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.
Annotation: Due to the rapid growth of digital technologies, the way people receive information, communicate, and form political and social opinions is undergoing significant changes. This article also provides recommendations on the proper use of social media during the digital transformation of society.
Keywords: social media, digital society, information security, youth awareness, fake news, virtual communication, digital culture, internet psychology, media literacy, online environment.
In the 21st century, where digital technologies are rapidly advancing, social media has become an integral part of human life. It serves not only as a means of communication but also as a source of information, education, business development, participation in political processes, and personal branding. Today, a large portion of the world’s population spends a considerable amount of time on social networks, and this significantly affects various layers of society.
Social media has become a primary platform for fast information exchange and global interaction. Through these platforms, people share their thoughts, stay updated on news, and form communities and groups. Among young people especially, social media has deeply penetrated everyday life and plays an important role in shaping identity and worldview. Additionally, social media is widely used in business and marketing. It offers great opportunities for small and medium enterprises to advertise, connect directly with consumers, and enter the market quickly.
Social media provides instant access to news and events. People follow global developments, scientific discoveries, and economic changes primarily through these platforms. Many educational platforms, blogs, video lessons, and online courses spread through social networks, providing students, learners, and professionals with opportunities to improve their skills. Social media also contributes to the development of open dialogue, diversity of opinions, and a culture of free discussion within society. Various social initiatives, environmental campaigns, and charity activities reach large audiences through social media, and they play a role in uniting people.
However, due to its open structure, misinformation spreads quickly on social media. This may negatively influence public opinion and lead to incorrect social decisions. The excessive attractiveness of virtual life can cause young people to waste time unproductively, experience psychological pressure, or develop complexes due to comparing themselves with others. Personal information shared by users can be exploited by fraudsters. Constant dependence on likes and comments may also lead to psychological addiction.
Checking information sources, relying on trustworthy platforms, and avoiding the spread of fake news are essential rules of digital culture. At the same time, parents and educators must focus on developing correct social media usage skills among young people.
In conclusion, social media plays an important role in the development of modern society. It simplifies education, business, communication, and information exchange. However, improper use can lead to negative consequences. The main task of society is to use social media effectively and safely, promote media culture among the youth, and improve information literacy. Only then can social media become a powerful tool that contributes to social progress.
Rakhmataliyeva Navruza Umidjon qizi was born on March 21, 2005, in Pop district of Namangan region. She completed her studies at School No. 32 in her district and is currently a 3rd-year student at Namangan State Pedagogical Institute.
Since childhood, Navruza has been passionate about literature and poetry. In addition, she is a five-time Champion of Uzbekistan in rhythmic gymnastics. She has actively participated in events organized by the Youth Affairs Agency, as well as in Zakovat intellectual competitions, and has earned several certificates.
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.
Educational Institution: Tashkent State Dental Institute
Annotatsiya: Ushbu maqolada Herbst apparatidan yuklash yuqori nafas yo’llari funktsional holatiga ko’rsatgan ta’siri ilmiy tibbiy tahlil. Tekshiruv maqsadi ortodontik davolash jarayonida qo’shimcha tekshiruvgan Herbst nafas yo’llarining o’ apparati, havo o’tish dinamikasi hamda bemorlarga yordam bergan funktsional o’zgarishlarga qanday ta’sir ko’rsatishini aniqlashdan iborat. Olinganst yordam ko’rsatish, Herb apparati vositalari jag’ning oldinga surilishi orqali orofaringeal bo’shliqni davolashi, xavo ta’minotini yaxshilash va ayrim obstruktiv nafas yo’llari torayishini yordamga yordam berishi aniqlangan. Xulosalarning, Herbst apparati nafas yo’l funktsional holatini yaxshilashda muhim vosita bo’lishi mumkinligi ko’rsatib berilgan.Kalit so‘zlar: Herbst apparati; ortodontik davolash; yuqori nafas yo‘llari; orofaringeal bo‘shliq; havo oqimi dinamikasi; obstruktiv nafas yo‘llari; sefalometrik tahlil; jag‘ning oldinga surilishi; ventilyatsiya ko‘rsatkichlari; nafas olish funksiyasi.
