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.
Dr. Edwin Antonio Gaona Salinas (Ecuador), escritor, poeta, doctor en literatura, fundador de la Plataforma Literaria Internacional POETAS INTERGALÁCTICOS, creador de la estructura lírica GAONESA.
El 28 de noviembre de 2025 se cumplirán 3 años del nacimiento de esta estructura poética, GAONESA, que ha incursionado con gran éxito en la literatura mundial contemporánea. ¡Feliz cumpleaños!
PROFIL DE SCRIITOR
Dr. Edwin Antonio Gaona Salinas (Ecuador), scriitor, poet, doctor în literatură, fondator Platformă literară internațională POEȚI INTERGALACTICI , creator structură lirică GAONESA.
În ziua de 28 noiembrie 2025 se celebrează 3 ani de la nașterea acestei structuri poetice GAONESA care a intrat cu mult succes în literatura contemporană mondială. La mulți ani!
Edwin Antonio Gaona Salinas (*1971) nació en San Antonio de las Aradas, un pequeño pueblo al sur de Ecuador, cerca de la frontera con Perú. Criado en el ambiente rural de los Andes, la escritura de este autor contemporáneo refleja la vida en los Andes ecuatorianos, una mezcla de pobreza y trabajo, chismes, leyendas e historias cotidianas, sumergiendo al lector en este fascinante mundo. Con sus obras sobre la gente de la zona ecuatorial de Ecuador, Sudamérica, aún bastante desconocida a pesar de los medios de comunicación modernos, el autor ha sido uno de los pocos escritores ecuatorianos de renombre internacional, galardonado con premios en el extranjero (EE. UU., España, etc.).
Edwin Antonio Gaona Salinas (*1971) was born in San Antonio de las Aradas, a small village in the south of Ecuador near the border with Peru. Having grown up in the rural atmosphere of the Andes, the contemporary authors’ writing reflect the life in the Andes of Ecuador, a mixture of poverty and work, gossip, legends and everyday stories, and let the reader immerse in this fascinating world. With his works about the people at the equator in Ecuador, South America, which is still quite unknown today despite the modern media, the author has been one of the few Ecuadorian writers internationally renowned winning Awards abroad (USA, Spain, etc.).
Edwin Antonio Gaona Salinas (*1971) s-a născut în San Antonio de las Aradas, un sat mic din sudul Ecuadorului, aproape de granița cu Peru. Crescut în atmosfera rurală a Anzilor, scrierile autorilor contemporani reflectă viața din Anzii Ecuadorului, un amestec de sărăcie și muncă, bârfe, legende și povești cotidiene, și îl lasă pe cititor cufundat în această lume fascinantă. Cu operele sale despre oamenii de la ecuator din Ecuador, America de Sud, care este încă destul de necunoscută astăzi, în ciuda mass-media moderne, autorul a fost unul dintre puținii scriitori ecuadorieni de renume internațional care au câștigat premii în străinătate (SUA, Spania etc.).
Keywords: Arabic language, language learning, language acquisition, learning methods, Arabic script.
Abstract: Arabic is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, with over 400 million speakers. However, its unique script, grammar, and pronunciation often pose challenges for learners. This article discusses practical and accessible methods for mastering Arabic, focusing on the importance of consistent practice, cultural immersion, modern technology, and conversational engagement. The article also highlights the role of online resources and structured learning techniques to accelerate language acquisition.
Introduction:
Arabic, a Semitic language spoken across the Middle East and North Africa, is the official language of numerous international organizations, including the United Nations. It is a language of rich cultural significance, historical depth, and modern importance. Learning Arabic offers various personal, academic, and professional advantages. However, many learners find it difficult due to its complex script, unique phonetics, and distinct grammatical structures. This article provides a comprehensive overview of effective and easy methods to learn Arabic, from foundational steps in mastering the script to advanced techniques involving cultural immersion and technological tools.
I. Mastering the arabic script and pronunciation:
The Arabic script is one of the primary challenges for beginners. Unlike most languages, Arabic is written from right to left, and its letters change shape depending on their position in a word. It is crucial to begin by mastering the Arabic alphabet and understanding the differences between print and cursive writing. Learners should also familiarize themselves with the diacritical marks that affect pronunciation, especially short vowels.
