Synchronized Chaos Mid-December 2025: The Stories We Tell Ourselves

Stylized dreamlike painting of a white winged female fairy touching the brown hair of a naked person. Their back is to us and they're sitting at a dark pond on a misty day. Rocks and tree branches are in the water.
Image c/o Dawn Hudson

First, an announcement: published poet and contributor Tao Yucheng would like to host and judge 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

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

Good luck, if you choose to enter!

Stylized image of a group of red and blonde and brown haired children standing in a forest reading to an elephant and giraffe.
Image c/o Circe Denyer

Now, for this month’s issue: The Stories We Tell Ourselves. We explore communication, relationships, myth, history, imagination – different ways of making meaning from life.

Dildora Abdullayeva considers the study of phrases as a part of human language and how phrases have changed over the years. Toychiyeva Madinaxon points out how young people are changing global language through Internet slang. Habibullayeva Lalyokhon Zarifjon kizi explores cultural and linguistic features of phrases in the Uzbek language. Rashidova Shohshanam speaks to the rapid changes in the Uzbek language and the challenges and opportunities that poses for educators. Noah Berlatsky reflects with humor on how our brains’ memory for language might shrink with modernity.

Dildora Qobilova suggests common student grammatical errors and ways to correct them in the classroom. Yarmamatova Sevinch Elyor qizi suggests ways to enhance young children’s speech fluency. Suyarova Gulsanam explicates finer points of Uzbek grammar for audiences speaking all languages. Abulqosimova Bahora highlights the intricacies of the phonetic system of the Uzbek language. Muqaddas Islomova highlights the role of multimedia digital technologies in helping language learners enhance their speech skills. Shamsiddinova Maftuna Hamidjon qizi gives an overview of academic studies into the structure and functions of different parts of speech. Adashaliyeva Durdona Akramjon qizi highlights the central role of linguistics in reinforcing the values of a socialist society. Rukhshona Kamolova Turayeva highlights the importance of studying the history and role of the English language to understanding effective communication. Sharifov Sirojiddin Shavkatovich underscores the critical importance of basic math literacy to social functioning. Satimboyeva Risolet outlines educational benefits of AI technologies in education.

Kucharov Bakhodir outlines principles of written and spoken professional communication. Dilnoza Bekmurodovna Navruzbekovna urges people to carefully consider what career would be right for them, and for schools to facilitate that deliberation. Aslidinova O’giloy highlights the potential of a digital economy and the need to prepare students for that world. Sarvar Eshpulatov also highlights the importance of digital literacy for success in today’s society. Niyozova Shakhnoza Farhod qizi elucidates the potential of digital technologies in education. Iroda Sobirova offers suggestions for fostering entrepreneurship in Central Asia and elsewhere. Choliyev Nurbek Rözimbek ogli highlights the importance of local banks in trusting in the creditworthiness of local entrepreneurs. Eshmurodova Sevinch Bahrom qizi outlines steps credit card bureaus can take to ensure consumer security. Urinova Robiyabonu discusses the use of psychology in professional management. Qarshiboyeva Mavluda Azizbek qizi analyzes the role of international assessment exams in world education. Abduvaliyeva Jasmina Jahongir qizi outlines some upsides and downsides of economic and cultural globalization.

Satimboyeva Rizolat discusses how to develop a social culture of reading and literary appreciation that goes beyond the classroom. Aziza Xasanova highlights the joy and creativity and history of the Uzbek mother tongue. Qudratova Nozima Bahromovna outlines the innovative narrative storytelling techniques of Uzbek author Tog’ay Murod.

Pink and gray stylized image of crow birds, an old treasure chest and vase, an analog clock and lamp and globe.
Image c/o Circe Denyer

Lakshmi Kant Mukul shares some of a people’s history of India through the lens of one architectural landmark, the Qutub Minar. Alan Catlin renders the historical, somnolent, stuck atmosphere of the American Rust Belt into poetry. Xudoyberdiyeva Mohiniso delves into the Islamic Turkish Kara-Khanid state, which reached its height in the 700s. Duane Vorhees traces a variety of Jewish mystical influences on Sigmund Freud. Chimezie Ihekuna relates how the modern Nigerian state came together as a result of colonial powers and bears little relation to cultural realities, causing a legacy of trouble. Jacques Fleury reviews Boston Lyric Stage’s production of a mashup of Sherlock Holmes and A Christmas Carol, providing two different lenses through which to interpret Victorian England. Qulliyeva Feruza Qosimova highlights the role of the Uzbek constitution in guiding contemporary society.

