Dr. Jernail Singh Anand’s Geet: The Unsung Song of Eternity is a remarkable modern epic that showcases his prowess as a poet, philosopher, and literary innovator. This work is often described as a sequel to John Milton’s Paradise Lost, but it carves its own distinct path by placing Dr. Faustus, rather than Adam, at the center of its narrative. Anand reimagines the Renaissance hero as a prototype of modern humanity, grappling with existential dilemmas in a world marked by spiritual and moral decay.
The epic explores the complex relationship between man and divinity, inverting Milton’s intent to “justify the ways of God to Man” by instead questioning the ways of man to God. It delves into the struggles of contemporary existence, reflecting on how knowledge, ambition, and the passage of time have led to a deterioration of the human spirit. Anand’s Faustus embodies the modern individual—brilliant yet flawed, seeking meaning in a universe that often feels indifferent.
What sets Geet apart is its ambitious scope and philosophical depth. Anand blends Eastern and Western literary traditions, drawing from his Punjabi roots and the broader Indian cultural heritage while engaging with the Western canon. The work is not merely a retelling but a reinvention, offering a fresh perspective on timeless themes such as sin, redemption, and the search for eternity. His use of free verse, honed through his study of English literature, allows for a fluid and dynamic exploration of these ideas, unencumbered by rigid form.
Critics and readers have noted the epic’s imaginative power and its ability to resonate with the challenges of the 21st century. It’s a testament to Anand’s vision—a poet who dares to tackle grand narratives in an age where such undertakings are rare. Geet: The Unsung Song of Eternity stands as a bold contribution to world literature, inviting reflection on humanity’s place in the cosmic order and cementing Anand’s reputation as a significant voice in modern poetry.
Appreciation by Grock
SECTION B
A PAPER ON GEET was presented by Dr Selvin Vedamanickam, a free thinker
The Homo Sacer in J S Anand’s Geet:
A Norm Violated to Establish Another Norm
THE HOMO SACER IN J.S . ANAND’S GEET ;
A NORM VIOLATED TO ESTABLISH ANOTHER NORM
Dr. Selvin Vedamanickam
Unaffiliated Free Thinker
Pondicherry
The paper starts with an attempt to study the current significance of the terms “human being”, “being human’ and “homo sacer” in J S Anand’s Geet. Even though the work claims to be a sequel, it is filled with fresh beginnings and new point of departures. What is astounding is its political, economical, sociocultural and literary relevance to the present day world even when dealing with a special binary of geographical vs. non-geographical space. Often the illusionary nature of representing the world as “good, true and beautiful” has been comfortably forgotten by both literary artists and other art form practitioners. Apart from representing a real and/or imaginary world either it be symbolical/allegorical, literature has to posit a viable(?) world. Even the Library Intellectuals or the Campus Hoppers have talked of the modern man only in the light of the metropolitan hyper-individuals and seem to conveniently omit the existential predicament of the sub-human man whose life is increasingly becoming bare and he himself becoming a rare being at the verge of extinction under the clutches of the privileged, super-civilized races.
The paper also tries to question certain key critical concepts (which are rarefied post-modern issues) such as irony, indeterminacy, self-reflexivity which are mere ‘thought representations’ of ultra-civilized man’. The paper calls for an understanding and literary representation of the equal importance of “an ironic sensibility” and “an empathetic sensibility” in capturing the plight of the sub-human common man, thus leading to empathetic activism to alleviate the sufferings of the bare/rare beings.
