusses the importance of and methods for inclusive education for children with disabilities.

Shoshana Vegh speaks to a mythical love that endures through time. Mesfakus Salahin promises his commitment to his loved one throughout his life journey. Jamal Garougar affirms a quiet, humble love. Mandy Pistikou’s poetry outlines a romantic relationship that grows and deepens with time. Sabo Jurayeva urges people to marry for the right reasons, building strong families on love and commitment rather than infatuation.

Iroda Abdusamiyeva pays tribute to her kind, tenderhearted mother as Ibodimova Lobar Muzzafar qizi mourns the loss of her loving mother. Eshmatova Charos offers her love and respect to her mother through a prayer. Akramova Sarvinoz pays tribute to the love and strength of her parents. Dildorakhon Tursunboyeva tenderly expresses her love for her dear mother.

Jerrice J. Baptiste’s colorful artwork celebrates the joy of female friendship and sisterhood. Graciela Noemi Villaverde highlights the transformative power of both friendship and love. Sayani Mukherjee explores interpersonal love through the lenses of memory, religion, myth, and culture. Hanaan Abdelkader Ashour honors the love she shared with those who are departed and feels their continued presence.

Safarqulova Iroda and Maja Milojkovic celebrates the beauty of their heritages and mother tongues. Abdusaidova Jasmina expresses her pure joy and pride in her Uzbek homeland. Isaac Dominion Aju’s personal essay describes his journey towards accepting, creating, and claiming his identity as a Black African man. Normuminova Charos Shamshoshodovna looks deep in her heart and soul to find the meaning of “homeland.”

Halilova Rukshona Abdufattohovna honors the scientific and philosophical legacy of ancient scholar Abu Nasr al-Farabi. Sevara Jo’raqulova highlights the love for Uzbek heritage, nature, and culture in Alexander Faynberg’s poetry.

Duane Vorhees also addresses nature as a theme, speaking to spring’s regrowth in a natural, unsentimental way. Aziza Xazamova shares fun and colorful winter memories. Christina Chin celebrates the clear, pure beauty of winter. Ananya S. Guha’s poetry speaks to natural cycles and resilience, places that keep a hold on people even after they leave. Yongbo Ma constructs an interior landscape built through a variety of objects, places and natural creatures: rocks, tadpoles, frogs, a person’s hometown.

Brian Michael Barbeito’s nature-based prose is quietly luminous, reflective, and tender, reminding us to see the grace in the everyday. Soumen Roy compares the ebbs and flows of relationships to waves at sea. Dr. Jernail S. Anand’s essay highlights the cosmic and natural power balances of the universe.

G’afforova Hadichaxon Abduhamid qizi also writes from a wide perspective, addressing the importance of addressing air pollution on systemic as well as individual levels. Jalolova Charos weighs various sustainable design models for our world’s growing cities. Mamatraimova Khadicha Eshali qizi discusses toponymy, the science of naming places and landforms, in a certain area of Uzbekistan. Dildora Xo’jyozova appreciates Uzbekistan’s rich and multilayered history and culture. Shahnoza Ochildiyeva celebrates the literary legacy of Uzbek writer and social theorist Chol’pon.

Egamberdiyeva Diloromxon highlights the importance of Uzbeks’ understanding their nation’s constitution. Jumayev Sanjar Ilyos ogli also explores the wisdom and importance of the Uzbek constitution in shaping the country. Bai Gengsheng’s poetry, translated by Lan Xin, highlights the enduring power of fortitude and wisdom in China’s cultural heritage. Zubayda Tursunboyeva illuminates themes in Uzbek poetess Zulfiya’s work: love, family, patriotism, and peace. Shermamatova Kamola Azizbek qizi discusses ways to incorporate epic world literature into the classroom.

Razzokova Feruza’s essay discusses how language and culture influence emotional expression. Mahmudjonova Rushonabonu outlines the global importance of the English language. Qobiljonova Hurixon compares advantages of blended and traditional education for those learning English as a second language. Sultonova Shahlo Baxtiyor qizi discusses ways to overcome cognitive and psychological barriers to language learning. Nazarova Gulbaxor Azimjon qizi discusses the impact of bilingualism on personality.

