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I'll wet my Ankles &
Slip in
To my knees
A pool has my Heart.
Moonlight shattered
in the
Reflected shimmer.
A mouth of a fish thinks I'm
dropping bait
or just,
Says Hello.
I don't talk fish tonight.
I'll just be careful because
there are more
than fish in this pool.
The Air Laughs
at my arrogance
by Brushing
the leaves above my sight.
A star needs for nothing,
sufficient of itself.
I volunteer for an
adventure before
even knowing what it
is.
I cannot leave my Heart behind.
.....................................
Written February 3, 2026
Tuesday Morning
by John Edward Culp
All Rights Reserved
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Countless humans have lived on Earth—those who formed the past, those in the present, and those who will shape the future. Every person thinks, learns, and acts differently from one another. The settings of the human mind are all personalized by the environment in which one grows up, the micro-details of their life, and so on. Man Is the source of all thoughts, religions, and political systems (Democracy, Authoritarianism, and Totalitarianism).
All the destruction that has happened in the world, the progress and the good that have occurred, the industrial revolutions, the inventions, and the books that have been written are the work of humans. All good and evil have been created by us, humans; the first spark of thought was ignited by our minds, and we put it into action. May we, as humans, be the cause of goodness in this black-and-white world, and may we allow the white to prevail over the darkness. But let us remember: to change the world, we must first turn the darkness that has engulfed our own being into light.
The Body
How can everything be so cold and soulless? Lack of purpose creates a lack of motivation, and a lack of motivation makes the mind ill and depressed. What in this world can make us happy and purposeful? Money, wealth, fame, or a cup of coffee, a little water, and a book or a film to watch? I do not know If these are related or not, but when you do not feel yourself, it is as if you have no existence. Truly, what are we doing here? Do we have any impact on this gray and black world?
Humans are slaves to other humans; great pyramids of people who are slaves to others. This is the system of today’s societies. With every step we take, we touch the darkness and the dust that has surrounded us all with our entire being. Routine and a lack of creativity have become natural for people. If someone wants to be different, people cannot tolerate them. Who implemented this system in the world? Have the great capitalists forced people to be like robots? Have they promoted those without talent—who reach positions through buffoonery and mockery—to create entertainments so that people see no need for any change In themselves?
I fear the day I want to do something, but the result fails for completely absurd reasons. Fear sometimes makes us feel terrible for any reason. Fear is like a monster that we always want to avoid facing, lest that monster destroys us. Most people consider themselves free of fear, but no one is honest about this. Even the bravest people have a very deep fear hidden in a corner of their heart. Those who run away from their fear instead of accepting and living with It will eventually, as I said, be swallowed by fear like a monster.
How is happiness created within us? By gaining money, wealth, status, or eating our favorite food? Note that if a person has all of these but feels empty, how can the issue of happiness and being glad return to their mental and intellectual state? The more humble and educated a person is, the more their sense of happiness can differ from someone who gambles and spends their day drinking alcohol.
I do not know what is right or wrong. What is life? Where is our goal? What does our nationality define within us? What identity do races and ethnicities give us? These only form part of the confusion of our minds. Why should someone be in the best place on this planet while another is in the worst? How and in what way was this boundary between individuals created? Where did grudge, envy, hypocrisy, and narcissism come from? Certainly, even the greatest scientists do not have correct answers to these questions and give cliché answers like: “These were all created by God…”
Very well, most of us believe in a higher power, but who Is there to answer us directly? True, if we think correctly, we ourselves are responsible for finding an answer for ourselves. Now, this answer will be determined according to our way of thinking and the goal we believe in. That is, all answers can be correct, but truly, which one Is “more” correct?
with us, & the love was us. The same love we were laid upon. We wouldn’t have laid the foundation in the absence of love. And if we do, we will pick our remains,
scattered all over the earth the day the wind blows. The night a tinge of her love got into me, I had no holes in me, & so, I did not leak like a basket. Instead, I held it close & let it seep into every edge of my soul, for a quiet enrichment of the parts that long for her. I am aware that she has settled in me the same way salt settles in soup. I admit love is a flame because my heart is burning, & I am aware that together we made the firewood. I admit love is as essential as air, because it keeps me whole. Today, as this love burns, let the fire increase day by day, let not our nakedness quench its furnace.