Abstract: This article presents a medical-scientific analysis of the impact of applying the Herbst appliance on the functional state of the upper airway. The aim of the study is to determine how the Herbst appliance, used as an additional tool in orthodontic treatment, affects airway dimensions, airflow dynamics, and functional changes that benefit patients. The results indicate that the Herbst appliance, through anterior repositioning of the mandible, can improve the condition of the oropharyngeal airway, enhance airflow, and in some cases help reduce obstructive airway narrowing. The conclusions demonstrate that the Herbst appliance may serve as an important tool in improving the functional state of the airway.
Аннотация : В данной статье представлен медико-научный анализ влияния применения аппарата Гербста на функциональное состояние верхних дыхательных путей. Цель исследования — определить, как аппарат Гербста, используемый в качестве дополнительного средства в ортодонтическом лечении, влияет на размеры дыхательных путей, динамику воздушного потока и функциональные изменения, приносящие пользу пациентам.Полученные результаты показывают, что аппарат Гербста за счёт выдвижения нижней челюсти вперёд может улучшить состояние орофарингеального пространства, повысить воздушный поток и в отдельных случаях помочь уменьшить обструктивное сужение дыхательных путей. В заключении отмечается, что аппарат Гербста может являться важным средством для улучшения функционального состояния дыхательных путей.Ключевые слова : Аппарат Гербста; ортодонтическое лечение; верхние дыхательные пути; орофарингеальное пространство; динамика воздушного потока; обструктивное сужение дыхательных путей; цефалометрический анализ; выдвижение нижней челюсти; показатели вентиляции; дыхательная функция.
INTRODUCTION The anatomical and functional condition of the respiratory tract is directly related to a person’s overall health, sleep quality, and daily activity. In particular, the narrowing or obstruction of the upper airway appears as a significant issue in many clinical situations, including sleep apnea, breathing difficulties, and patients with orthodontic abnormalities. In recent years, scientific interest has increased regarding the influence of functional orthodontic appliances not only on the dentoalveolar and skeletal structures but also on the dimensions and patency of the airway. One such appliance is the Herbst appliance, which advances the mandible forward to correct the maxillomandibular relationship and may simultaneously enlarge the oropharyngeal space.
Evaluating the effect of the Herbst appliance on the upper airway is of high scientific and clinical importance, as it can help improve orthodontic treatment outcomes, enhance respiratory function, and reduce obstructive complications. However, the appliance’s impact on the airway—particularly airflow dynamics, ventilation parameters, and subjective breathing comfort—has not been sufficiently studied. Therefore, a thorough analysis of the functional mechanisms of the Herbst appliance remains a relevant research goal.
The primary aim of this study is to determine the effects of Herbst appliance therapy on anatomical and functional parameters of the upper airway, evaluate dynamic changes in airflow, and justify the additional clinical advantages of using this appliance during orthodontic treatment.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Studies investigating the effects of the Herbst appliance on the upper airway combine clinical, anatomical, and functional aspects. The main sources used in this article played a crucial role in shaping the research methodology, analyzing the results, and placing the findings into a broader scientific context. Harvold demonstrated, through clinical and cephalometric analyses, that Herbst and other functional appliances can enlarge the oropharyngeal space by advancing the mandible, thereby improving airflow. Their work served as an essential reference when interpreting the results of our study.
Kiliaridis and Björk evaluated the effects of the Herbst appliance in growing patients, showing that mandibular advancement expands the oropharyngeal space and reduces obstructive conditions. Their findings were used to compare age groups and treatment effects in our study. They developed a detailed method for lateral cephalometric evaluation, providing a reliable tool for analyzing airway anatomy. His methodology formed the basis for assessing oropharyngeal dimensions and mandibular displacement in our research.
