Poetry from Duane Vorhees

THE RIDDLED UNRIDDLING

Our togethered time was

antic —

anticipation of futured frolic is keen.

Not knowing how becoming comes,

we remained riddlesome.

What wealthy beggars we were!

As innocence succumbed to weariness,

our fountains – they limited;

our foundations – eliminated.

Your footprints faded. I no longer heard your call.

High above all heights,

tiny rags of cloud still cling to sky’s naked skin.

Afterwardness knits,

or tears,

pastward threads.

THROWN

I’m being thrown,

knocked into next Wednesday,

but all my bones

are boxed up like hens’ eggs.

In my young nest

I dreamed of being bird.

Dreams cannot last

against this cruel, hard world.

I was plucked and packaged

and sold in market aisles.

I’m a javelin

but not a boomerang,

a-hovering

in the air like a hanged

man. I’ve lost my grounding,

my home is in the sky.

I’m being thrown,

knocked into next Wednesday,

but all my bones

are boxed up like hens’ eggs.

LIBIDO THEOLOGY AND DEVELOPMENTAL STAGE THEORY

Time was still new

in the cooling cosmic stew,

and the immortal prepubescent

was still learning omniscience.

After establishing The Environments

God granted Himself a day of rest.

But, already bored with nascent existence,

He remained experimentally restless.

And so the Creator became the Render

and divided humanity into genders.

But His novel dirt-and-rib mixture

was still a static creature.

And the world still lacked tension,

drama, and dynamic evolution.

So, in order to bestir the universe,

God manifested as serpent.

The event was mankind’s catalyst

for stress, embarrassment, and sex.

And while the snake did shed and shed and shed

God, changeless, new-knowing, stayed frustrated.

Though lacking yet any human ego

God sought to assimilate libido.

The divine adolescent jonahed a whale.

But the erotic projection failed:

the prophet was one the whale couldn’t stomach.

And soon time exhausted the Tanakh.

And divine anxiety became more urgent.

How could God continue as virgin?

Then God knew Mary and begat himself as Son.

And that’s how God finally became human.

BETWEEN TWO SUNS

One more melanoma day 

ends itself in ash and cinder. 

Our crisp souls, cliched

to yet another auto-da-fe

to competitive conformity.

But (just now starting(

we mount our nocturnal bucket brigade,

begin passing forth and back

these cool liquids of our life

from one to the other,

refill and back again,

refill and back again

between two suns.

DOUBT AND REASSURANCE

“With all the wonder you have won

–O you, who took my summers’ sun–

will now you win my winters too

or spend my age on agile youth?”

“The seas flow. Seasons flower.

but I delight in my idol.”

Essay from Choriyeva Go’zal Gayratjon qizi

Young Central Asian woman in a tan sweatshirt with short black hair and a white collared shirt, holding a framed certificate.

Literary traditions and renewal processes in Uzbek literature and world literature

Abstract: This article covers the issues of the historical development of Uzbek literature and world literature, the preservation of their literary traditions and a comparative analysis of the processes of renewal. In Uzbek literature, the role of such creators as Alisher Navoi, Zahiriddin Muhammad Babur, Abdulla Qodiriy in continuing traditions and at the same time introducing new ideas into literature is examined. From world literature, comparative aspects with the work of such great writers as William Shakespeare, Leo Tolstoy, and Franz Kafka are revealed. The article analyzes the harmony of literary heritage and modern creative innovations, the relationship between national literatures, and their contribution to global literary processes on a scientifically based basis. It also discusses the integration of Uzbek literature of the period of independence with world literature and the formation of the translation school.

Keywords: Uzbek literature, world literature, tradition, renewal, comparative analysis, creativity, modernism, realism, cultural integration, national heritage, literary process.

Literature is one of the oldest and most influential forms of human thought. The literature of each nation reflects its national thinking, psyche, socio-spiritual state. Therefore, the study of the interaction and connections between Uzbek literature and world literature, the analysis of their traditional and new aspects is a separate, relevant scientific topic today.

During the period of independence, Uzbek literature has reached a new stage of development. On the one hand, our classical literary heritage is being re-examined, and on the other hand, advanced experiences in world literature are being absorbed into Uzbek literature. This process is further enriched by the fact that the works of Uzbek writers are being translated into world languages, and examples of world literature are being published in Uzbek.