Opeyemi Oluwayomi is a violinist, a graphics designer, a member of Hilltop Creative Art Foundation, a final year English & Literary student of University of Ibadan. His works have appeared or are forthcoming on Eye to the Telescope, Heart of Flesh Literary Journal, Ink Sweat & Tears, Spillwords, Brittle Paper, Shallow Tales Review, Ekstasis Magazine, Eboquil Magazine, SpringNG, and elsewhere. He was the second-runner-up winner of the Shuzia Poetry Competition, 2023 (Journey of the Soul), shortlisted for IS&T’s Pick of the Month, 2025. He holds NCE in English & Music, from Federal College of Education, Abeokuta. Social media handles: Joseph O. Oluwayomi
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.
Every morning, on my way to university, I see our flag blowing in the wind along the road. Our symbol dances in the winds as if it is alive and breathing with life itself, its colors clashing with the blue of the sky. Every moment of the flag gives my heart a warm feeling – pride, trust, strength. Because it reminds me of the most sacred word – Homeland.
One day, our teacher asked in class:
– Children, what does Homeland mean to you?
The whole class became quiet. Someone said, “My mother”, another said “Nature” someone else said “Freedom”. I thought for a moment. Because this question was not simple – the answer had to be genuine and come right from the heart. On my way home, I watched the city: new roads being built, children playing in parks, farmers working in the fields, people hurrying home from work. These scenes helped me understand one truth: Homeland is not only land or a place – it is a sacred home built by the hard work, dreams, and dedication of its people.
The Homeland is warm like a mother’s love, strong like mountains, and full of life like a river. It raises us, supports us, and gives wings to our dreams. As a child of this Homeland, I want to be worthy of it. I may be young, but my dreams are as big as my country.
I study, learn, and work on myself every day. I know that educated youth are the biggest treasure of a nation. As our President say, “An educated generation is the guarantee of a great future”. That is why I push myself everyday and aim for new opportunities. Maybe one day I will become a translator, or maybe a diplomat or scientist who proudly speaks the name of Uzbekistan one international stages. But one thing will never change – I will always carry the warmth of my Homeland in my heart.
Whenever I feel tired or face challenges, I tell myself: “Charos, remember, you are an Uzbek girl! “. These words give me strength, patience, and confidence. Because being from Uzbekistan is not just a word in a passport – it is a pride, loyalty, love and staying true your dreams.
For me, Homeland is my parents’ prayers, my teachers’ effort, people’s smiles, and children’s laughter. Every time I hear about new achievements of my nation, I feel proud. Because every success is the result of our shred hard work.
Today, the reform in our country and the opportunities created for youth are universities, research centers, sports complexes – all of these are chances for the younger generation. We, the youth, must live up to this privilege.
I want to love and honor my Homeland not only with words, but with my actions. I want to make my country proud with everything I do and every idea I have. Because real patriotism is not only shouting slogans on holidays – it is living with dedication every day.
Whenever I speak on a big stage, I feel the eyes full of pride, trust and love of my parents on me. The words, “Our daughter is our pride”, ring in my ears. This is my biggest reward and my greatest motivation.
My Homeland – my pride
It lives in every breath I take, every intention I make, and every dream I have. It inspires me, gives me strength, and guides me. I study, learn, and work hard to be a worthy child of my nation. Because a person who truly loves their Homeland never stops – they always move toward greatness.
Normuminova Charos Shamshoshodovna was born on August 4, 2007, in the Kashkadarya region. Along with her school studies, she finished the Children’s Music and Art school No. 15with a high diploma. She is a winner of more than 15 scholarships. She speaks four languages fluently. She has IELTS and CEFR certificates in English. She has been accepted to more than 15 international and state universities. She is a currently a bachelor’s student at Webster University in Tashkent on a full scholarship. Holder of more than 50 international awards. She was a guest on the “Fayzli kun” program on the Kashkadarya TV channel. Her articles have been published in the USA and Turkey.
O‘TKIR HOSHIMOV’S WORK “NOTES WRITTEN IN THE MARGINS OF A NOTEBOOK”
Abstract. This article discusses the work “Notes in the Margins of a Notebook” by O‘tkir Hoshimov and its significance. The work calls for avoiding what is forbidden, striving for honesty, being faithful and conscientious, and acting justly. The book consists of short stories and aphoristic reflections, each of which undoubtedly has a positive influence on human spirituality.
Key words:Notes in the Margins of a Notebook, chapters, aphorisms, anecdote, truth, book.
As Jalaluddin Rumi wrote: “A book is our present life. Everyone needs it, including children. The main issue lies in choosing the right books for them. We agree with the idea that reading improperly chosen books is worse and more harmful than reading nothing at all” [1].