Ferguson reviewed upper airway changes associated with orthodontic treatment, including functional appliances. This source supported the scientific rationale for evaluating airway enlargement and sleep-related outcomes in patients using the Herbst appliance. Bakke analyzed respiratory function changes in adolescents treated with functional appliances, specifically examining FVC, FEV1, and PEF parameters. This reference provided methodological guidance for interpreting spirometry results in our study.
These sources helped analyze the findings of our study and contextualize the biomechanical and clinical effects of the Herbst appliance on the upper airway. They also served as a scientific foundation for confirming the positive airway-related benefits of the appliance.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
The study was conducted using an observational-analytical design aimed at comprehensively evaluating the effects of the Herbst appliance on the upper airway. The methodology included the following stages:
1. Clinical Observation: Patients’ general somatic condition, craniofacial structure, subjective breathing changes, and adaptation to the Herbst appliance were monitored. An individual clinical chart was prepared for each patient.
2. Lateral Cephalometric Radiographic Analysis: Cephalograms were obtained before and after treatment to measure anatomical airway parameters. The following measurements were recorded: Oropharyngeal space width Anteroposterior and vertical airway of mandibular advancement Functional skeletal changes
3. Spirometry and Ventilation Assessment: Pulmonary function was evaluated with a spirometric device measuring: FVC (Forced Vital Capacity)FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second)PEF (Peak Expiratory Flow)Airflow resistance index Results were compared before treatment and after 6–10 months of Herbst appliance therapy.
4. Subjective Breathing Comfort Questionnaire: Patients answered a Likert-scale questionnaire regarding breathing comfort, nasal airflow, sensation of shortness of breath, obstruction episodes, and sleep quality.
5. Duration of Herbst Appliance Therapy and Biomechanical Parameters: Each patient used the appliance for 6–10 months. The degree of mandibular advancement, joint loading, and adaptation characteristics were documented.
6. Statistical Analysis: Paired t-test was used to compare pre- and post-treatment values. Correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the relationship between airway enlargement and spirometric outcomes.
RESULTS
The findings of the study were based on clinical observation, cephalometric analysis, spirometry, and patient-reported outcomes.
1. Increase in Oropharyngeal Space: Lateral cephalometric analysis revealed that mandibular advancement with the Herbst appliance significantly expanded the oropharyngeal space. The average increase was 2.3 mm, with the most notable changes seen in the lower airway segment.
2. Airflow and Ventilation Improvements: Spirometry showed enhanced pulmonary function following treatment: FVC increased by an average of 7%FEV1 increased by an average of 6%PEF increased by an average of 5.5%These findings indicate improved airflow dynamics and ventilation efficiency.
3. Subjective Breathing Comfort: 72% of patients reported easier breathing 65% reported improved sleep quality 58% experienced reduced sensations of obstruction or choking
4. Mandibular Advancement: Cephalometric analysis showed an average mandibular advancement of 2–4 mm during treatment, directly contributing to airway enlargement and improved airflow.
5. Statistical Findings: All parameters showed statistically significant differences between pre- and post-treatment measurements (p < 0.05). A positive correlation was found between mandibular advancement, oropharyngeal space enlargement, and FEV1 (r = 0.68, p < 0.01).
CONCLUSION
The results demonstrate that during orthodontic treatment, the Herbst appliance is effective not only in correcting dentoskeletal discrepancies but also in improving upper airway function. Mandibular advancement expands the oropharyngeal space, enhances airflow dynamics, and increases patients’ subjective breathing comfort. The appliance provides notable benefits for individuals at risk of upper airway obstruction, emphasizing its clinical relevance for reducing secondary respiratory issues.
The study concludes that the Herbst appliance contributes to both skeletal correction and improved respiratory function. Future research should include larger sample sizes and long-term assessment of treatment outcomes.
REFERENCES
Bakke, M., Espeland, L., & Krogstad, O. (1995). Functional appliances and respiratory function in adolescents. European Journal of Orthodontics, 17(1), 45–53.