Classical literature: The traditions of classical Eastern literature were continued in the work of Alisher Navoi. However, he also initiated a stage of renewal with his approach based on the Turkic language.

Babur: a vivid example of the harmony of tradition and innovation in literature. His work “Boburnoma” combines historical, artistic and scientific features.

20th century literature: National realism and modernist movements were combined in the works of Abdulla Qodiriy and Cholpon.

Shakespeare: Continuing the traditions of the Renaissance, he created new dramatic forms.

Leo Tolstoy: through Russian realism, he interpreted humanity, morality and social issues in a new way.

Kafka: was the embodiment of modernism, depicting the conflicts between man and society.

Comparative analysis:

Navoiy and Shakespeare: although one reached the pinnacle of Eastern and one Western classical literature, both of them covered the problems of the human psyche and society.

Qodiriy and Tolstoy: there is a commonality in depicting the spiritual image of the nation and social problems through realism.

Cholpon and Kafka: both created in the spirit of modernism and tried to express the spiritual crisis of the time.

In conclusion, although Uzbek literature and world literature have their own traditions and renewal processes, through their comparative study, one can see many commonalities and harmonies. Uzbek literature, relying on its rich classical heritage, is also actively participating in modern global literary processes. Therefore, a deep study of literary traditions and the integration of innovations with the national spirit will remain one of the important tasks of future scientific research and creative activity.

References:

  1. Navoiy A. Khamsa. – Tashkent: Fan, 1991.
  2. Bobur Z.M. Baburnoma. – Tashkent: Gafur Ghulom Publishing House, 2008
  3. Qodiriy A. Bygone Days.- Tashkent: Sharq, 1994
  4. Cholpon A. Night and Day.- Tashkent: Literature and Art, 1992
  5. Shakespeare U. Hamlet. – London, 1603
  6. Tolstoy L. Anna Karenina – Moscow: Science 1978
  7. Kafka F. Process. – Berlin, 1925
  8. Karimov I. A. High spirituality is an invincible force. – Tashkent, 2021
  9. Mirziyoyev. Sh.M. Strategy of the New Uzbekistan. – Tashkent, 2021.
  10. History of Uzbek literature. 5 volumes – Tashkent: Science, 2010.
  11. Saidov. A. Theory of Literary Studies. – Tashkent University, 2015

Choriyeva Go’zal Gayratjon qizi was born on February 17, 2007 in Kyzyryk district of Surkhandarya region. She is a 1st year student of the Denov Institute of Entrepreneurship and Pedagogy of Samarkand State University, Uzbek language and literature department and holder of a national certificate in native language literature. She is an international ambassador of the Indian state Iqra Foundation Organization (online) in three areas. An active member of the Argentine Association of Science and Literature Writers. The creative collection “Zukko izvlavi” -2025 of the Republic of Uzbekistan and Karakalpakstan has been published.

Poetry from Kemal Berk

Older South Asian man with gray hair, a black jacket, and reading glasses.

I seek myself in you

 I loved you from afar, my beautiful one.

I miss you so much, day and night.

Your beautiful words reach my heart.

I seek myself in you, not in myself.

Don’t just watch and laugh: extend your hand.

I see your honeyed tongue singing.

You stole my mind while you were the girl of our house.

I don’t seek myself in myself, but in you.

The judge spoke from the middle of the book.

He said that you are the source of peace and the taste of my mouth.

Your mother named you when you were born.

I don’t seek myself in myself, but in you.

Gliding over the sea

You smile at me, beautiful one, I admire you.

You fascinate me so much that I feel you reach my heart.

I don’t seek myself in myself, but in you.

There are mountains that are vast and high.

It is the immaculate snow I have placed in my heart.

In my heart, your words are honor.

I do not seek myself in myself, but in you.