Mahbub Alam reflects with nostalgia on his high school days: friends, teachers, the school environment. Mesfakus Salahin revels in the wonder of childhood and memory. Sobirjonova Rayhona expresses gratitude to a dedicated teacher.

Olga Levadnaya speaks to the ‘halo effect’ of memory, where we remember the best parts of what happened to us. Dr. Jernail S. Anand considers his memories to be friends. Taghrid Bou Merhi holds onto the hazy and charming days of childhood and dreams. Mandy Diamantou Pistikou reminds us of the innocence and joyful curiosity of early childhood. Meanwhile, Luis Cuauhtemoc Berriozabal speaks to the feelings, thoughts, and sensations of middle age.

Taro Hokkyo brings to life a moment of deep soul recognition among two different people. Turkan Ergor wonders at the vast diversity of people’s life experiences, given our common humanity. Dr. Kang Byeong-Cheol reminds us of the ingredients of love: wisdom, compassion, and humility. Mrinal Kanti Ghosh reflects on a love that captures his soul and disrupts his consciousness.

Mohan Maharana also writes of compassion, speaking of his work as a healer and social worker coming alongside people living with mental illness. Juana Del Carmen Soria urges people to make wise and caring choices. Asmonur Rajabboyeva, in a piece translated into English by Shuxratova Nilufar, draws on a chamomile flower as a symbol for innocence and compassion. Eva Petropoulou Lianou puts out an urgent call for global peace. Dianne Reeves Angel looks beyond the commercialism of Christmas to seek out spiritual gifts of peace and love and hope. Brajesh Kumar Gupta affirms that goodness is so much stronger than evil. Zuhra Jumanazarova highlights the critical role of the Uzbek constitution in the country’s governance and respect for internationally recognized human rights. Eva Petropoulou Lianou laments the violence and selfishness of humanity, in poetry translated into Mandarin by Yongbo Ma. Pat Doyne mocks corruption in the United States’ federal government. Bill Tope argues against gambling from a social justice perspective. Yongbo Ma also translates a poem from Ahmed Farooq Baidoon on the weary quest of all too many people for justice. Brendan Dawson sketches some of society’s outsiders – immigrants and poets – and reflects on how society has become less welcoming.

Stylized image of a man with a red head in a black coat and suit with various white, black, red, and brown and blue posters on a wall behind him.
Image c/o Omar Sahel

Sayani Mukherjee wishes an old lover well with their new love during the holidays, while still acknowledging her sorrow. Abdulhafiz Iduoze speaks to the cycle of life and death in her imagistic poem. Kemal Berk yearns for a lost loved one through verse. Aisha Al-Maharabi evokes the pain of loss and longing in love. Graciela Noemi Villaverde mourns the loss of her husband of many years through poetry. Abigail George renders cautious and loving care for her father with cancer into thoughtful and slow poetry. Farzaneh Dorri pays tribute to a departed human rights lawyer.

Mirta Liliana Ramirez grieves the loss of someone who suffered much and had a difficult life. Sumaiyya Alessmael mourns the passing of her immortal, fanciful beloved. Milana Momcilovic evokes centuries of timeless longing for a lost love. Salimeh Mousavi probes probes a family’s grief to create a complex and layered character sketch and to mourn for parts of individual personhood severed by culture.