Https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/17.1.45Ferguson, K. A., Carskadon, M. A., & Millman, R. P. (2006). Upper airway changes with orthodontic treatment: A review. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 10(2), 107–123. Https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2005.08.003Harvold, E. P., Tomer, B. S., & Vargervik, K. (2000). Functional appliances and airway changes in orthodontics. American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 118(2), 152–159. Https://doi.org/10.1016/S0889-5406(00)70391-8Kiliaridis, S., & Björk, A. (1986). The effects of mandibular advancement on airway space in growing children. European Journal of Orthodontics, 8(2), 95–104.
Https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/8.2.95Mcnamara, J. A., Jr. (1981). A method of cephalometric evaluation. American Journal of Orthodontics, 80(4), 505–522. Https://doi.org/10.1016/0002-9416(81)90238-3Pancherz, H. (1997). The mechanism of Class II correction in Herbst appliance treatment. Seminars in Orthodontics, 3(4), 214–224. Https://doi.org/10.1016/S1073-8746(97)80008-5Valiathan, M., & Bock, N. (2010). Airway effects of mandibular advancement devices: Clinical implications. Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, 44(5), 295–302.
Cal Performances presents The 4th Witch, November 22, 2025 at Zellerbach Hall
(credit: Courtesy of Manual Cinema)
Witching Hour
The 4th Witch
Manual Cinema
Zellerbach Hall
University of California, Berkeley
Reviewed by Christopher Bernard
For (frustratingly) one lonely, tantalizing performance, Cal Performances, in co-commission and as part of its “Illuminations: Exile and Sanctuary” series, brought the bright good witches of Chicago’s Manual Cinema on a recent Saturday evening for a brew of witchery and magic that they, and they alone, are (in this apprentice wizard’s experience, anyway) uniquely qualified to provide.
I say frustratingly because I can’t understand how this company’s brilliant toilers, who spent a year creating a compact music-filled masterpiece of puppetry, handicraft, cinema and wonder, can’t have been given a full weekend among us: the hall was packed, riveted to marvels of stagecraft and story-telling, without a pixel or a bow to “slop” in sight, and few left for the fascinated Q&A that followed. When something this fine, brave, and wondrous blazes across the Bay Area’s sky like a comet blithely visiting from a neighboring universe, one can hardly settle for a single, dazzling show – no!
It’s not as if the company were new here and on probation: they brought us a scintillating Ada/Ava in the millennium before Covid (circa 2017, to be precise). The 4th Witch is even finer, and marks one of the peaks in Bay Area performance since then. For those new to Manual Cinema, a brief description may be in order. The creative heart of the company is given to inventing live performances of puppetry, hand-crafted backgrounds, body prostheses, and props and the techniques of shadow plays projected onto large screens and accompanied by live music.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the performance is that, rather than seeing only the end result onscreen, we also see, in the background onstage, the combined actions of actors, puppets, prop managers, projectors, and musicians as they bring the final result about. It’s a bit like a combination of Bunraku puppeteering and an open kitchen at a small five-star restaurant. Far from undermining the magic, it paradoxically makes the end result seem like pure alchemy, as the mind is cast into the liminal space between the quotidian reality and the magical effect. The result is a profoundly poetic form of animation that has the high-wire thrills of live performance.
The premise of Saturday’s show is as beautiful in its simplicity as it is timely without being brow-beating. As described by one of the members in the Q&A, they took a page from Tom Stoppard’s famous play from the 1960s, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead, which retells the story of Hamlet through the eyes of his half-clueless, half-traitorous school fellows, and reimagined another famous play by the Bard – in this case, Macbeth , though, in keeping with sacred theatrical tradition, the tragedy is referred to onstage only as “the Scottish play”– from the point of view of one of the Thane of Cawdor’s victims.
The story is updated to an imaginary, mid-twentieth-century war in a French-speaking country, and the victim is a young girl whose parents run a little restaurant in a town piled up a steep, isolated hill, much like Mont-Saint-Michel on the Normandy coast of France. The girl’s parents are killed in a raid by Macbeth’s air force. The town is left in ruins, and she runs away after a futile attempt to bring down the mocking, glow-eyed, gas-masked, Darth Vader-like Macbeth by striking him with her stuffed bunny rabbit, her sole possession saved from the wreckage of her home.