From Kemal Berk

I was born in 1955 in the Sungurlu district of Çorum province, Turkey. I attended primary, secondary, and high school in Sungurlu. I completed my university education at Ankara Gazi Education Institute. I began teaching in 1978 and retired in 2016. I am married with three children and four grandchildren. In addition to my professional life, I continued teaching Turkish folk dances, which began during my student years, and taught them to hundreds of students. We participated in festivals, opening ceremonies, and competitions, and won awards. I took special art courses, learning 3D painting techniques, and creating paintings. I took a course for the hearing impaired, learning how to communicate with people with hearing impairments. For two years, I attended special gastronomy courses and learned to prepare various meat dishes, vegetable dishes, desserts, pastries, and buns. Preparing and serving these dishes gives me peace of mind. I volunteer at AFAD, which provides aid in disasters such as fires, floods, earthquakes, and landslides.

Poetry from John Grey

THE RAT

He’s staring at you

like you’re a total stranger.

You’ve shared this house for twenty years

and he suddenly wonders what you’re doing here.

This is the same guy

for whom to see you was to hug you,

who sent you roses on non-birthdays,

and salvaged so many hard work days

by preparing candle-lit dinners for two.

And now, out of nothing more

than a bewildered look,

he says, “I don’t love you.”

But it’s not the man you know

who’s saying it.

The words sink in

but he doesn’t.

It’s first thing in the morning.

You’re making breakfast.

He’s rubbing the sleep out of his eyes.

You freeze as if you’ve just seen a rat

scurrying across the kitchen floor.

The rodent disappears into a crack in the wall.

It’s just wide enough for a man to follow.

FROM UNDER THE TREE

I can lie beneath

and look up

like a Chinese poet

squeezing every outstanding

universal question

into the wind-rock of branches,

the shake of leaves,

the solid trunk,

and the bird life

that flutters in and out,

moments of brown

and blue and red

to stoke the living green.

God’s omnipotence –

check!

man’s insignificance –

check!

death and rebirth –

check!

sorrow and joy

and hope and despair –

check! check!

and double check!

A solitary leaf breaks free of a limb,

slowly cascades down through the currents,

lands softly in the spreading roots.

So it’s not just me who does these things.

A FLOODED TOWN

Last night’s rain

is this morning’s flood,

as the river shatters its banks,

and the land is all current.

Topography is up for grabs,

and water swarms tree and house alike,

finds least resistance

where cars park and people live.

Boats row down main street,

Cop helicopters circle like hawks,

People scramble up to second floors,

match the downpour sob for sob.

Townspeople set their boundaries

but sometimes those margins can’t cope.

The weather wasn’t in on the agreement.

The river can only do so much.

So property, once thought impregnable,

is there for the taking.

What can’t happen here happens.

Self-confidence is just more debris.

CINEMA ROMANCE


A woman in white,
Anna struts by,
Anna on her way
to the door of her Romeo,
passing by like a swan,
head high,
wings held tight to her thighs.
high heels barely touching concrete
as if the sidewalk is
a carpet in a courtyard,
Vogue ascetic,
eyes wheel around her,
roofs shine like diamonds,
likewise the towers and domes.
feast for the eyes
to which no one’s invited
but that man
on his balcony,
corn-fed hair,
eyes beaming sun-signals
from the world’s highest point,
backed by blue sky
and a tarmac of flowers,
Don Juan ascended,
his cock-crow, the wind,
his palace, wherever
he finds himself smiling,
and soon lovers meet,
galvanized, energized,
a burning love’s flashes,
then the sky’s kind: lightning,
drenching rain,
thunder, the great roll of the rest of us.

REFUGE

When I move in with others,

I am alone.

At night, bedded among them,

I am almost with these people

but where I’ve come from,

what I’ve done,

still keeps us apart.

For all this welcoming,

their eyes ask, “Who are you?”

And their proffered understanding

comes with a caveat,

“Why are you this way?”

These days,

my only people are the stars.

Cloud cover,

no matter how beneficent,

can’t possibly bring me closer.

John Grey is an Australian poet, US resident, recently published in Shift, River And South and Flights. Latest books, “Bittersweet”, “Subject Matters” and “Between Two Fires” are available through Amazon. Work upcoming in Rush, Writer’s Block and Trampoline.