Shikdar Mohammed Kibriah speaks to the kind of immortality we find in nature, where one kind of creature lives because of the existence of another. Brian Barbeito relates a late autumn nature walk that left him feeling mystical and thinking of angels and a winter walk with friendly coyotes. Dr. Jernail Singh reminds proud humans of nature’s limits, checks, and balances. Toraqulova Pokiza Sanjarovna highlights the importance of living and working sustainability with nature during climate change. Avazbekova Rayyonakhon outlines some ways young people can work with “nature” close to us, our own bodies, and enhance immunity and stay healthier. Mahmmadjonov Saidjahon Shokirjon ogli and Mirzamansurova Robiya Ahmadjon qizi discuss clinical criteria elucidating when patients need heart valve transplants. Numonova Shohsanam Bahodirjon qizi presents an overview of the causes and effects of genetic mutation. Sejuty Rahman draws on an oyster fashioning an irritating grain of sand into a pearl as part of an extended natural metaphor for love.

Kavi Nielsen poetically expresses a sense of unity and connection with nature and their loved one. Shawn Schooley celebrates the sensual attraction he feels for his lover. Jamal Garougar speaks to the submergence of egos and unity with a broader whole inherent in love.

Petros Kyriakou Veloudas depicts love, grief, and memory feeding into the artistic process. Ana Elisa Medina encourages someone close to her to sing and share his heart’s journey. Kandy Fontaine reflects on how Motorhead frontman Lemmy inspired her artistically and personally.

Pink and purple line drawing of a woman's face with big eyelashes and two other characters, comic book style guy and girl, near her.
Image c/o Victoria Borodinova

Dianne Reeves Angel celebrates the joy of intentional female connection and friendship over many years. Priyanka Neogi reminds women and girls to remember their insight and strength. Amirah al-Wassif’s surreal poetry speaks to womanhood and our relationship with our bodies and minds.

J.J. Campbell shrugs and finds himself in a place of dull resignation, even at the holiday season, and renders his feelings into poems. Alan Hardy speaks to the vulnerability of being alone, whether in the wild or in his own mind, and how he protects himself by letting go of regret. Santiago Burdon depicts some misadventures along the road of guiding an emerging writer towards greater originality.

Richard LeDue captures a feeling common to many creators: seasons of wandering through a morass of scanty inspiration. Mykyta Ryzhykh expresses deep inner emotional pain through vivid imagery. Sara Hunt-Flores evokes the limits of the poetic muse for dealing with extreme emotions. Anna Keiko embarks on a tender journey of self-discovery.

Patrick Sweeney captures moments of revealing character development through one-line monostitch poetry. Christina Chin and Jerome Berglund depict small moments when people are captivated by small pleasures. Zebo Zukhriddinova celebrates the fun and the spontaneous organization of a day students spent folding and flying paper airplanes. Christina Chin depicts brief moments of peace and contemplation at Thanksgiving. Taylor Dibbert highlights the culinary creativity evinced by Thanksgiving meals. Asmonur Rajabboyeva’s short story, translated from Uzbek to English by Shuxratova Nilufar, details an imaginative and curious young girl’s travel to Mars.

Mark Young expresses fascination with arbitrary liminality, how we attempt to classify the world. Duane Vorhees reflects on natural and human moments of energy and transition, such as thunderstorms, from a comfortable distance that lets him think and react with wonder.

We hope this issue brings wonder, new thoughts, and empathy to your life.

Essay from Kandy Fontaine

Lemmy from Motorhead. He's middle aged, white, smoking a cigarette, in a jean jacket with long dark hair and a black hat with a design

Lemmy’s hotel bed: an altar, a stage, a throne. Lemmy Kilmister, high priest of the Church of Motörhead, placed me there as if I were a supplicant, a guest, a fellow conspirator in the endless liturgy of rock ’n’ roll. He pressed cigarettes on me—his communion wafers—and the gesture was both casual and ceremonial.

Later, I told Hollywood scenester and Lemmy associate Tequila Mockingbird about it. She hadn’t been there, hadn’t seen the way Lemmy’s eyes carried both mischief and gravity, hadn’t felt the weight of his charisma pressing down like a bass riff. From the outside, she misjudged it, calling it seduction. But that was her projection, not the truth of the moment.

Because Lemmy’s seduction was not necessarily sexual. It was existential. It was about drawing you into his orbit, making you part of the mythos. He seduced everyone—men, women, journalists, fans—into the gravity well of Motörhead. To sit on that bed was to be baptized into his world, where the sacred texts were written in nicotine stains and the gospel was screamed through Marshall stacks.