Lost in the surrounding forest, wandering for days, reduced to hunger and rags, she discovers a mysterious house, where she is met by a sinister old woman who takes her in and sets her to work. The old lady turns out, naturally, to be a witch – indeed, she is one of three, magically embodied in the one, who have a mysterious relation to Macbeth and his powers, a relation that shall not be revealed here, for those seeking spoilers. After the girl, taking a sip of a spell-casting soup, has a sorcerer’s apprentice moment in the witch’s kitchen, the old one decides to teach her witches’ ways – a fourth to add to the three.
And the powers in magic that the girl gains – black as the night, from making magic potions from mushrooms of the forest, to night flying on broomsticks, to commanding daggers to fly to the hearts of their victims – feed the dreams she cultivates of revenge against the murderer of her parents. We’ll leave it at that.
Whoever knows “the Scottish play” can guess much, but not everything: not how famous elements of the play – from floating daggers to the bitter washing of hands, from the assassinations of kings to the executions of assassins – are mixed and blended, with imagination and wit, nor how the amalgam of the imaginary, the remembered, and the hoped for is finally annealed into a satisfying whole – a Gesamtkunstwerk (forgive my German) held light and bright, from acting as rich as a puppet’s to puppetry as nuanced as a great actor’s, to potently low-tech sound design and music from a trio of instrumentalists seconding as vocalists, to world-creating as lyrical and witty as it is suggestive of its own self-contained universe.
Play on, Manual Cinema! And blessed be those Who bring ye back for more than one more show!
Christopher Bernard is an award-winning poet, novelist, playwright, and essayist. His most recent book is The Beauty of Matter: A Pagan’s Verses for a Mystic Idler. 2025 is the twentieth anniversary of the publication of his celebrated debut novel, A Spy in the Ruins.
Welcome to November’s second issue of Synchronized Chaos Magazine! This month’s issue, Throughlines, contains a wide variety of submissions in a diverse array of styles on many different topics.
That said, there are a few common narrative motifs that emerge and return throughout this issue: pride in and reclaiming of culture, family, parental, and romantic love, artistic craft and creativity, and resilience and determination to achieve one’s dreams.
Olga Levadnaya reflects on how people build new memories and add to the fabric of history in elegant and old cities. Dr. Reda Abdel-Rahim highlights the wonder of the Great Egyptian Museum to showcase history and archaeology. Maftuna Rustamova regales us with her pride in her national Uzbek flag.
We can celebrate and take joy in cultures other than our own. Tourist Anna Keiko poetizes with grace and warmth on the beauty she finds in French society and culture. Maftuna Davlatova traces the development of tourism as an industry in Uzbekistan. Solijonova Dildorakhon outlines methods to improve the service and efficacy of Uzbekistan’s tourism industry.
Jacques Fleury reviews the Boston Center for the Arts’ production of Kim’s Convenience, a play about a Korean immigrant family’s convenience store that speaks to what it means to become a family and how that meaning changes over time.
Rustamova Shakhnoza’s poignant stories celebrate patience, dedication, and intergenerational family love. James Whitehead embraces his American girlfriend while contemplating American vintage art. Izabela Zubko plays in her poetry with love and memory. Royal Rhodes speaks in a reserved, thoughtful manner about memory and nostalgia: trick-or-treating, aging photos and furniture, notable storms.
Nozanin Bahodirova links the Uzbek language and the Uzbek culture, advocating the preservation of both. Zarina Murodova discusses possible roles for technology in language learning. Sevinch Hoshimova outlines advantages and disadvantages of online education and advocates for a balance between screens and traditional classrooms. Tuchiyeva Dilso’z discusses the emerging role of AI technology in student learning. Rayhona Nurdinjonova discusses potential roles for artificial intelligence in foreign language instruction. Kamolova Mashhura compares the possibilities and drawbacks of digital and in-person learning. Sotivoldiyeva Nargiza Shokirjon traces the effects of increased global migration and communications technologies on the field of linguistics. G’ulomova Rukhshona outlines evidence-based teaching methodologies for primary school students to learn their native languages.