Essay from Kurbanova Shukurjon Yeldashbayevna

FORMATION OF PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT BASED ON THE TURKIC CLASSICAL LITERARY HERITAGE: A PEDAGOGICAL MODEL ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE DIDACTIC VIEWS OF HAFIZ KHOREZMII

Kurbanova Shukurjon Yeldashbayevna

Independent researcher at Urgench State Pedagogical Institute, Uzbekistan

shukurjonyeldashbayevna@gmail.com

ORCID: 0009-0006-3301-0776

Abstract: This article analyzes the educational and spiritual essence of Hafiz Khorezmii’s work, in particular the role of the poet’s philosophy of love and didactic views in the formation of personality development. The study highlights the theoretical foundations of the integration of the Turkic classical literary heritage into the modern educational process and reveals the conceptual principles of the pedagogical model that ensures the spiritual, spiritual and intellectual development of the individual. Based on the continents of Hafiz Khorezmii, the mechanisms of internal change of the individual, reflexive thinking, moral and ethical choices, processes of mental stability and constructive use of suffering are analyzed from a scientific point of view.

The results of the research determine the possibilities of using the didactic heritage of Hafiz Khorezmii in modern pedagogical practice and put forward proposals and recommendations that will have an effective impact on the formation of personality development. The results of the article strengthen the scientific and methodological foundations aimed at spiritual enrichment of the educational process, improving personal education and using the Turkic classical heritage as a practical pedagogical resource.

Keywords: Hafiz Khorezmii, Turkish literature, personality development, didactic model, ethics, pedagogy, education.

Introduction.

Classical Eastern literature is a major spiritual phenomenon that has made a huge contribution to the formation and improvement of human thought, moral values, and artistic and aesthetic taste over the centuries. In particular, the literary heritage created by the Turkic peoples has a unique artistic and philosophical system, in which language, thought, and education form a common whole, inseparable from each other. One of the creators who vividly demonstrated this harmony is Hafiz Khorezmii, a representative of the poetry of the XIV-XV centuries, whose personality and legacy remained unknown to the scientific community for a long time, but who was included in the scientific community as a result of the consistent research of Professor Hamid Sulaymon in the second half of the 20th century [H.Sulaymon, 1976: 34–43].

Hafiz Khorezm’s artistic heritage today retains its significance not only as a historical and literary phenomenon, but also as a source of moral and aesthetic values ​​that can satisfy the spiritual needs of modern society. The poet’s poetic examples, which glorify human virtues, encourage spiritual and moral purification, and awaken thought, emphasize the principles of education, justice, perfection, and philosophy of life.

Literature review.

The poetry of Hafiz Khorezmii is considered to be a work that created a unique school in classical Turkic literature with its didactic orientation, strict systematization of moral views, and harmony with social consciousness. These aspects have been scientifically covered by researchers who have studied the poet’s artistic thinking, aesthetic views, and didactic concept. In particular, M.Sulaymonov in his articles “Hofiz Khorezmi’s didactic views” [M.Sulaymonov, 1992: 20–22], “Didactic views in the poetry of Hafiz Khorezmii” [M.Sulaymonov, 2016: 144–148], and Sh.Kurbanova in her methodological manual “Hofiz Khorezmi’s didactic views and their pedagogical significance” [Sh.Ye.Kurbanova, 2025: 9-13] analyze the spiritual and moral concept of the creator, his educational ideas, and the poetic means in which they are embodied.

It is noteworthy that in recent decades, interest in the heritage of Hafiz Khorezmii has been growing not only in the local scientific environment, but also internationally. In particular, the poet’s work is being formed as a separate scientific direction in literary schools of Turkic-speaking peoples. The research of Turkish researchers R.Toparli [Recep Toparlı, 1997: 511-524], A.Ustuner [Ahat Üstüner, 2014: 1107-1116], A.Karahan [Karahan Akarturk, 2020: 244-248] and other scholars makes it possible to study the poetics of Hafez Khwarizmii from a new theoretical perspective and reassess his place in Turkic literature.

Research Methodology.

The methodology of this study is aimed at identifying the educational potential of the Turkic classical literary heritage, in particular, the possibilities of applying Hafiz Khorezm’s didactic views on personal development in the modern educational process, and in this process it is considered appropriate to conduct research based on cultural-historical, pedagogical anthropology, competency-based and integrative approaches. This methodological platform allows for a deep study of the conditions of the formation of the poet’s work, the educational essence of his moral and philosophical ideas, and the degree of harmony of this heritage with current pedagogical practice.