At the time, I was Alex S. Johnson, rock journalist. I wasn’t out as transfemme yet. My identity was still a private constellation, a truth I carried but hadn’t named aloud. Lemmy didn’t know that part of me, and yet—looking back—I see how his gesture resonates differently through the lens of who I am now, as Kandy Fontaine.

Classic Lemmy: collapsing the distance between journalist and confidant, between interview and communion. He didn’t care about categories—man, woman, transfemme goddess, fan, or critic. He cared about whether you could hang, whether you could accept the offering, whether you could step into the myth without flinching.

The cigarettes were not just smokes. They were a bond, a way of saying: You’re one of us now. The bed was not an invitation to romance but to belonging. And in that moment, I understood the difference between being misjudged from the outside and being initiated from within.

Now, as Kandy Fontaine, transfemme goddess, I revisit that memory with new eyes. I see not just the ritual of inclusion but the radical acceptance embedded in it. Even though I wasn’t out, Lemmy’s gesture carried no judgment, no hesitation. He didn’t need me to explain myself. He simply welcomed me into the communion of rock ’n’ roll, and in retrospect, that welcome feels even more profound.

Essay from Sarvar Eshpulatov

The Importance of Digital Literacy in the Modern World

In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, digital literacy has become an indispensable skill for individuals across all walks of life. Digital literacy means more than just the ability to use a computer or smartphone; it encompasses the capacity to critically evaluate digital content, communicate effectively through digital platforms, and safely navigate the online environment.

Enhancing Communication and Social Interaction

With the rise of the internet and digital devices, communication has transcended traditional boundaries. Digital literacy empowers people to connect instantly through emails, social networks, and video calls. This accessibility enriches personal relationships and expands professional networks, fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.

Facilitating Access to Information and Lifelong Learning

The digital world offers an enormous amount of information at one’s fingertips. Having the skills to find, assess, and apply this information accurately is crucial in education, research, and day-to-day decision-making. Digital literacy encourages self-directed learning and adaptation in an era where knowledge rapidly evolves.

Boosting Employment and Economic Growth

In the modern job market, digital competence is often a prerequisite. From basic computer skills to advanced data analysis, employees with strong digital literacy can perform tasks more efficiently and innovate within their roles. Organizations that invest in digital transformation experience improved productivity, competitive advantage, and market growth, which in turn stimulates the economy.

Addressing Challenges and Promoting Responsible Use

Despite its advantages, digital technology also poses risks such as misinformation, cyberbullying, and privacy breaches. A digitally literate person understands these challenges and applies ethical standards while using technology. Awareness of cybersecurity practices and digital etiquette ensures a safer online environment for everyone.

Supporting Social Inclusion and Empowerment

Digital literacy reduces the digital divide by enabling marginalized groups to access resources and opportunities previously out of reach. It fosters empowerment by providing tools for civic engagement, access to healthcare information, and participation in digital economies.

Conclusion

Digital literacy is foundational for navigating the complexities of the 21st century. It enhances communication, education, employment, and social inclusion while promoting responsible digital citizenship. Societies that prioritize digital literacy are better equipped to harness technology’s full potential, ensuring sustainable development and global connectivity.

Poem from Farzaneh Dorri

Older dignified looking woman with dark curly hair and a green business dress coat standing in a library with a fireplace.
Farzaneh Dorri

The Scales of Dawn

In loving memory of human rights lawyer Khosrow Alikordi

Iran breathes deep in shadowed hues,

where Injustice holds its heavy chain,

Binding spirits, dimming views,

and hope becomes a whispered pain.

But hark! A stirring, strong and clear,

a call for balance; sharp and bright,

to dry the marginalized tear,

and bring the silenced into light.

Justice angel walks on the earth as a warrior bold

with eyes that hold the sun’s own fire

a story waiting to unfold,

fueled by a deep and unquenched desire.

Her armor forged from Truth’s own gleam,

her voice; a trumpet, clear and strong,

to break the mold, to shatter dream

of ancient wrongs that linger long.