A book is the lamp of intellect and the wing of thought. As we read books, our spirituality becomes richer, our worldview broadens, and our intellect sharpens. If we stop reading, we remain in darkness and lose the sense of direction. When our path is dark, we fall into depths and become unable to act independently without relying on others’ opinions. In short, we may turn into a “mankurt” who has forgotten his identity and past. A person who reads books, however, can overcome any obstacle in any situation, because books are full of mysteries and wisdom. As Amir Temur once said: “A book (a manuscript) is the foundation of all creativity, construction, intellect, knowledge, and wisdom; it is the educator who shapes life” [2].
Research objective is to provide a brief overview of the work “Notes in the Margins of a Notebook.” When we look at the creative heritage of the writer and public figure O‘tkir Hoshimov, we see that almost all his works call people to justice, enlightenment, and goodness, sowing the seeds of light in the heart. In nearly all his works, the greatest figure — the Mother — is honored and praised. He never writes about a topic whose essence he does not understand. He portrays his characters sincerely, as living and realistic people, revealing not their outward appearance but their inner world. He analyzes their spiritual state in harmony with the environment and the era through deep philosophical reflection, interpreting human suffering in all its aspects: emotional state, attitude to life and people, thoughts, inner experiences, and even love [3].
Discussion and results. Although O‘tkir Hoshimov dedicated this work to his wife O‘lmasxon, his sharp взгляд did not ignore the difficult days that befell our nation. Each short story in the book is like an inscription written on the pages of the notebook called life, full of bitter truths. Everyone writes such notes according to their worldview. Some live honestly and purely throughout their lives yet never see prosperity, but leave behind a good name. Others live selfishly and unjustly, yet are regarded by some as “great people.” The main idea of the work is that no one can escape the guardian called Truth. Wherever one may be, with whomever one may be, truth always remains truth.
Most importantly, the work presents situations that may seem amusing at first glance but are deeply tragic upon reflection. For example, in the anecdote “Incompetence,” which is presented with sharp humor:
A tale from the 1960s: In ancient times, a precious jewel disappeared from the treasury of a king. Merchants from other lands were arrested on suspicion, and guards with drawn swords were placed over them. By coincidence, four Uzbek merchants were also arrested, but no guards were assigned to them. When asked why, they replied: “They do not need guards — if one tries to escape, the other will catch him.”
A joke from the 1970s: A question was asked to Armenian Radio: “At an exhibition in Paris, three-star Armenian cognac won a gold medal. Why did the five-star one receive nothing?” The answer was: “We ourselves are surprised! Both were poured from the same barrel!”
The tragedy of the 1980s: The repression known as the “Uzbek affair” took place. Thousands of innocent people were imprisoned and exiled. Uzbeks were labeled as “falsifiers,” “bribe-takers,” and “dependents” — not because they were truly guilty, but because of their indifference, their inability to unite, and their incompetence.
The question of the new millennium: “When shall we unite? When?” [4]
While reading this humorous anecdote, you may smile, but painful thoughts inevitably arise. It reminds us of the tragic period when our land became a colony of Tsarist Russia. At that time, some weaknesses of the Uzbek people, which we may not admit, were revealed. This is not meant as a negative judgment of the Uzbek people, but it is clear that dependence on others resulted from incompetence and disunity. Yet, fortunately, bright days have come, although bitter memories remain. We must not repeat the mistakes of the past. These hardships served as valuable lessons and experience for us.
On the other hand, the Uzbek people also possess virtues that wash away such shortcomings. As evidence, we may cite the story “Andisha” (Consideration):
“Our ancestors used to warn: ‘Never build your hearth against your neighbor’s wall. If the smoke from your fire irritates your neighbor’s eyes, the food you eat will be unlawful.’ … What more proof is needed to demonstrate the Uzbek sense of consideration?” [5]
This shows how honest, pure, and God-fearing our ancestors were. The story emphasizes that no one should seek benefit from another’s harm. In short, this work has a great educational influence on readers, as it reveals the truths of life as they are, without exaggeration or embellishment. Each story and each aphoristic line deserves to become a separate book. While reading, one sometimes sinks into deep thought, sometimes sheds tears. This work is a collection of wisdom accumulated throughout the author’s life and lessons that will guide us throughout our own lives.
Ruziyeva Nigina San’at kizi is a 2nd year student of the primary education department of the Shahrisabz State Pedagogical Institute. To date, she has authored more than 15 articles. She is the owner of the “El-yurt a’lochosi” badge. She is a delegate of several official projects such as “Jutice code”, “Kelajak ofisi”, “Eco-kahramon”. She is a member of the “Yoshlar akademiyasi”, “Intellektual yoshlar”, “ShDPI Yosh Liderlari”, and “Yosh islohotchilar kengashi”. She also holds a national certificate of B and B+ levels.