It is appropriate to use scientific methods such as historical-logical analysis, source and textual research, comparative analysis, content analysis, pedagogical modeling, expert evaluation in the research, which create a great opportunity to identify the main semantic layers of the concept of perfection in the lyrics of Hafiz Khorezmii, to determine the pedagogical interpretation of such categories as moral maturity, spiritual purification, moral standards and social responsibility.

This set of methodological approaches helps to establish on a scientific basis the ways of effective use of the didactic heritage of Hafiz Khorezmii and to create a conceptual framework that serves to apply it to the education of a modern person.

Analysis and results.

Hafiz Khorezmi’s poetic views, formed around the theme of love, embody a complex spiritual and moral system serving the perfection of the individual. In the poet’s philosophy of love, aesthetic pleasure, spiritual suffering, contemplation, moral maturity and the pursuit of perfection are manifested as complementary didactic principles. In this regard, the issue of love in Hafiz Khorezmi’s lyrics is not only an emotional experience, but also a philosophical and didactic concept that embodies the stages of the spiritual development of the individual. The following verse of the poet serves as an important scientific source in illuminating the main semantic layers of this concept:

Dard-i jondin dam urma, ey Hofiz,

Chun jahon ichra yo‘q turur hamdam.

Mahrame izdar ersang o‘zunga,

Dard-i jonso‘z erur sanga mahram.

So‘z-i jonning so‘zinikim yozdim

Kuydiyu yondi kog‘az ila qalam.

G‘am taqi ne’mate erur haqdin

Ne’matin yeyu ayla shukr-i niam.

Hamdame chunki yo‘q bu olamda,

Izdayu bo‘lmag‘il nadim-i nadam.[ Devon. Book II, 1981: 292]

The analysis of this verse shows that Hafiz Khorezmii interprets love as a process of spiritual and logical transformation of the individual, self-perception and achievement of inner perfection. The verse “Dard-i jondin dam urma” indicates that delaying personal development, avoiding internal suffering, and suppressing mental processes are contrary to human development. This idea is consistent with the principles of modern developmental psychology such as “cognitive-emotional integration” and “management of internal experiences” and confirms that emotional maturity is one of the important pillars of personal development.

We can see how these aspects play a role in personal development in the research of F. Abdug‘opirova [F.A. Abdug‘opirova, 2022: 58-76], M. Badritdinova [M.B. Badritdinova, 2022: 78-92], L. Eshonkulov [L.N. Eshonkulov, 2022: 85-97], E. Kurbanov [E.E. Kurbanov, 2022. 62-66] and other studies. Thus, in the poet’s didactics, suffering is interpreted not as a destructive, but as a transformative force – that is, as an internal spiritual force of personal growth.

The verses “jahon ichra yo‘q turur hamdam” and “ Dard-i jonso‘z erur sanga mahram” in the stanza emphasize the necessity of the process of spiritual isolation, self-awareness, and metaphysical thinking that occurs when a person is left alone with himself. From a didactic point of view, this serves as the basis for the formation of a person’s metacognitive competencies, the development of independent thinking, and internal reflection. This process, present in the poetic discourse of Hafiz Khorezmii, is in harmony with mystical concepts and is interpreted as an important stage in achieving perfection. At the same time, this idea is consistent with pedagogical and psychological concepts such as “internal dialogue” and “reflective practice” used in modern personally oriented education.

The verse “So‘z-i jonning so‘zinikim yozdim

Kuydiyu yondi kog‘az ila qalam” reflects the process of transforming internal experience into external expression in the poetics of Hafiz Khorezmii. This process can be noted as a necessary mechanism for the formation of expressive competence, the ability of a person to express his thoughts and feelings from a psychological and pedagogical point of view. A person who is able to express himself is more active in understanding his identity, which is one of the main indicators of personal maturity.

The poet’s idea “G’am taqi ne’mate erur haqdin” reveals the positive, educational essence of grief and suffering. This idea didactically corresponds numerically to the “growth through adversity” model. Experiencing difficulties, demonstrating acceptance and patience towards them strengthens a person’s mental resilience, the formation of volitional qualities, and willpower. For Hafiz Khwarizmii, grief is not a sign of spiritual weakness, but a divine test that shapes the qualities of a perfect person.