For every door held shut by fear,

for every heart that knows despair,

she brings the promise, ever near,

a breath of freedom in the air.

With steady hand, she lifts the scales

to weigh the hidden and meet the need

until the day that wrongness fails,

and Love and Equity take seed.

Middle aged man with short dark hair and a black suit coat standing in front of the scales of justice.
Khosrow Alkordi

Essay from Rashidova Shohshanam

Young Central Asian woman with reading glasses, long straight dark hair, and a black and white stripy shirt.

MODERN DEVELOPMENT PROCESSES OF THE UZBEK LANGUAGE AND ITS IMPORTANCE IN EDUCATION

Denov Institute of Entrepreneurship and.                      Pedagogica Faculty of Philology
Philology and Teaching Languages:                               Uzbek Language   1st-year student
Rashidova Shohsanam 
sohsanam719@gmail.com 

Abstract: This article discusses the modern development processes of the Uzbek language, the internal and external factors influencing its evolution, and the role of the language in the educational system. The study analyzes how the digital age affects linguistic changes, innovations in youth speech, and modern approaches applied in teaching Uzbek. The article also examines the importance of the Uzbek language in the development of society and highlights urgent issues related to its preservation and improvement.

Keywords: Uzbek language, education, language development, modern approaches, digital era, linguistic culture.

The spiritual world of a nation, its worldview, and historical memory are reflected, first of all, in its language. The Uzbek language, with its ancient history and rich lexical and grammatical system, is one of the most valuable cultural assets of our people. In today’s era of globalization and rapid technological progress, the development of language is accelerating, acquiring new forms and content.

Particularly, changes in youth communication, the influence of digital technologies, and modernization in the education system show that the Uzbek language is entering a new stage of development.
For students specializing in philology, it is essential to understand these processes thoroughly, analyze them scientifically, and convey accurate knowledge of the language to future generations. Therefore, this topic is highly relevant today.

Main Part

Modern Development Tendencies of the Uzbek Language
Throughout its history, the Uzbek language has undergone several evolutionary phases, with unique changes in each period. In the current age of globalization, the transformation of the language has become more dynamic.

Recent years show the following noticeable trends:

Expansion of the Lexicon

Technological, economic, and educational innovations are enriching the Uzbek vocabulary. Examples include digital sphere: online, mobile app, scanner, platform economics: startup, investment, competitiveness education: media literacy, interactive methods, credit-module system. These changes demonstrate the language’s adaptability to modern life.

Growth of Internet-based Vocabulary
Young people actively use social media and online terminology, leading to the widespread usage of words such as: like, trend, repost, channel, content, etc. While natural, this trend increases the need to preserve linguistic norms and cultural correctness.


Simplification in pronunciation and grammar
In spoken speech, many words are pronounced in shortened or simplified forms, for example:
“bo‘lyapti → boptimi”,“borayapsan → borvossan”.Linguists consider this part of the dynamic development of speech.

The Role of the Uzbek Language in Education

Teaching the Uzbek language goes beyond grammar; it shapes students’ thinking, communication skills, and cultural awareness. The educational process faces several important tasks:
Applying modern pedagogical technologies Today’s education effectively uses multimedia tools, electronic resources, and online platforms. These help to: increase student engagement, develop independent thinking, make learning more interesting.

Developing speech culture

Knowing the language is not enough; one must use it correctly and elegantly. Therefore, the following aspects require attention: correct pronunciation, expanding vocabulary, mastering literary norms, reducing unnecessary slang in speech.

National values and language

The Uzbek language reflects national identity, traditions, and the wisdom of ancestors. Literary works, folklore, and historical sources form an inseparable part of language education. Thus, connecting language classes with national values is essential.

New Opportunities in Teaching Uzbek in the Digital Era

Digital tools significantly increase the effectiveness of language learning. For example: audio and video materials improve pronunciation, interactive tests boost student participation,
online dictionaries enrich vocabulary, applications make lessons more engaging. For teachers, digital tools also provide advantages such as electronic lesson plans, online assessments, and multimedia-supported teaching.