To facilitate learning the Arabic script, interactive apps like Duolingo, Memrise, and Busuu can be helpful. These platforms offer gamified lessons that allow learners to practice reading and writing through repetition, progressively mastering each letter.
Pronunciation in Arabic can be difficult due to the presence of several unique sounds not found in many other languages, such as the deep “ع” (ʿAyn) or the throaty “خ” (khaa). Listening to native speakers and practicing pronunciation through podcasts, YouTube videos, and audio lessons is essential for familiarizing oneself with these sounds. Online resources, such as ArabicPod101 and YouTube channels that focus on Arabic phonetics, can provide useful material for hearing proper pronunciation and mimicking it.
II. Leveraging modern technology and online resources:
The digital age has made learning Arabic easier and more accessible than ever. A variety of online platforms, mobile apps, and websites offer structured lessons and exercises designed to enhance language skills. These tools focus on different aspects of language learning, including grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, and reading comprehension.
Platforms like Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, and Babbel are excellent choices for learners at different levels. They provide interactive exercises and progress tracking, allowing learners to study at their own pace. These apps often incorporate a mix of lessons in vocabulary, grammar, and speaking practice.
Additionally, Arabic-language websites and platforms like Al Jazeera, BBC Arabic, and MBC provide free content for immersive language learning. Watching news reports, TV shows, or listening to podcasts in Arabic can help learners improve listening comprehension, as well as expose them to various regional dialects.
For more structured learning, ArabicPod101 and LingQ are excellent options for intermediate learners, providing targeted lessons in grammar, vocabulary, and listening comprehension. Combining these resources with real-world exposure to the language accelerates the learning process.
III. The role of cultural immersion in language learning:
Cultural immersion is one of the most effective ways to learn Arabic. Experiencing the language in its natural environment enables learners to understand colloquial expressions, regional accents, and the cultural nuances embedded in everyday conversations.
For those unable to travel to an Arabic-speaking country, local Arabic-speaking communities and cultural events provide an excellent alternative for language immersion. Participating in a language exchange program, attending local cultural events, or joining Arabic-speaking groups can create opportunities to practice real-life conversations. Apps like Tandem or HelloTalk connect language learners with native speakers for voice and text chat, providing a platform for practicing conversational Arabic.
Spending time in Arabic-speaking countries, such as Egypt, Jordan, or the UAE, allows learners to immerse themselves fully in the language. Engaging in daily activities, such as shopping, eating out, and conversing with locals, helps improve fluency while gaining insight into the cultural context of the language.
IV. Consistency and structured learning:
One of the key components to mastering Arabic is consistency. Language learning is a gradual process that requires steady practice and patience. Setting daily, achievable goals, such as learning five new words or phrases each day, can help maintain momentum.
To ensure steady progress, learners should develop a structured study plan. A typical learning routine could include:
Vocabulary practice: Focus on essential words and phrases used in daily conversations.
Grammar study: Understand basic sentence structure, verb conjugations, and the use of tenses.
Pronunciation practice: Regularly practice pronunciation using resources like audio lessons and native speakers.
Listening comprehension: Watch Arabic movies, news reports, and TV shows to improve understanding of spoken Arabic.
Tools such as Anki (a flashcard app) and Quizlet allow learners to create personalized study decks for vocabulary and grammar revision. These tools use spaced repetition, a proven method for memorizing information more effectively.
V. Overcoming common challenges in learning arabic:
While learning Arabic can be difficult, many challenges can be overcome with the right approach and mindset. One common issue is the difficulty in distinguishing between Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and the various regional dialects (e.g., Egyptian Arabic, Levantine Arabic, Gulf Arabic). For beginners, it is essential to focus on MSA, as it is the formal written language used in media, literature, and education. Once a solid foundation in MSA is established, learners can begin to explore regional dialects based on their interests and travel goals.
Another challenge is the complexity of Arabic grammar, particularly the verb system. However, with consistent practice, learners can familiarize themselves with grammatical rules and gain confidence in constructing sentences. The key is not to rush but to master each level before moving on to the next.
Conclusion:
Mastering Arabic is a challenging yet highly rewarding endeavor that demands dedication, patience, and a strategic approach. Unlike some languages, Arabic has a unique script, grammar, and structure, making it a rich linguistic landscape that requires consistent effort. Success in learning Arabic involves a combination of traditional learning methods, such as textbooks, formal lessons, and classroom interaction, along with the integration of modern technology. The use of apps, online courses, and digital resources enhances the learning process, offering greater flexibility and accessibility for a wide range of learners.