Nurmetova Orzu points out the importance of and methods for teaching young children their native language. Dildora Saidjonova explores various methods to learn foreign languages. Khasanova Azizabonu highlights the presence of similar cognate words in English and Uzbek. Maftuna Hayitboyeva outlines the importance of grammar instruction in many different theories of language learning. G’afforova Hadichaxon highlights insights from philosophy that can inform and enhance language learning classrooms. Isaac Aju pays tribute to a special teacher who inspired his studies. Sobirjonova Rayhona pays tribute to a special teacher who possessed compassion and dedication. Jumanazarova Zuxra outlines fresh strategies for teaching language to young children.
Oynur Azimova speaks to the power of literature to inspire emotional resonance and creativity. Faleeha Hassan suggests ways to get beyond initial disinterest to find meaning in seemingly boring novels.
Horror writer Kandy Fontaine puts forth an artist’s manifesto about the complex female characters she creates and how that sets her apart from other writers. Alan Catlin contributes sketches of the soft and vulnerable underbelly of life: refugees, the homeless, bioluminescence, long-disused lighthouses, birds of prey without enough food. Luis Fernando Quiroz captures a witch at the very moment when her powers are interrupted at the break of dawn, revealing character while capturing a bit about the limits of anyone’s power in the face of a complex and cyclical world.
Shahina Olimova honors the poetic legacy of Uzbek writer Alexander Feinberg, who captured the national character and became internationally known. Odina Bahodirova also pays tribute to the legacy of Uzbek poet Alexander Feinberg: his attention to details of craft, his integration of feeling and form, his capturing of ordinary Uzbek life. Journalist Jakhongir Nomozov interviews Azerbaijani writer and academic Vuqar Akhmed about how childhood, patriotism, classic literature, and the methods of scientific research all inspire his own work and that of many other modern Azeri writers. Choriyeva Oynur celebrates the poetic heritage of Uzbek writer Zulfiya Isroilov and the tenderness and beauty of her work.
Abdukahhorova Gulhayo honors the tender spirit of Otkir Hoshimov’s The Works of the World, a collection of short stories about mothers. Zarina O’rinboyeva highlights the perseverance and accomplishments of a young and hardworking Uzbek girl and her caring mother. Hassan Musa Dakasku celebrates a mother’s love and kindness. Fiza Amir’s short story evokes the joy and wonder of maternal love and early childhood. Hassan Musa Dakasku celebrates a mother’s love and kindness. Shokhida Nazirova highlights the psychological and physical health benefits of breastfeeding for parents and infants. Abdukakhorova Gulhayo highlights Islamic teachings about respect for parents.
Moustapha Misau’s poetry celebrates romantic love, before and after death. James Tian urges us to love and bless and care for the living while we still have them with us. Tea Russo’s piece highlights the absence of a family member by showing us various unusual things and people included during a time of grief. Taylor Dibbert reflects on how he still misses his beloved dog London. Jelvin Gipson depicts a woman’s internal sorrow over a heartbreak.
Turkan Ergor reflects on how nothing lasts forever, a lesson illustrated in nature. Christina Chin’s haiku dramatize how nature continually changes: someone’s always moving, being born, or dying. Mahbub Alam revels in the beauty of nature, in the elegance of snails in a slough. Dessy Tsvetkova revels in going outdoors on a brilliant sunny day. Aura Echeverri Uribe laments the environmental destruction of a natural mountain landscape. Dildora Xojyozova discusses the growing consciousness of tourists about traveling to scenic areas in ways that respect and protect nature. Yangibiyeva Iroda emphasizes the need for student and public education on environmental protection. Brian Barbeito reflects on the state of peace he finds as a hiker in deserted brown fall marshlands. Sayani Mukherjee recollects the many sights and sounds of a grove of trees near the ocean.
Bill Tope’s feline narrator, Felix, chronicles his life and times with his favorite ‘two-leggers.’ Maria Cecilia Mazza describes the beginning of another cross-species emotional connection, between a human and a robot. Eva Petropoulou Lianou encourages us to preserve the core of what makes us human as artificial intelligence begins to take over human activities: love, friendship, and hope.