Submitted for the Two -Day International Conference on International Seminar on Novel Issues in Indian Writing in English (JKC College, Guntur, 23, 24 Feb 2018)
in the outside world — all my sins in red and white
nel mondo esterno: rosso su bianco tutti i miei peccati
*
at the nursing home — the old lady asleep with a packed suitcase
all’ospizio: la vecchia dorme con la valigia pronta
*
waiting for death the cat passes by to say hi
aspettando la morte il gatto passa per un salutino
*
Via Marsala — among the pigeons the bum talks to himself
Via Marsala: tra i piccioni il barbone parla da solo
*
the dog’s moaning is persistent — my fate
il lamento del cane è persistente: il mio destino
*
after sleeping on it I haven’t solved it yet — undertow of cars
dormendoci su non ho ancora risolto: risacca d’auto
*
in the face of my decline the bats laugh their jaws off
di fronte al mio declino i pipistrelli si sganasciano
*
end of April — a black trash bag dragged by the wind
fine d’aprile: la busta nera trascinata dal vento
Maurizio Brancaleoni is a poet and translator. He lives near Rome, Italy. His haiku have appeared in a wide variety of journals over the past few years. Maurizio manages “Leisure Spot”, a bilingual blog where he posts interviews, reviews and translations: https://leisurespotblog.blogspot.com/p/interviste-e-recensioni-interviews-and.html
Using artificial intelligence capabilities to improve the quality of professional training of students
Student of the Andijan State Institute of Foreign Languages
Tursunkhujayeva Malika
abdusamadovnamalika@gmail.com
+998932412315
Аннотация. В данной статье анализируется возможность эффективного использования технологий искусственного интеллекта (СИ) в процессе профессиональной подготовки студентов. Рассматривается роль обучающих платформ на основе искусственного интеллекта, виртуальных тренажеров и кастомизированных систем образования в повышении качества образования. В нем также подчеркивается роль технологии СИ в развитии профессиональных навыков студентов, создании индивидуализированных программ обучения и автоматизации процесса обучения. Результаты исследования свидетельствуют о том, что широкое внедрение искусственного интеллекта в сферу образования является важным фактором подготовки студентов как конкурентоспособных кадров.
Annotation. This article analyzes the possibility of effective use of artificial intelligence (SI) technologies in the process of professional preparation of students. The role of artificial intelligence-based learning platforms, virtual simulators, and customized education systems in improving the quality of education is examined. It also highlights the role of SI technology in the development of students’ professional skills, the creation of individualized training programs and the automation of the learning process. The results of the study indicate that the widespread introduction of artificial intelligence in the field of education is an important factor in preparing students as competitive personnel.
Keywords: artificial intelligence, vocational training, digital learning, individual learning, automation.
Today, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are rapidly entering the educational process. They allow individualizing the educational process, assessing students’ knowledge and improving their professional skills. The use of AI tools is especially important in vocational training, which helps to connect theoretical knowledge with practical training. The modern education system must adapt to rapid changes and prepare students as competitive specialists. As a result of the integration of AI into the educational process, it has become possible to automate the educational process, strengthen the individual approach, and bring practical training closer to real life. AI technologies are of great importance in the process of vocational training, as they allow creating conditions for students close to a real work environment, making the educational process interactive and personalized.
1. Artificial intelligence and the educational process. The concept of artificial intelligence has a broad meaning, it includes the capabilities of machines such as human thinking, logical analysis, and decision-making. Currently, AI is widely used in the field of education in the following areas: Personalized learning systems – creating an individual curriculum for each student. Intelligent tutors – using automated educational programs to consolidate student knowledge. Virtual laboratories – conducting practical training in engineering, medicine, and other disciplines. AI-based analysis and monitoring – assessing student knowledge and monitoring the dynamics of their growth. AI is widely used in the education system in the following areas: Customized educational programs – AI analyzes the student’s level of knowledge and recommends appropriate educational materials. Virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) technologies – allow creating experiences close to real life to develop professional skills. Intelligent tutors – AI-powered tutoring systems effectively increase student learning. Automation of the learning process – Test assignments, essay evaluations, and other learning processes are automated.
2. The role of artificial intelligence in professional training. Professional training should provide students with practical skills along with theoretical knowledge. Artificial intelligence offers the following advantages in this process: Simulation and training systems – Students in medicine, engineering and other fields can gain experience in a virtual environment. Personalization of the learning process – Each student is provided with educational material tailored to their needs. Interactive learning – Students consolidate their knowledge through chatbots, virtual teachers and other technologies.
3. Assessment and monitoring of results using artificial intelligence. Assessment systems based on AI allow for a more accurate and rapid assessment of student knowledge. For example: Test systems automatically analyze the student’s level of knowledge. There are systems for assessing essays and written work using AI. It is possible to monitor the dynamics of student learning during the learning process.
4. Problems and solutions in the introduction of artificial intelligence into education. There are some problems in the introduction of AI technologies into education: Technical and infrastructure problems – Many educational institutions do not have sufficient resources to introduce AI technologies. Pedagogical adaptation – Teachers must adapt to working with new technologies. Digital literacy of students and teachers – Students and teachers must have digital skills to use AI technologies. The following measures are proposed to solve the above problems: Development of digital infrastructure in educational institutions. Training teachers in the use of AI technologies. Creation of interactive courses based on AI for students.