Cultural immersion plays a crucial role in understanding the intricacies of Arabic. By engaging with native speakers, watching Arabic media, and participating in cultural activities, learners can bridge the gap between theory and practice. This exposure allows for a deeper appreciation of the language in its natural context, helping learners internalize not just vocabulary but also cultural nuances, idiomatic expressions, and social customs.
In addition, consistent practice is key to retaining knowledge and improving fluency. Whether through speaking, writing, listening, or reading, daily or regular interaction with the language strengthens retention and builds confidence. The gradual process of mastering the language means that learners should set realistic goals and measure progress incrementally, which fosters motivation and reduces frustration.
Arabic serves as a gateway to understanding the rich culture, complex history, and evolving politics of the Arab world. It opens up numerous opportunities for personal, academic, and professional growth. Fluency in Arabic is highly valued in many fields, including diplomacy, international relations, business, translation, and academia. Moreover, the ability to communicate in Arabic strengthens global perspectives and promotes cross-cultural understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.
By strategically utilizing digital tools, participating in cultural exchanges, and following a structured study plan, anyone can achieve proficiency in Arabic. Ultimately, the effort invested in learning this beautiful and multifaceted language not only enhances cognitive abilities but also fosters personal growth, making it a valuable skill in both professional and personal contexts. With dedication, perseverance, and the right approach, Arabic can become an immensely rewarding language to master.
References:
Alhassan Ibrahim. Learning Arabic: A Guide for Beginners. 2nd ed., ─London: Routledge, 2019.
Fadel Amal. Arabic Grammar for Beginners. ─Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2020.
Taha Ahmad. Language Learning Through Cultural Immersion. Journal of Language Studies, vol. 12, no. 3, 2018, pp. 45-60.
Zahran Mohamed. Modern Arabic: A Practical Approach. ─Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2017.
Younis Khalid. Effective Language Acquisition Strategies: Mastering Arabic in the Digital Age. Language Learning Review, vol. 6, no. 2, 2019, pp. 103-118.
Duolingo. Arabic Language Learning: Strategies and Tools. Duolingo Blog, 2021, www.duolingo.com. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.
Rosetta Stone. The Best Ways to Learn Arabic: A Digital Approach. ─Virginia: Rosetta Stone, 2020, www.rosettastone.com. Accessed 15 Jan. 2025.
Rashidova Shohsanam, 1st-year student, Faculty of Philology, DTP
INTRODUCTION
Ancient Greek literature occupies a unique place in the history of human thought. One of its highest peaks is the tragedy “Oedipus Rex” created by Sophocles. This work went far beyond its own era and became a universal masterpiece expressing the struggle between human destiny, will, reason, and fate. “King Oedipus” is not only a treasure of Greek culture but also one of the foundations of world dramaturgy. Aristotle, in his Poetics, considered “Oedipus Rex” the model of a perfect tragedy. This article analyzes the philosophical content of the tragedy “Oedipus Rex”, its dramatic structure, the problem of human destiny, and its significance in world literature.
MAIN PART
The History of Creation and Summary of the Work
Sophocles lived and created in the 5th century BC.
Philosophical Depth
The tragedy explores the complex relationship between fate and human will. Oedipus is intelligent and just, yet he reaches the destiny he wanted to escape. His tragedy is not only external but also internal—his spiritual struggle reveals the limits of human understanding.
Themes of sight and blindness also carry symbolic meaning: the blind prophet Tiresias “sees” the truth, while the physically sighted Oedipus is spiritually “blind.”
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Dramatic Structure
The play reflects the ideal tragic structure described by Aristotle. Each scene is built on strong dramatic conflict. The Chorus plays the role of the moral voice of society. The language is simple yet rich with symbolism, and the dialogues reveal the characters’ inner worlds.
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Oedipus – a Symbol of Truth-Seeking
Oedipus becomes a symbol of humanity’s endless desire for truth. Even when the truth is painful, he refuses to run from it. His tragedy is the tragedy of knowledge—the courage to know.