Sultonmurodova Aqida identifies and offers solutions to problems students face with learning foreign languages. Shodiqulova Dilorom Niymatulla qizi highlights the value of teachers’ classroom preparation and evaluation tasks in helping students learn languages and other subjects. Mahamqulova Ruhshona Rustam qizi discusses the cultural and psychological benefits of joint educational programs, where a student may receive academic credit from institutions in different countries. Mominova Nozimakhon highlights the many ways education benefits society at large.

Xolmurotova Gulzoda outlines roles of digital platforms in language learning. Jumanazarova Nafisa discusses roles for artificial intelligence in learning English. Mamatova Mahbuba Abdulboqi qizi addresses the proper pedagogical conditions for using project-based technology in teaching literature. To’g’ilova Dinora shows how mobile apps can help students learn the Korean language. Abduhamidova Nihola shares methodological foundations for multimedia tools in language lessons. Madinaxon Tu’ychiyeva explores the efficacy of digitally based learning. Olimova Marjona Ubaydullayevna discusses how artificial intelligence can help with language learning.

To’laganova Muxlisa G’ulomovna discusses the role of artificial intelligence in teaching critical thinking skills. Ne’matullayeva Mukhlisa Sherali kizi outlines ways college professors can encourage students to develop their critical thinking skills. Zamira Moldiyeva Bahodirovna highlights the importance of teaching critical thinking skills in higher education.

Erkinov Dilmurod Adham o’g’li points out linguistic conventions in scientific writing. Azamova Kumushoy Akramjon qizi highlights the role of scientific research in modern society. Bafoyev Mirzabek Mirvohidovich reflects on how medical diagnostics has advanced and become more refined with time.

Saida Turdiboyeva reflects on how artificial intelligence is changing our lives. Azimov Mirsaid Salimovich highlights the growing importance of computer code in global infrastructure. Nematova Zarina Ochilboyevna points to the emerging trend of digitization in the labor market. Toshbekova Nozima offers suggestions to address youth unemployment. Abdiyeva Mahbuba Rahmiddinova advocates for increased attention to women’s entrepreneurship as a pathway to economic development and empowerment. Zarina Yorboboyeva discusses ways to improve strategic management in business enterprises in Central Asia. Shonazarov Shohjaxon outlines advantages and disadvantages of modern consumer credit.

J.K. Durick’s pieces speak to automation and modern life, the slow erasure of the self. Bozorboyeva Nasiba Ergashboy qizi urges wisdom and foresight in the development and rollout of artificial intelligence technology. Mo’minova Rukhshona highlights how science should not be separated from ethics.

Gaurav Ojha encourages revolutionaries and activists to keep up their spirit and idealism. Norman J. Olson’s drawing conveys the current atmosphere of Minneapolis. Patricia Doyne highlights inconsistencies in American public policy regarding firearms and cultural violence. Kujtim Hajdari laments the destruction and sorrow war causes.

Mauro Montacchiesi highlights themes of moral and psychological choices in the here and now in Dr. Jernail Singh’s book Beyond Heaven, Beyond Hell. James Tian excoriates religion enforced through fear and moral blackmail. Mohammad Sedigh Haghighi reminds us that meaning cannot be outsourced, we are all tasked with a long and personal quest to find what matters.

Angelina Muniz Huberman reviews Beatriz Saavedra Gastelum’s new book Alfonso Reyes: Cartography of the Spirit and the Word, which dramatizes estrangement and exile. Shammah Jeddypaul’s piece evokes the dislocation of trauma through a narrator whose situation we gradually begin to grasp. David Kokoette’s raw, furious, and wounded poetry looks at systemic and personal violation and invasion.

Luis Cuauhtemoc Berriozabal’s work probes spaces where meaning becomes unreliable and sensory overload collapses into numbness. Grzegorz Wroblewski’s asemic scrawls reflect intuitive thought maps or emotional streams of consciousness. Mark Young’s pieces feel geometric, like a meditation on latency. Rus Khomutoff contributes a chant, a waking dream, a data-streamed prayer. Poet Yongbo Ma interviews writer Jeffrey Cyphers Wright about his fun, freeflowing, and experimental poetry craft.