The final lines of the stanza, exclaiming, “Hamdame chunki yo‘q bu olamda 

Izdayu bo‘lmag‘il nadim-i nadam” emphasize independence, inner freedom, and at the same time honesty and loyalty to one’s own identity as the highest stage of personal perfection. This idea is consistent with the principle of moral education and autonomy in personal development. According to modern educational theory, moral education and autonomy are the ability of a person to make independent decisions, feel responsible for his actions, and live based on his inner beliefs and values. Hafiz Khwarizmii, expressing this principle through poetic symbols, connects personal perfection with divine logic and spiritual strength.

According to the results of the above analysis, Hafiz Al-Khwarizmi’s philosophy of love forms three main components for the didactic model presented in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Didactic model of Hafiz Khorezm’s philosophy of love.

The results show that this model, aimed at the formation of personality development, using the didactic views of Hafiz Khorezmii, is significant in all respects. It sees personality development in spiritual and intellectual harmony, interprets personality development as a process of internal changes, spiritual searches, overcoming difficulties and self-awareness. This shows that the possibilities of using Turkish classical literature in the modern educational process are extremely wide.

Conclusion/Recommendations.

This study has shown that the philosophy of love and affection in the works of Hafiz Khorezmii constitutes a complex system that has not only aesthetic, but also pedagogical and didactic significance in the formation of personal perfection. After all, the use of the philosophy of love and didactic views of Hafiz Khorezmii allows enriching the inner world of a person, strengthening moral values, developing the ability to make independent and responsible decisions, as well as educating a mentally stable and intellectually mature person.

In order to effectively use the criteria for personal education and achieving moral perfection in the works of Hafiz Khorezmii in pedagogical activities, it is appropriate to put forward the following scientifically based proposals:

1. Special educational modules aimed at the formation of personal perfection should be developed in schools and higher educational institutions based on the Turkic classical literary heritage and the didactic views of Hafiz Khorezmii.

2. Interactive methods based on Hafiz Khorezm’s continents and philosophy of love, namely reflexive writing, group discussions and spiritual self-awareness exercises, should be widely implemented in pedagogical practice.

3. It is recommended to develop a system of indicators based on the didactic heritage of Hafiz Khorezmii in assessing personal development and spiritual education, and to monitor the moral and intellectual development of students.

To achieve these goals, we offer the following recommendations:

a) Develop methodological manuals on personal development in the process of studying classical Turkic literature and Hafiz Khorezm’s lyrics and organize trainings for teachers;

b) Based on the results of the research, it is recommended to integrate Hafiz Khorezm’s philosophy of love and didactic views into school and university programs as a pedagogical model.

As a final thought, it can be said that the work of Hafez Khwarizmii and the classical Turkic literary heritage can be widely used in the modern educational process as a practical and theoretical basis for enriching personal education, developing spiritual and intellectual potential, and forming moral maturity.

References.

1. Abdugupirova F.A. Didactic system of preparing preschool children for school through the development of cognitive activity: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Ped. science … diss. – Namangan, 2022. – p. 153.

2. Badritdinova M. B. Psychological features of the development of the cognitive style in adolescents: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology … diss. – Tashkent, 2022. – p 147.

3. Eshonkulov L. N. Cognitive significance of humor in the formation of aesthetic thinking of youth: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Philosophy … diss. – Samarkand, 2022. – p.153.

4. Hafiz Khorezmiy. Devon. 2 vol. 2-book. – T.: UzKPMK, 1981. – p. 312.

5. Karahan Akarturk. Hafiz-i Harizmi // Muslims in History No. 5, 2020, Ankara. – pp. 244-248.

6. Kurbanov E.E. Cognitive-pragmatic features of speech influence Philol. science. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) … diss. – Andijan, 2022. – p. 142.

7. Kurbanova Sh.Ye. Didactic views of Hafiz Khorezmi and its pedagogical significance. Methodical guide. – Urganch: Kuvanchbek-Mashkhura, 2025. – p. 36

9. Sulayman H. Uzbek poet Hafiz Khorezmi and his divan found in Hyderabad. // Literary heritage. – T., 1976. No. 6, – pp. 34-43.

