Essay from Jurayeva Barchinoy Boboqulovna

Zulfiyaxonim –A Poet Who Left a Lasting Mark

Zulfiya Isroilova, widely known as Zulfiya, was one of the most respected and loved poets of Uzbekistan. She was born in 1915 in Tashkent, she showed a passion for literature from a young age. Her first poem was published when she was only seventeen years old , marking the beginning of a lifelong dedication to writing. Throughout her life, she not only wrote poetry but also worked as a journalist, editor, and translator. Her contributions left a permanent mark on Uzbek literature and inspired many people.

Zulfiya’s poetry is known for its depth and emotional power. She wrote about love, hope, sorrow, and the struggles of her people, connecting personal feelings with social and historical events. After the early death of her husband, the famous poet Hamid Olimjon, her works became even more expressive and heartfelt. Through her poems, she shared her personal grief and reflected the difficulties faced by society during war and challenging times. Her creativity was not limited to poetry; she also translated works of foreign writers into Uzbek, helping to introduce international literature to her readers.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Zulfiya’s work is her commitment to women’s rights and education. She encouraged young women to express themselves and participate actively in society. Through her poems and journalistic work, she highlighted the value of equality, justice, and moral responsibility. She believed that literature could teach, inspire, and influence positive change in people’s lives. Her efforts earned her prestigious awards, including the title of People’s Poet of Uzbekistan, Hero of Socialist Labor, and international recognition such as the Nilufar Prize.

Zulfiya’s influence continues today. Her poetry remains a source of inspiration for both students and professional writers. She showed that writing is not only an art but also a tool to educate, unite, and heal. Through her legacy, we learn about resilience, compassion, and the importance of cultural heritage. Her life proves that one person’s dedication can leave a lasting impact on society.

In memory of Zulfiya, we honor her creativity, courage, and devotion. Her words continue to live in the hearts of readers, reminding us of the power of literature and the responsibility of artists to inspire others. Zulfiya’s life and work teach that through art, dedication, and empathy, one can make the world a better place. She remains a shining example of how poetry can transcend time, touch lives, and leave an everlasting legacy.

I am Jurayeva Barchinoy Boboqulovna, a second-year student at the University of World Languages in Uzbekistan, majoring in English Philology. I am passionate about poetry, reading, writing, and exploring new ideas. I enjoy creating essays and articles that reflect my thoughts and perspectives on literature, culture, and creative expression.

Essay from Dilafruz Muhammadjonova

ANDIJAN: ON THE CROSSROADS AIMING FOR THE FUTURE

 “My Andijan, which saved my soul there, remained with me…”

  (Babur)

     Uzbekistan is a Motherland that lives forever in our hearts! O dear country, which has captured the morning shimmer of the sun in your orbits, I feel helpless, no matter how many words I find to describe you. You are a sacred land where stars embrace in your mountains, where the wind writes pages in your steppes, and where the breath of life sparkles in your rivers and lakes! Sun particles smile and scatter across your sky. Every morning your dawn breeze creeps through my soul. These breezes feel as if they carry not just the air, but the living breath of history. You are like a perfect picture drawn for the face of the earth; I feel the breath of tranquility at your every point. You are not the pearl of the East; you are the crown set within its bosom! Thousands of dreams blossom in your every inch of soil, and the birds that fly in your sky sing the song of freedom.

     Andijan! The rays of dawn are reflected in your white tunics, the wings of swallows harmonize in your silk belts. You are radiant like a bride whose solar hair is scattered across the sky. You are a miracle that has made both the sun and the stars fall in love with you. You are a mother who bestows hope in the hearts of your children and courage in their gaze.

     In the heart of every person is imprinted the bright image of the land where they were born and raised, where they took their first breath. This image is not only a geographical location but a part of the soul, the beginning of destinies, the first foundation of the future. Andijan, in turn, is the lifeblood of blessed Uzbekistan, a living witness to a thousand years of history, the inspirational abode of the great Mirzo Bobur, the land of hardworking and sincere people, the supporting mountain of the nation. The description of this land, where every inch of soil is kneaded with the traces of history, and every drop is moistened by the sweat of a hardworking farmer’s brow, is beyond an epic poem. My chest is full of pride and honor for growing up under the warm sun of Andijan and being raised among its rich culture and generous people. This is not just a fleeting emotion, but a feeling ingrained in my heart and soul, an eternally connected spirit, a dear fortress to me. It is not only the apple of the eye of the Fergana Valley but also a majestic land standing tall as the Eastern gate of the country, a symbol of the harmony of historical heritage and modern development.

     The great personality who stamped his seal on Andijan’s glory is undoubtedly Zahiriddin Bobur. The great writer of his time, statesman, and great commander, this world conqueror who founded the Mughal Empire in India, was born in the dignified bosom of this land. Talented poets and poetesses, including Nodira and Muhammad Yusuf, the Venerable Jadid Abdulhamid Chulpan, the world-recognized Shaykh Muhammad Sadiq Muhammad Yusuf, Shaykh Hasan, Husayn Yahyo Abdulmajid, and many other scholars and intellectuals originated precisely from this region.