Ruziyeva Nigina Sanat kizi delves into the moral and spiritual aspects of O’tkir Hoshimov’s work. Jakhongir Nomozov interviews Azerbaijani poet, translator, and journalist Aysel Khanlargizi Safarli on beauty, meaning, and spiritual understanding in her work.

Sevinch Botirjonova explicates the power of words in an increasingly connected world. Stephen Jarrell Williams speaks to memory, faith, and history. Nozima Gofurova highlights the thoughtful literary criticism of Ozod Sharafiddinov and how he examined literature as a force to mold and inspire society as well as elegant entertainment. Jumayev Sanjar Ilyos ogli celebrates the many roles of Uzbekistan’s young people in shaping the country’s future.

Dustmurodova Marjona Doniyorovna illuminates the value of lifelong learning as Türkan Ergör urges us to forget past sorrows and grudges and Opeyemi Oluwayomi asserts his steady belief in the value and beauty of tomorrow.

We hope that this issue helps you keep growing, thinking, and believing in our shared future.

An Analysis of Aleksandr Faynberg’s Poem “Motherland”

Abstract:

This article is devoted to the analysis of Aleksandr Faynberg’s poems dedicated to Uzbekistan, particularly the poem “Motherland.” The study reveals the poet’s loyalty and deep love for Uzbek culture and nature. The simplicity of people’s lives and the depiction of national values occupy a central place in the poems. Faynberg’s creative approach based on realism, as well as the role of his translations in creating a cultural bridge between Uzbek and Russian literature, are thoroughly analyzed.

Key words: Aleksandr Faynberg, Uzbekistan, image of the Motherland, nature, poem, analysis, culture, national values.

Aleksandr Arkadyevich Faynberg was born on November 2, 1939, in the city of Tashkent. His parents moved to Tashkent from Novosibirsk two years before his birth. His father, Arkadiy Lvovich Faynberg (1891–1971), originally from Gatchina, graduated from the Institute of Technology and worked as a chief engineer at a спирт factory. His mother, Anastasia Aleksandrovna (born in 1904), was born in Moscow and worked as a machinist at the same factory.

After finishing a seven-year school, Arkadiy entered the Tashkent Topography Technical School. After graduating, he served in the military in Tajikistan. In 1965, he graduated from Tashkent State University, studying by correspondence at the Faculty of Journalism within the Faculty of Philology, and worked for a student newspaper.

Faynberg’s poems about the Motherland were compared with similar works by other Uzbek poets. The poet’s contribution to Uzbek culture and the literary environment, as well as his poetic approach and imagery, were analyzed comparatively. This analysis helps to identify the uniqueness of his creative work and his place in the literary process of Uzbekistan.

In the poem “Motherland,” the image of the land is depicted with great intensity. Faynberg portrays his homeland vividly through images of a sunny land, rectangular fields, mountain ranges, roads, and poplar trees standing like domes. These descriptions reflect the geographical and aesthetic features of Uzbekistan:

From sunny rectangular fields

To mountain ranges stretching afar,

Roads spinning like a whirlwind,

Dome-like poplars standing in rows.

In the opening lines, the diversity of Uzbekistan’s climate and relief is emphasized. The fields symbolize cultivated lands, while the mountain ranges represent the country’s mountainous regions.

The poem contains real-life experience. The author poetically reflects his youth spent measuring land:

I walked the fields step by step,

Carrying a theodolite, measuring the plots.

These lines recall Faynberg’s engagement with engineering and topography.

The poet also depicts the simplicity of Uzbek life, highlighting the openness and hospitality of the people:

I drank chalob in clay-plastered houses,

Courtyards without doors, always open.

At the end of the poem, feelings of national pride and a strong bond with the Motherland are powerfully expressed:

A kind land. Here lies my lineage —

My soil and fate are in Uzbekistan.