Prospects for the use of artificial intelligence in Uzbekistan. The Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On measures to develop artificial intelligence technologies” dated October 6, 2020 noted the need for the widespread introduction of AI technologies into the educational process. In this regard: New specialties in the field of artificial intelligence are being opened at universities. Electronic platforms based on artificial intelligence are being introduced into the education system. New projects are being implemented in collaboration with international organizations. For example, the Tashkent University of Information Technologies (TUIT) and the Muhammad al-Khwarizmi Specialized School have launched training in AI technologies. Distance and mastery-oriented education. Today, many universities and vocational centers are switching to distance learning. The creation of automated distance learning platforms using artificial intelligence will create convenience for students. These systems allow for the delivery of learning materials, automatic checking and grading of homework, and the development of interactive curricula.
In conclusion, the use of artificial intelligence technologies is of great importance in improving the quality of students’ professional training. It helps to effectively organize the educational process by creating personalized learning, virtual laboratories, automated analysis systems, and interactive learning environments.
A number of reforms are being implemented in the education system of Uzbekistan to introduce the capabilities of artificial intelligence. In particular, new specialties are being opened at universities, distance learning platforms are being developed, and international cooperation is being established. This will serve to train qualified, modern technology-savvy, and competitive personnel in the future.
Therefore, it is necessary to continue consistent measures to further introduce artificial intelligence into the educational process, enrich curricula with innovative approaches, and prepare students for modern professions. This will have a positive impact on the sustainable development of the economy and science of our country
Used literature
1 .Russell, S., & Norvig, P. (2021). Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach. Pearson.
2. Luckin, R. (2018). Machine Learning and Human Intelligence: The Future of Education for the 21st Century. UCL Press.
3. Kaplan, A., & Haenlein, M. (2019). Rethinking AI: How Artificial Intelligence is Changing the World. Business Horizons.
4. UNESCO (2022). Artificial Intelligence and Education: Guidance for Policy-Makers.
5. Woolf, B. P. (2020). Building Intelligent Interactive Tutors: Student-Centered Strategies for Revolutionizing E-Learning. Morgan Kaufmann.
6. Anderson, J. R. (2020). Cognitive Psychology and Its Implications. Worth Publishers.
7. Decision of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, October 6, 2020.
8. S. K. Kenjayev, “Information Technologies and the Educational System”, Tashkent, 2021.
9. M. A. Usmanov, “Digital Education and Artificial Intelligence”, Tashkent, 2022. Luckin, R. (2018).
10. AI for Learning: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Education. Routledge.
11. Woolf, B. P. (2020). Building Intelligent Tutoring Systems. Morgan Kaufmann.
12. OECD (2021). AI in Education: Challenges and Opportunities. Paris: OECD Publishing.
I see that you write poetry in recognizable and named forms: haikus, rengas, and others. Why do you choose those forms? Does it depend on the poem?
There’s something self-fulfilling about Japanese poetry form to me; I easily identify with it, it makes me one with nature, hence I exist with utter independence with the fowls of the air, the flowers and trees, and the changing seasons of mankind. When I write I catch the spirit, thus I flow where the poems want me to go, I don’t choose.
Why do you choose to write in form at all? Some artists have broken away from traditional form, but why do you think form still has value for what you’re hoping to communicate?
I started off with free verse, and that form helps me flow with the natural rhythm, giving me the liberty to express myself, allowing sense of flexibility, creating a conversational and fluid feel. However, the japanese form have improved how I write free verse, if you’ve seen some of my current work, it is infused with tan-renga.
You write collaborative poetry with other artists. How did you meet Christina Chin and others with whom you write, and what does the collaborative process look like? Do you simply trade off and finish each other’s poems, or do you brainstorm a topic and direction first?
Collaborations help me see the world clearly for what it is: “the way you do a thing, is how you will do everything.” The process of collaborations introduces you to a new perspective, and a new way of thinking and approaching things. I love it! My teammate Christina Chin and I met at Lothlorien Poetry Journal where we were both published as per that time. We both write as it comes: I throw her a couple of verses, she finishes it up; she does the same as well. So, that is how we flow — no guidelines — no rules — nothing leads but the spirit of poetry!
What is the literary scene like in Nigeria? What sorts of poems do people enjoy there, and what has it been like to get published there?
I stand to be corrected — traditional form as Haiku, Renga don’t get published here; only free verse form. And as a result, you can see that being a Haiku poet here is highly challenging — and a disservice to one’s career. The literary scene in my homeland is a growing industry that’s in a dire need of government present and support to thrive well in this fast-pacing times — a country that is littered with amazing talents, thus if given the necessary programs and opportunities, these words bursting out of one’s veins will gain wings and flyaway.