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Global Significance and Influence
The tragedy greatly influenced world culture and psychology. Freud’s “Oedipus complex” emerged directly from this myth. Existentialist thinkers such as Sartre and Camus, and poet T. S. Eliot, found deep philosophical meaning in the work.
Today the tragedy remains one of the most performed plays in world theatre.
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CONCLUSION
Sophocles’ “Oedipus Rex” is a masterpiece that searches for answers to humanity’s eternal questions. It reveals the conflict between human destiny, reason, belief, and the pursuit of truth. Through the figure of Oedipus, Sophocles invites humanity toward moral responsibility and the courage to know the truth.
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REFERENCES
1. Sophocles. Oedipus the King (translated from Greek). Tashkent: G‘afur G‘ulom Publishing, 1983.
2. Aristotle. Poetics. Tashkent: Fan Publishing, 1979.
3. Freud, S. Totem and Taboo. Theory of the Oedipus Complex. Moscow: Nauka, 1990.
4. Karimov, N. History of World Literature. Tashkent: National Encyclopedia of Uzbekistan, 2008.
5. Tohliyev, B. Fundamentals of Literary Theory. Tashkent: O‘qituvchi Publishing, 2015.
Rashidova Shohsanam Alisher qizi Denov Tadbirkorlik va pedagogika instituti filalogiya fakulteti 1 -kurs
ABSTRACT: This article highlights one of the most pressing issues of the modern era: the problem of addiction to social networks and technologies and its impact on the human psyche. The study analyzes the psychological states arising from the excessive use of digital technologies and social networks, such as stress, decreased self-esteem, and depression.
Furthermore, it provides recommendations for preserving mental health through the rational use of social networks, proper time management, and adhering to specific rules. The results of this research could be beneficial for users of digital technologies.
Keywords: gadgets, mental health, social network, modern technologies.
АННОТАЦИЯ: В данной статье освещается одна из самых актуальных проблем современности: проблема зависимости от социальных сетей и технологий и ее влияние на психику человека. В исследовании анализируются психологические состояния, возникающие в результате чрезмерного использования цифровых технологий и социальных сетей, такие как стресс, снижение самооценки и депрессия.
Кроме того, даются рекомендации по сохранению психического здоровья через рациональное использование социальных сетей, правильное распределение времени и соблюдение определенных правил. Результаты данного исследования могут быть полезны для пользователей цифровых технологий.
Ключевые слова: гаджеты, психическое здоровье, социальная сеть, современные технологии.
ÖZET:Bu makale, modern çağın en acil sorunlarından birini, yani sosyal ağlara ve teknolojilere bağımlılık sorununu ve bunun insan psikolojisi üzerindeki etkisini ele almaktadır. Araştırma, dijital teknolojilerin ve sosyal ağların aşırı kullanımından kaynaklanan stres, öz saygıda azalma ve depresyon gibi psikolojik durumları analiz etmektedir.
Ayrıca, sosyal ağların akılcı kullanımı, doğru zaman yönetimi ve belirli kurallara uyulması yoluyla zihinsel sağlığın korunması için öneriler sunmaktadır. Bu araştırmanın sonuçları dijital teknoloji kullanıcıları için faydalı olabilir.
Anahtar Kelimeler: cihazlar, zihinsel sağlık, sosyal ağ, modern teknolojiler.
Introduction:
In the current era of rapid development, gadgets and social networks have become an integral part of our lives. These digital technologies hold a significant place both in the field of education and in our lifestyle. If we take a look at the term “social network,” it translates from English as “social network.” This term denotes a structure consisting of a group of social objects and the connections between them, and it was first introduced into society by James Barnes, a sociologist from the Manchester school, in the second half of the 20th century.
Each of us spends a large part of our daily lives with the internet network and mobile applications: we follow the news, connect with our friends and acquaintances, and acquire knowledge and information. As everyone knows, through social networks we can create content, access unlimited information, and have a platform for entertainment (music and movies), studying various sciences, and easily solving all our work-related problems. Among the applications included in social networks, the most popular ones today are: Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, Viber, Snapchat, as well as platforms specifically designed for teenagers, such as Ibrat Farzandlari and Mutolaa. These applications have many beneficial aspects, and the number of such applications is increasing daily. Speaking of their benefits, they provide opportunities for language learning, thorough acquisition of knowledge through online courses and video lessons, and information exchange through groups and channels.