The line “Oh, Europe! I do not even know you” reflects the poet’s cultural identification. He rejects the West because his true homeland is Uzbekistan.

The poem “Motherland” is one of the most expressive examples of Faynberg’s creativity, embodying his national identity, devotion to his homeland, and life experience. His poetry is realistic, profound, and imbued with national spirit.

Another poem vividly portrays everyday life:

It brings peace to the soul

When you gaze at nature’s face.

Stone huts, clay-plastered roofs

Run down toward the riverbanks.

The opening lines depict the calm and beauty of the homeland’s nature, evoking a sense of peace and comfort. Details such as stone huts and clay roofs reflect the simplicity and naturalness of rural life.

The image of the teahouse keeper appears as a symbolic figure who satisfies people’s daily needs and provides spiritual comfort. The teahouse is portrayed not merely as a place to drink tea, but as a center of cultural communication.

The same shelves, the same plates,

A generous table on the low dining stand.

These lines present traditional aspects of Uzbek life: cooking by the bride, shelves, dishes, and the tablecloth. They reflect the continuity and antiquity of folk traditions.

In the conclusion, the poet nostalgically recalls the past:

I remember it all —

Snowy mountains. This beautiful life.

From a linguistic perspective, expressive imagery directs the reader’s attention to the peaceful rhythm of village life. The phrase “It brings peace to the soul” conveys the spiritual influence of nature, while “the blue light shining in a teacup” symbolizes the reflection of the sky in tea.

Faynberg’s works offer a realistic, sincere, and profound artistic expression of Uzbekistan’s life and culture. These poems not only glorify national values but also serve as a vivid example of cultural dialogue and interethnic cooperation.

Conclusion

Aleksandr Faynberg’s poem “Motherland” expresses his deep love for Uzbekistan, national values, and the beauty of simple life. Through a realistic style and personal experience, the poet enriches his works both emotionally and thematically.

This study confirms Faynberg’s contribution to Uzbek culture and highlights his role as a cultural bridge between Uzbek and Russian literature. The artistic and linguistic richness of his poems creates a poetic image of Uzbek life.

In the future, further linguistic and cultural research into Faynberg’s other works and translations may deepen understanding of his international influence and strengthen intercultural literary relations.

References:

Keldiyorova, S. J. “Aleksandr Faynberg and Uzbekistan: The Image of the Motherland in the Poet’s Poems.”

Writers’ Union of Uzbekistan. (2021). Aleksandr Faynberg: An Ode to the Draft. Tashkent: Literature.

Dinara, O. (2024). A Look at the Creative Life of Aleksandr Arkadyevich Faynberg. Modern Education and Research, 1(2), 50–52.

Jumaniyazova, L. S. (2023). Linguistic Analysis of Aleksandr Faynberg’s Poems. SCHOLAR, 1(22), 20–23.

Sevara Joraqulova is a motivated and talented student specializing in native language and literature while actively developing her English language skills. She holds a B+ level certificate in her native language and a B2 level certificate in English.

She is deeply involved in extensive research in the field of literature, studying literary works, analyzing texts, and expanding her academic knowledge. Alongside her literary studies, she consistently works on improving her English communication and academic skills.

Currently, Sevara is focused on self-development, academic excellence, and strengthening both her native language and English proficiency to achieve high results and build a successful future career in education and linguistics.

When the Candy Is Picked Up

When a piece of candy is picked up,

Sweetness at once becomes the theme of the world.

One person is listening to two others talking:

“You absolutely must submit!

Otherwise bad things will happen—

To yourself and to those around you.

It’s very unlucky…”

Another person says:

“You must be devout!

Not a single detail can be wrong,

Otherwise it’s a sin,

And even your next life will be bad…”

The first person speaks again:

“You must follow!

By following, you can avoid misfortune.

The whole family must follow—

This is redemption and hope…”

The other person adds again:

“You must place its image everywhere!

As if it must watch over us at all times,

To prevent us from failing to keep in step—

With what has been prescribed.

The meaning of this world has already been set—

It lies precisely in this…”

The listener grows frightened,

And quickly goes up to ask them:

“This gang you’re talking about is terrifying,

And so evil.