What roles do you think poets, and poetry, play in modern global society? Do you have something you hope to accomplish by serving as a poet?
I will begin with Shelley’s idea in ‘The Defense Of Poetry’ 1821, “Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world.” The words and voices of poets have echoed through different times and ages, breaking hurdles and transcending barriers. Poetry can be a powerful teaching tool, that is necessary in enlightening the human body, mind, and spirit. Serving as a poet is a calling that I am magnifying greatly; I want to serve this war-torn world with words that carries beauty and truth. If this is achieved, I am fulfilled, and it will be my crown of laurels.
Who are some other poets or writers you admire, and why?
For the Japanese traditional form I think I admire Matsuo Bashō; I also admire the poet Christopher Ifekandu Okigbo because he died fighting for what he believed in, the independence of Biafra.
What are your next steps, where do you plan to go in the future with your writing?
I want to see the world for what it is. I want poetry to take me to strange places; I want to see different people, learn different languages and dialects and cultures — I want a baptism of full immersion in the only global faith: Poetry.
Uchechukwu Onyedikam is a Nigerian Photographer and, a well-published Poet based in Lagos, Nigeria. His poems have appeared in Amsterdam Quarterly, Brittle Paper, Poetic Africa, Hood Communists, The Hooghly Review, and in different themes of anthology both print and online. He and Christina Chin has co-written and published two poetry chapbooks — Pouring Light On The Hills (December 2022) and Clouds of Pink (March 2024).
He saw the kid who worked the checkout at the convenience store walking down the street, arm in arm, with a girl about his own age, maybe 17. He was a handsome kid. Compared to him, the girl was rather plain, he thought, wondering if people thought the same of him when he was dating his wife, or even now. She was a knockout, his wife. He never asked her if she had dated during their brief separation. He didn’t want to know what they looked like if she had. He wondered if they were sleeping together, the kid and the girl. If we were all contemporaries, he thought, and double dating, people would probably assume his wife, his future wife, was the one dating the checkout kid. He was probably being hard on himself. He was probably a cut above plain.
First Haircut
“The usual,” he told the barber, John.
“Remind me.”
“Number two blade.”
He’d remembered to wear a shirt with a collar. A collar provides a better vehicle than a crew neck for the paper thing they wrap around your neck to keep the hair from falling down your back.
An older man walked into the barbershop. He greeted all the barbers, “Angelo, Vinny, John,” with a nod of the head for each name.
“Have a seat, Tommy,” Vinny, who was available, said, “I’ll be with you in a minute.”
John asked him who he liked in the World Series. Since neither team was local, it wasn’t a big surprise that he and John had different ideas. Tommy chimed in, agreeing with John.
“Put on Sinatra,” Angelo, who was cutting a kid’s hair, yelled over to Vinny, who was at the CD player.
“Eyebrows?” John asked.
“Yeah.” He called them his Brezhnev eyebrows. The barbers were all old enough to get it.
Angelo started singing along with Sinatra, “Come fly with me, let’s fly, let’s fly away,” then said to the kid, “Betcha you never heard that one.” The kid said, “No,” and Angelo laughed.
“Ready to greet the world in style!” John said when the cut was done.
Out of the blue he was struck by a dim memory of his first haircut, his first barbershop haircut. Maybe it was the Sinatra. He remembered sitting in a kid’s barber chair in the form of an elevated red sports car. Or was it a fire truck? He remembered crying.
“What?” he asked John, holding back the tears.
College Days Full of Hope
Reading the obituaries, he discovered one of his favorite college professors had been a Nazi sympathizer. He made coffee, in a French press. As he sipped his coffee, Sumatra Mandheling, which he admired for its boldness, he also read about a man in Cambodia who had won a tarantula-eating contest, the first of its kind. The article conjectured it would become an annual event.
At work that day, he was asked to fill out a self-assessment, an oddly Maoist incursion into American corporate life. He wrote an unqualifiedly rave review of himself, refusing to give his bosses ammunition to use against him. After he had submitted the self-assessment, his thoughts turned to the dead professor. What was that course again? Oh yes, the theatre of cruelty seminar. Looking back, he couldn’t remember anything that hinted at Nazi sympathies.
Wistful for those college days full of hope, he stood up and surveyed a sea of cubicles in which he was but a speck.