10. Sulaymonov M. Didactic Views in the Lyrics of Hafiz Khorezmi. // Issues of Language and Literature, Book 3. Collection of scientific articles by professors and teachers of higher educational institutions of the republic dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the birth of Doctor of Philology, Professor Begmatov Ernst Azimovich. – Namangan.: 2016. – pp. 144-148.

11. Sulaymonov M. Didactic Views of Hafiz Khorezmi // Public Education, jur. – T..: 1992. No. 10-12. – pp. 20-22.

12. Toparli, Recep. Hafiz-ı Harezmî’s eulogy on Sultan Ibrahim’s death // Marmara. Journal of Turkish Studies, 8, 1997, – pp. 511-524.

13. Üstüner, Ahat. “The Turkish Name in the Divan of Khârezmli Hâfız // Turkish Studies 9(6), 2014. Ankara. – pp. 1107-1116.

Essay from Zamira Moldiyeva Bahodirovna

Young Central Asian woman in a black coat and dress pants and long dark hair standing beneath a photo of a male historical figure and the Uzbek flag.

Metaverse and Real Life: Is the Boundary Disappearing?

Zamira Moldiyeva Bahodirovna,

Student of English filology faculty, UZSWLU.

Email:zamiramoldiyeva219@gmail.com

Abstract: The Metaverse is emerging as a significant aspect of modern digital life, blending virtual experiences with real-world interactions. This study investigates whether the boundary between virtual and real life is disappearing due to the rapid adoption of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and digital avatars. By reviewing recent literature, case studies, and observational data, this paper explores both the benefits and risks associated with prolonged engagement in the Metaverse. Results indicate that while the Metaverse enhances communication, creativity, and accessibility, it may also lead to reduced real-life social interactions, psychological stress, and dependency on virtual environments. The study emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between virtual engagement and real-life activities and suggests strategies for promoting healthy digital habits.

Key words: Metaverse, virtual reality(VR), augmented reality(AR), digital avatars, virtual life, real-life interaction, social skills, digital addiction, mental health.

Introduction

The concept of the Metaverse represents a digital universe where users interact through avatars and immersive technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Unlike traditional social media, the Metaverse provides a three-dimensional environment where users can socialize, work, study, play, and create in real-time. The origins of this concept trace back to early internet communities, online gaming platforms, and virtual worlds like Second Life, which laid the foundation for modern immersive experiences.

The recent surge in Metaverse development has been accelerated by major technology companies, including Meta (formerly Facebook) and Microsoft, who have invested billions into creating expansive virtual ecosystems. The COVID-19 pandemic further amplified the relevance of virtual interaction, as remote work, online education, and digital socializing became essential.

Despite these advancements, questions remain regarding the psychological, social, and behavioral effects of spending extended periods in virtual environments. Scholars and psychologists debate whether virtual engagement complements or threatens real-life experiences. This paper aims to:

1. Explore the potential benefits of the Metaverse for social interaction, creativity, and education.

2. Examine the risks associated with over-reliance on virtual experiences, including social isolation and psychological challenges.

3. Discuss strategies for integrating virtual and real-life activities to ensure balanced digital engagement.

Methods

This study employs a qualitative approach, relying primarily on literature review and observational analysis. Academic journals, reports from technology companies, and research articles on digital behavior and psychology were examined to assess the current understanding of Metaverse effects.

Key steps included:

1. Reviewing case studies of Metaverse applications in education, work, and social environments.

2. Comparing patterns of real-life interactions versus virtual engagement.

3. Identifying reported social, psychological, and behavioral outcomes associated with prolonged Metaverse use.

Data analysis focused on synthesizing findings to determine common themes, including the advantages of digital immersion and the potential risks of social detachment. The study also considered recommendations from digital psychologists and technology experts regarding safe and balanced Metaverse use.

Results

Positive Impacts of the Metaverse

1. Enhanced Communication: Users can connect with friends, family, and colleagues across vast distances, allowing for more flexible social and professional interactions.

2. Virtual Education and Remote Work: VR classrooms, online conferences, and collaborative virtual offices provide innovative ways to learn and work without geographical limitations.

3. Creativity and Entrepreneurship: Digital platforms in the Metaverse offer spaces for creative expression, virtual product sales, and entrepreneurial ventures.

Case Studies:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, VR classrooms were used by thousands of students worldwide, enabling interactive and immersive learning experiences.