Conclusion

The Uzbek language today is developing rapidly, synthesizing ancient traditions with modern innovations. While digital technologies enrich the language with new expressions and opportunities, protecting its literary norms and national essence remains a crucial task. Improving the methodology of teaching Uzbek, applying new pedagogical technologies, and cultivating students’ speech culture are among the most important objectives of modern education.
Language is the spirit of the nation. Preserving and developing it is the responsibility of each of us.

                  References
  1. Karimov N. Issues of Uzbek Language Development. Tashkent: Fan, 2020.
  2. Yuldoshev A. Introduction to Linguistics. Tashkent, 2019.
  3. Qodirova D. Methodology of Teaching the Uzbek Language. Tashkent, 2021.
  4. Mamajonov M. Digital Era and Language Culture. Samarkand, 2022.
  5. Kholmatov O. Foundations of Modern Linguistics. Tashkent, 2020.

Poetry from Juana Del Carmen Soria

Middle aged woman with short curly blonde hair and reading glasses.

Dawn breaks

A new world is emerging
where borders disappear
physical money is virtual
family love is strengthened
with videos or WhatsApp.

We must value health and education.

Let’s practice empathy and solidarity.

Let’s respect children
and the elderly, treasure troves of stories.

Let’s be alert to subliminal messages
and protect ourselves from the powerful.

A new humanity is awakening.

Let’s be young—no matter our age—
capable of taking action against injustice.

Let’s contribute the power of love
and thus build
a better world.

She was born in Río Gallegos, province of Santa Cruz, Argentina. In 2004 they settled in Villa Carlos Paz, where he currently resides. Retired teacher. ///Activities *2014/15: Coordinate The Magic of the Word. Villa Carlos Paz Municipal Cultural Hall.
2016/17: she continues to participate in the Writers’ Meeting, Book Fair, and support The Magic of the Word. /2018: Radio program “Más Allá de las Palabras” and “ Desde las Entrañas”. /Contribution to the arts and Literature. SECH (Society of Writers of Chile Recognition. Contribution to International culture. San Bernardo. Chile. /2019: Presents her book: Balances of Life, at the Buenos Aires International Fair./Universal Ambassador of Culture. Tarija. Bolivia./ Recognition and Illustrious Visitor of San Lorenzo. / 2020: Recognition of the Municipality by the Organization of the First Hispanic American Meeting of Writers and Poets. / She has participated in videos from the provinces of: Chaco and Jujuy. Culture of Villa Carlos Paz.


She has won awards and mentions for her poems within the province of Santa Cruz, Argentina and Italy./Her publications: 1997: ” Desde el Sur” Poemario /1998: “Queoquen en Moquehue” and the Buenos Aires Book Fair in the year 1998. / 2004: Tiempo de Palomas, is the result of a historical compilation of the Schools of Puerto San Julián- Santa Cruz 2011: “Con el Alma Desnuda” (Letters to the grandchildren, prose and poetry) It is her first published book in V: Carlos Paz. Presented in support of the Centennial of the Carlos N. Paz School and in Villa General Belgrano.


2014.- “Between the Waters of the Centuries” presented in various settings in Argentina. /2018.- LIFE BALANCES. Presented at the Buenos Aires Fair. Chili. Bolivia/ 2020.- “River of Silences”. / 2020: she headed the I Virtual Meeting of The Magic of the Word.

Poetry from Shawn Schooley

My Nyotaimori Girl


My American geisha,
burlesque cirque artisan.
Tranquil repose,
tapestry, platter of flesh.
Living canvas…
Raven hair Beachy twisted,
alabaster pseudo-funereal mask.
Amethyst plain,
pregnant with fuchsia teardrop.
Oracular seer…
Five piece Dynamite Roll necklace,
Fantasy Roll pendant.
Four piece Firecracker Roll,
a contour line denoting the breastial valley.
Voluptuous siren…
Two piece Hot Night Roll,
a tiara atop each roseate nipple throne.
Six piece Kamikaze Roll,
a covering for mons pubis.
Erotic missive…
Corpus supine,
enveloped by vermilion roses and argent orchids.
Victorious renaissance samurai’s,
celebratory reward.
Radiant altar…