Adrina Esparas-Hope explores the multifaceted nature of the metaphorical human heart. Rus Khomutoff brings us to a state of ecstasy that just elides reason. Stykes Wildee incorporates a fresh and wild sound into his rock compositions. Mark Young’s artistry blends the carefully controlled and the wild and vast.
Harry Stammer plays with traditional format, assembling his work from an assortment of scrap punctuation and gathered semiotics. Patrick Sweeney regales us with morsels of short-form that inspire us to imagine a scene or mood. Ari Nystrom-Rice serenades us with a rollicking wave of party sound. Darren Demaree contributes a bit of whimsy to his Dickinson-esque poems for his wife Emily. Jim Meirose presents a hodgepodge of radio signal and static as sports players stop for a bit to listen.
Duane Vorhees poetizes in a longer format on history, mythology, and sensuality with a touch of whimsy. Tanisha Keefe describes various aspects of human relationships and love: steady friendship, recovery after abuse and loss, self-love and self-respect. Kassandra Aguilera steps out of the circus of a failed relationship that never materialized into what she hoped.
Eleanor Hill’s piece provides a dark and visceral take on Cinderella, illustrating stepping into a glass slipper that doesn’t fit. Daniela Chourio-Soto renders subjugation, repression, isolation, and immobilization into intense physical experiences. Nicholas Gunther describes a state of stasis, mental purgatory. J.J. Campbell brings his brand of wry sadness, humor, and resignation for a fresh set of poems. Habiba Malumfashi’s poetry explores how home can both welcome and embrace and trap and imprison. Khadija Ismail spotlights the pain many women endure due to intimate partner violence and urges us not to excuse it because of religion or culture. Bill Tope’s poem dramatizes the pain of sexual abuse survivors in a world denying them agency.
Dr. Jernail S. Anand highlights the value of compassionate and ethical living, causing no harm to self or others, as opposed to simple rule following. Perwaiz Shaharyar puts forth a plea to the world’s leaders to choose peace. Dr. Ashok Kumar calls for peace, unity, and oneness among humanity. Rand Morsy calls the world and humanity to peace. Andres Loriente acknowledges the unity of the world’s people, how we are more alike due to common experiences than we are different because of race. Dianne Reeves Angel’s short story illuminates how she began to understand and oppose the injustices in South Africa while in the country making what was going to be a glamorous film.
Najmiddinova Shahinabonu encourages us to pursue virtues such as perseverance, resilience, and family love, even more than we strive for riches. Luz Myriam Moreno Puerta speaks to overcoming rejection with perseverance. Zamira Moldiyeva Bahodirovna speculates on the psychology behind why we remember negative experiences more so than positive ones and encourages us to strive for mental and emotional balance. Wansoo Kim sends up poems of personal, social, and natural hope and renewal.
Zikrillo Latipov’s short story highlights the value of our hopes and dreams. Bekturdiyeva Nargizabonu emphasizes the importance of youth to society and therefore, the responsibilities of young people to learn and contribute. Aisha MLabo reflects on the inner drive and energy in the heart of a young person. Guzliebo Matniyozova rededicates herself to self-discipline and self-improvement as a writer and a student. Dilnoza Rakhimova celebrates her personal journey towards academic and professional success. Amonboyeva Shahnoza Yusupboy speaks to how one can build lifelong character through the habits one develops as a student. Dildora Toshtemirova urges people to have perseverance in pursuing their dreams.
Omonova Shakhzoda considers how extracurricular activities shape student leaders. Priyanka Neogi celebrates the many women joining the ranks of cricket players. Nidia Garcia speaks to an artistic partnership between a musician and her violin.
Z.I. Mahmud highlights the artistry of older American cinema, some iconic acting performances in particular. Actor and critic Federico Wardal spotlights the movie in which he most recently appears, Anita, which is being shown in San Francisco and receiving the Italian Courage for Freedom film award.