Virtual job meetings and conferences replaced many in-person events, reducing travel costs and environmental impact.

Social gaming communities, such as Roblox and Fortnite, became central hubs for youth socialization.

Negative Impacts of the Metaverse

1. Reduced Real-Life Social Interaction: Prolonged engagement in virtual environments can diminish face-to-face communication skills and real-world social connections.

2. Addiction Risk: Excessive virtual engagement may result in compulsive behavior, where individuals prioritize online experiences over real-world responsibilities.

3. Psychological Effects: Studies indicate that prolonged VR use can contribute to anxiety, stress, and depression.

4. Decline in Practical Skills: Over-reliance on virtual environments may reduce problem-solving abilities and practical life skills.

Example: Adolescents spending more than six hours daily in Metaverse platforms showed lower social empathy and reported increased loneliness compared to peers engaging primarily in real-life activities.

Discussion

The Metaverse provides a dual-edged impact: while offering unprecedented opportunities for connection, creativity, and education, it simultaneously presents social and psychological challenges.

Interpretation of Results

The integration of virtual and real-life experiences can enhance human capabilities but also risks creating dependency on digital spaces. Younger generations, in particular, may prioritize virtual interactions over real-world relationships, potentially affecting emotional intelligence and social development.

Policy and Practical Implications

Digital Literacy Programs: Educators and parents should encourage responsible and balanced digital engagement.

Digital Detox: Scheduled breaks from virtual environments can improve mental health and real-life social skills.

Monitoring Engagement: Tracking time spent in Metaverse platforms can prevent excessive dependency.

Comparison with Previous Studies

The findings align with existing research indicating that VR and AR offer significant educational and professional benefits but may compromise social skills and emotional well-being if not properly managed.

Future Research Directions

Long-term psychological effects of heavy Metaverse engagement

Strategies for harmonizing virtual and real-life experiences

Potential policy frameworks for safe virtual space usage

Conclusion

The Metaverse represents a transformative frontier in digital interaction. It offers opportunities for communication, learning, and creativity that were previously unimaginable. However, the line between virtual and real life is becoming increasingly blurred, raising concerns about social skills, mental health, and over-dependence on digital experiences. Achieving balance through education, personal discipline, and responsible policy is crucial to maximize benefits while mitigating risks. The future of human interaction will likely depend on how effectively individuals and societies integrate the Metaverse with real-world experiences.

References

1. Bell, J. (2023). Virtual Worlds and Human Interaction. Tech Journal, 12(3), 45–59.

2. Meta Platforms. (2022). Metaverse Roadmap. Meta Reports.

3. Smith, R., & Lee, A. (2021). Psychological Effects of VR. Journal of Digital Psychology, 8(2), 101–118.

4. Johnson, K. (2020). Augmented Reality in Education. Education Tech Review, 5(4), 32–50.

5. Brown, T. (2022). Social Skills in Digital Environments. Social Science Quarterly, 14(1), 15–29.

6. Roberts, P., & Nguyen, L. (2021). Addiction in Virtual Worlds. Journal of Behavioral Studies, 10(3), 88–104.

7. Miller, S. (2020). Balancing Real and Virtual Life. Digital Ethics Review, 6(2), 55–70.

Zamira Moldiyeva Bahodirovna was born on May 14, 2006, in Zomin district, Jizzakh region. From 2013 to 2024, she studied at School No. 47 named after Khayrulla Akhmedov in Zomin district. During her school years, a collection of poems written together with amateur young poets was published under the title “Qaldirg‘ochlar” (“Swallows”).

Currently, she is a second-year student at the Uzbekistan State World Languages University, Faculty of English Philology. She is the founder of the “Aleksandr Faynberg Heritage” Club and a coordinator at the clubs “Qizlarjon,” “Students Union,” and “Leader Qizlar.” She is also an active member of the sports club and a player of the “Aurora” volleyball team, as well as the winner of numerous competitions.

She actively participates in projects such as “English Quest: Freshmen Edition,” “EmpowerHer: Republican Forum of Young Women Leaders,” and “Eco Marathon.” She is an official member of the “Intellectual Youth” team. She holds the certificate “Quiz Competition on World AIDS Day with Certificate 2023” along with several other international certificates. She has participated in various conferences and is the author of several articles.