Where’s it?

Tell me, so I can avoid it.”

The two of them widen their eyes,

Facing him with horrifying expressions and words:

“What gang?

What terror?

We’re talking about faith.

We’re talking about religion.

This is humanity’s true good and hope.

Do you understand?

You’re really pitiful—

One look and it’s clear you have no faith…”

PEDAGOGICAL CONDITIONS FOR USING PROJECT-BASED TECHNOLOGY IN TEACHING LITERATURE

Mamatova Mahbuba Abdulboqi qizi Master’s Degree Student (2nd Year) Namangan State Pedagogical Institute.

Abstract

This article provides a theoretical and methodological analysis of the pedagogical conditions for using project-based technology in the process of teaching literature. The didactic potential of project-based learning in developing students’ independent thinking, creative abilities, and literary–aesthetic competence is examined. Particular attention is paid to the organizational, methodological, and psychological factors necessary for the effective implementation of project activities in literature classes. The study substantiates the alignment of project-based technology with the competency-based approach and contemporary educational requirements.

Keywords: project-based learning, literature education, pedagogical conditions, creative competence, independent learning, interdisciplinary integration.

Introduction

In modern education, increasing students’ learning autonomy and transforming them into active participants in the educational process has become a priority. In literature education, special emphasis is placed on developing students’ aesthetic perception, literary thinking, and communicative competence. In this context, project-based technology emerges as an effective innovative pedagogical approach that enhances the quality and effectiveness of literature instruction.

Project-based learning enables students to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical activities through independent inquiry and creative tasks. This approach contributes to the development of critical thinking skills and encourages learners to express their personal interpretations of literary works.

● Didactic Potential of Project-Based Technology in Literature EducationProject-based technology is oriented toward solving problem-based tasks and fostering active cognitive engagement. In literature classes, project activities promote in-depth analysis of literary texts, exploration of character systems, interpretation of authorial ideas, and the formulation of individual viewpoints.

Through project work, students engage in presentations, creative writing, dramatizations, and research-oriented tasks. As a result, their literary knowledge becomes systematized, and their independent learning competence is significantly enhanced.

●Pedagogical Conditions for Implementing Project-Based Technology Project activities should be designed in accordance with clearly articulated educational goals. In literature teaching, project objectives must focus on developing students’ literary thinking and reinforcing theoretical knowledge through practical application.

●Consideration of Students’ Individual CharacteristicsThe selection of project topics should take into account students’ age, cognitive abilities, and interests. This approach increases motivation and ensures active participation in project activities.

●Creation of a Motivational Learning Environment

The effective use of project-based learning requires a supportive and motivating educational environment. Problem-based questions, real-life contexts, and creative tasks play a crucial role in stimulating learners’ interest.

●Teacher’s Role as Facilitator and Advisor

Within project-based learning, the teacher acts not as a controller but as a facilitator and consultant who guides students throughout the learning process. This role fosters learners’ independence and responsibility.

●Integration of Individual and Collaborative Activities

Project-based activities should combine individual and group work to develop cooperation, communication skills, and a sense of responsibility among students.

●Ensuring Interdisciplinary Integration

Project-based technology allows literature education to be integrated with history, art, and linguistics. Such interdisciplinary connections contribute to the formation of holistic knowledge and broaden students’ perspectives

.●Systematic Assessment and Reflection

Clear assessment criteria and reflective practices are essential components of project-based learning. Evaluation of project outcomes and self-assessment activities help students analyze their learning experiences and improve future performance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the use of project-based technology in teaching literature plays a significant role in fostering students’ creative and critical thinking skills. The effectiveness of this approach largely depends on the proper organization of pedagogical conditions. Project-based learning enhances the quality of literature education and aligns it with contemporary educational standards and competency-based requirements.

References:

Polat, E. S. Project-Based Learning and Its Didactic Potential in Education. Moscow: Academy, 2019.

Azizkhojayeva, N. N. Pedagogical Technologies and Teaching Excellence. Tashkent: TDPU, 2018.