Film is one form of human creative endeavor, and there are many more we celebrate in this issue. Sotvoldiyeva Muslima affirms the crucial nature of the rule of law to a civilized society. Odilova Odinakhon discusses the need for lawyers to receive continuing education. Aziza Toshpo’latova goes in depth about the roles and responsibilities of translators and proposes ways to strengthen the field. Emran Emon presents himself to the world as a qualified international journalist. Boboqulova Durdona presents technical solutions for improving the efficiency of the electrical grid in Uzbekistan. Nordona Norqulova outlines problems with and suggests solutions for the administration of Uzbek public institutions.
Our knowledge can enhance our capacities for protection and wisdom as well as for expansive creation. Baxronova Vasila urges moderation in prescription of antibiotics to children. Nurboboyeva Dilshoda’s essay highlights strategies to intervene and lessen the risk of youth suicide in our age of social media. Nazirova Madinakhon outlines strategies for protecting our digital data from online miscreants.
EFL teacher of Uzbekistan State World Language University
Olimova Shahina Botirjon qizi
Student of Uzbekistan State World Language University
Abstract: Alexandr Feinberg is a national poet, connector of Uzbek and Russian literature. The poet wrote not only about Uzbek culture, nationality and history but also the personality and character of the Uzbek people. Because of his importance, his poems became popular among other nations. He translated Uzbek poems and novels that helped Russian people to get to know Uzbek literature.
Аннотация: Александр Файнберг – народный поэт, связующее звено узбекской и русской литературы. Поэт писал не только об узбекской культуре, национальности и истории, но и о личности и характере узбекского народа. Благодаря своей значимости его стихи стали популярными среди других народов. Он переводил узбекские поэмы и романы, что способствовало знакомству россиян с узбекской литературой.
Annotatsiya: Aleksandr Faynberg — xalq shoiri, oʻzbek va rus adabiyotining bogʻlovchisi. Shoir nafaqat o‘zbek madaniyati, millati, tarixi, balki o‘zbek xalqining shaxsiyati va xarakteri haqida ham yozgan. Ahamiyati tufayli uning she’rlari boshqa xalqlar orasida mashhur bo’ldi. U rus xalqining oʻzbek adabiyoti bilan yaqindan tanishishiga xizmat qilgan oʻzbek sheʼr va romanlarini tarjima qilgan.Key words: uzbek literature, nationality, connection between literatureКлючевые слова: узбекская литература, национальность, связь между литературами
Tayanch so‘zlar: o‘zbek adabiyoti, millat, adabiyot o‘rtasidagi bog‘liqlik
Introduction: Various measures have been taken in Uzbekistan to preserve the literary heritage of Alexandr Feinberg and perpetuate his name. In 2004, he was awarded the title of People’s Poet of Uzbekistan, and in 1994, the title of Honored Worker of Culture of Uzbekistan was given to him. Additionally, a monument to Alexander Feinberg was erected in recognition of his important practical work to enhance the prestige of our homeland in the international arena and strengthen cultural ties between the Russian and Uzbek people through his work.
Many events, competitions and conferences dedicated to the life of the writer, his creative legacy and his contribution to the spiritual world of our people are being held at UzSWLU. During the events, participants read and discuss Alexander Feinberg’s poems, learn about his life, and analyze his works. Moreover, the university organizes an Alexandr Feinberg stipendium every year to award students for their scientific work. Various events related to Alexander Feinberg are held in the Alley of Writers.
I am drifting, love, far away, Smoke rises from distant fires. A star takes a kiss from you, From this shore, I depart today. Along the river flows the untamed stream, You gaze at the sky — at the birds that gleam. Even the waves seem to feel the pain of parting, As if they embrace each other, softly departing.
Alexander Feinberg, as an Uzbek and Russian poet, won many hearts with his creativity and poetry. He was able to show the nationality and culture of the Uzbek people not only in Uzbek literature, but also in his poems, glorifying the Uzbek people in Russian literature. The immortal creativity of the writer, his works translated and set to music, will live forever in our hearts.