Looking at the origin of social networks, we can see it through several examples. For instance, in the 1970s, the first email systems began to appear. This happened on October 2, 1971, with the first message sent to a remote computer, and the first users of this social network were military personnel on ARPANET. This was the first step towards the creation of the Internet and its networks. One of the applications whose user base is growing today is Pinterest. This platform is a media platform that allows users to add pictures online and organize them into thematic collections. Due to its artistic, beautiful design, Pinterest is particularly popular among women. Its founder is Ben Silbermann from West Des Moines, who founded the company of the same name in 2008. As of November 30, 2016, this site ranked 50th in the Alexa.com rating.
The role of social networks in our daily lives is undeniable. However, we cannot turn a blind eye to their dangerous aspects: social networks are stealing not only our precious time but also our mental health. Because these social networks are relatively new to our country, comprehensive research has not yet been fully conducted. But although these modern gadgets and platforms make our lives more convenient, their unlimited and uncontrolled use can also lead to psychological problems. Addiction to social networks gradually captures a person’s attention, time, and emotions, leading to feelings of loneliness, stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
Stress
In most cases, people try to find refuge in social networks to escape worries and stress. However, experts emphasize that using these platforms does not reduce stress but, on the contrary, can cause nervousness and stress. In an experimental trial involving 1800 volunteers, it was noted that in many cases, women spend more time on social networks than men. Therefore, stress, anxiety, mental state, and addiction are developing at a higher rate among women. Women tend to waste their time on trivial things. Instagram, where other people share things that affect stress and mental health, has been proven to be the biggest source of stress among applications. When women using this app see the lives of famous actresses or wealthy people, they form various thoughts and start wanting those around them to be like the people on social networks. Unfortunately, such situations also cause stress in some individuals.
Mental Health
The World Health Organization, explaining the concept of mental health, focuses on the following points:
Mental health is not merely the absence of mental illness.
Mental health is an integral part of health; there is no health without mental health.
Mental health is determined by a range of socio-economic, biological, and environmental factors.
Another study also notes that good and bad moods can spread among people through social networks.
In some cases, the time spent on social networks increases significantly due to the abundance of entertaining, superficial, and often unnecessary information. Such amusement and entertainment can also negatively impact a person’s health, as the sheer volume of large amounts of information often overloads the nervous system, causing a feeling of fatigue.
One might wonder, “What makes it so captivating?” The answer is that the people working on the functions of social networks strive to make them more interesting and diverse day by day, so that the person who logs in spends more time, spends money, and for similar reasons. Looking at research at this point, studies show that three billion people worldwide, 40 percent of the planet’s population, use social networks. Research indicates that on average, people spend about two hours a day on social networks. This kind of internet dependency is growing daily. This is becoming one of the biggest problems in the entire world.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, it is important to emphasize that addiction to social networks and digital devices, which have become an inseparable part of modern life, poses a serious risk to human mental health. Research indicates that individuals who spend a significant amount of time on these platforms often experience conditions such as stress, low mood, and diminished self-confidence. Constantly observing the “perfect” lives of others fosters feelings of comparison and low self-esteem, which can lead to depression.
Furthermore, excessive addiction distances the individual from the real world, damaging their family and social relationships. Sleep disorders, difficulties with concentration, and constant distractions negatively impact their daily productivity.
Therefore, while leveraging the positive opportunities of digital technology, it is crucial to minimize its negative consequences. This requires time management, purposeful usage, and maintaining a healthy balance between the virtual world and real life. By balancing online activity with real-world interests and personal connections, it is possible to preserve mental health and make wise use of modern technologies.
References:
1. Yusupova, M. “The Impact of Social Networks on Individual Psychology” (scientific article).
2. “Social Media Addiction – An Epidemic of the 21st Century” – popular article (xabar.uz).
3. Rozimurodov, Otamurod Baxromovich (3rd-year student, Fergana State University).
4. Ahrorov, S. “Socio-Psychological Factors in the Manifestation of Social Media Addiction” (scientific article).
PERFIL DEL ESCRITOR
El 28 de noviembre de 2025 se cumplirán 3 años del nacimiento de esta estructura poética, GAONESA, que ha incursionado con gran éxito en la literatura mundial contemporánea. ¡Feliz cumpleaños!