Ishmuhamedov, R. J. Modern Educational Technologies. Tashkent, 2017.

Karimov, S. Methods of Teaching Literature. Tashkent: O‘qituvchi, 2020.

“All Encompassing”

1.)

As age cleans me out

day and night tasting

sugar and icing cakes

chocolate malts and lipstick kisses

my memories mounting horses

galloping across fields and countries

I laugh gritting my teeth

wailing against walls and doors unopening…

2.)

My mother cooks in a hot kitchen

my father hammering nails of fire

wars mounting tanks and hollow ships

full of men in metal suits and swimming trunks

fishing for good against wrong

ideas changing through centuries

waking up childhood dreams

with the sun rising through a rainbow window.

3.)

We will die fat and boneless

in our conclusions

not knowing the whole truth

and the endlessness of shame

some grabbing ahold of God

as He lets us enter the Light

the stars not enough

for all the dark hearts.

4.)

But God’s heart all encompassing.

————————————————————–

happiness

you haven’t lived until

you have cleaned the

shit off of your 72 year

old mother

the same mother that

wondered why you

used your real name

the first time you got

paid for your writing

the same mother that

made you walk on a

broken foot for a week

because she didn’t

believe you

as i reached for another

wet wipe my mother

asked if i was happy

with my life

i told her i have never

found happiness in my

fifty years on this planet

and it’s not that i think

it’s not possible, just life

sucks sometimes and

sometimes that suck

doesn’t know when

to stop

these are the nights i

dream about being eight

years old wishing i could

tie a knot

i still remember that tree

in the backyard, and the

ladder and an old rope

—————————————————————–

look forward

this beautiful woman

believes we are going

to have a great life

together one day

i keep telling her

she might want to

get that life started

way sooner than she’s

expecting since i am

much older and closer

to death

she says i should be

positive and look

forward to the future

i always laugh at that

explain to her i have

been poor almost longer

than she’s been alive

that will do some damage

to your soul that never

can be repaired

—————————————————————-

an old stash

one of those nights

you put on coltrane

and start looking

through the drawers

hoping to find an

old stash that has

been long gone

it’s always a woman

always what could

have been

always a night of

lust in chicago oh

so many years ago

my dead friends

are starting to greet

me in my dreams

now

i want to believe

i know what that

means although

i’m pretty sure it

is only wishful

thinking

perhaps the lesbian

i dated at 23 was

right

loneliness clings

to me like an old

coat

too thin for the

winter and much

too much in the

summer

————————————————–

fast asleep

nine degrees at three

in the morning

the only woman that

wants you is fast asleep

547 miles away

betting on yet another

super bowl that doesn’t

have any of the teams

i would want to see

fingers are crossed

but as usual

i’m guessing somehow

i will get three out of

four

while that may help

you pass a test

it doesn’t do much

of anything when

gambling

the good life is a

fucking myth your

father died chasing

without even knowing

he had it

somewhere kerouac

is laughing at you

mumbling something

about this fucker just

ain’t ever going to

understand i guess

the easiest bet of all

is simply understanding

the fool is in the mirror

——————————————————————–

counterclockwise

i dated a woman with

a three legged dog

when i was younger

that dog was way

cooler than i was

so we didn’t last

that long

she did teach me

to stir my coffee

counterclockwise

that releases all

the evil spirits

within

i still do that

to this day

anything to bring the

hope for something

exciting in a world

dripping with the

mundane

two more inches

of snow

a mother trying

to fight off time

it is now an exercise

in biting my tongue

and sadly getting

used to the smell

of shit

my mother said

they never tell

the nurses about

this part of the job

i looked at her

and laughed and

said i know

J.J. Campbell (1976 – ?) is old enough to know better. He’s a 3 time Best of The Net nominee and a two-time Pushcart Prize nominee. He’s been widely published over the years, most recently at The Rye Whiskey Review, Night Owl Narrative, Disturb the Universe Magazine, The Beatnik Cowboy and Crossroads Magazine. His most recent book, to live your dreams, was published by Whiskey City Press. You can find more info on the book by going here: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/245883678-to-live-your-dreams.