     Andijan is the most invaluable gift nature has bestowed upon the local people. This land, which is one of the most fertile and lush areas of the valley, is deservedly called the “Jewel of the East.” Even the thistle that grows here is a cure for a thousand ailments. The true wealth of the province, I believe, lies in its simple, hardworking, and sincere people. Andijan residents are known for their devotion, sincerity, and hospitality. Their every word and gaze reflect boundless love for the homeland, respect for labor, and gratitude for life. Here, let alone speaking a harsh word to a person seeking refuge, even looking at them coldly is considered a sin. Their tables are always open, and their magical hands are always ready to prepare pilaf.

Their friendly words and unique, sincere dialect are proof of their warm embrace, even for strangers who come from afar. The juicy accent is like a stream rushing through the blood of every Andijan resident. I also speak this dialect, and it always gives me a special warmth and pride.

     Andijan people are very emotional individuals who completely immerse themselves in work, friendship, and even sorrow with their entire being. The neighborhood is the center of life in Andijan. The ties of neighborliness here are extremely strong. There are such close neighbors who share fresh bread when baked, and meat from their meal when cooked, that an unaware person might think they were born from the same mother. Their affection, kindness, and generosity are extraordinarily high. Those who are too shy to address each other as “you” are Andijan residents; those who hold weddings for forty days and forty nights are Andijan residents; it is exactly them who have turned unity and community into a core value! In particular, Andijan is a crossroads of cultures, a magical land where the vigor of people whose hearts are as bright as their faces is reflected, a place upon which the Creator’s gaze has fallen.

     Today’s Andijan fundamentally differs from yesterday’s. The province is known not only for its cotton fields but also as the powerful heart of modern industry. Moreover, Andijan is considered a center of the sacred religion of Islam, a hearth of science and enlightenment. This region has presented countless talented individuals to society—from scholars and philosophers, famous religious figures to undefeated athletes, sharp-penned poets and writers to Honored People’s Artists of Uzbekistan—all have emerged from this land. In the remote villages of the region, there are still countless women and girls faithful to their “paranji”, accomplished reciters of the Quran, as well as students worthy of various named scholarships and honorary titles, striving intensely in the pursuit of knowledge. This is, of course, a vivid proof that the future of Andijan is bright.

Dilafruz Muhammadjonova was born on January 2, 2007, in Qorghontepa District, Andijan Region, Uzbekistan. She is currently a second-year student at the Faculty of Philology of the Uzbekistan National Pedagogical University named after Nizami, majoring in Uzbek Language and Literature Education.

She is proficient in Uzbek, English, Turkish, and French. She holds national certificates in Mother Tongue and Literature as well as English.

Poetry from Qozoqboyeva Husnida

To My Future One.. 

For you, I gave up countless things, So come deserving, my destined one. For you, I kept my soul pure and clean, So keep yourself pure for me, my only one.

Every word within my heart is yours, All my dreams are light that leads to you. I live for you, I long for you, May we meet one day in sacred truth.

Your absence has worn my heart away, I cry your name — where are you now? My waiting eyes are fading day by day, My heart grows tired of asking how.

Even the nights ask of my pain, The stars reflect your gentle face. Each breath repeats your unknown name, Each moment without you leaves a trace.

I watch the roads with endless hope, “Perhaps today you’ll come,” I pray. Waiting for you is my hardest test, But loving you — my brightest fate.

Each dawn I wake with thoughts of you, Each moment dreams your presence near. I place my pain in God’s safe hands, And let my patience conquer fear.

Come blessed like my midnight prayer, Come beautiful like dawn’s first light. Even if late, just come, my love — My heart still waits through darkest night.

But come unwavering, faithful, true, Unchanged by time or passing years. For you, I’ll wait as long as fate allows, Yet come sincere, without fears.

Come loyal, never to be replaced, My lifetime’s lawful, destined part. For you, I’ll wait till endless days, O come, my soulmate, to my heart.

Essay from Rajabova Nozima

Methods of forming knowledge about the concept of “Text” in primary school students

Abdulla Qodiriy Jizzakh State Pedagogical University

Faculty of Preschool and Primary Education

Primary Education

Student of the 1st year, group 811-25

Rajabova Nozima

rajabovanozima635@gmail.com

0009 0000 6161 2148

Annotatsiya:Mazkur maqolada boshlangʻich sinf oʻquvchilarida “Matn” tushunchasi haqida bilimlarni shakllantirish hamda darsni tashkil etish usullari yoritiladi. Maqolaning asosiy maqsadi boʻlajak pedagoglar va oʻqituvchilar uchun boshlangʻich sinflarda “Ona tili” fanini qanday oʻtish toʻgʻrisidagi qarashlarni bayon etishdan iborat. Shu bilan bir qatorda, 1-sinf oʻquvchilarining “Matn” mavzusini tushunishi va chuqur oʻzlashtirishi uchun maxsus metodik tavsiyalar beriladi. Bolalarning dars mashgʻulotlarida zerikib qolmasliklari uchun turli metodlardan foydalanish usullari haqida fikr-mulohazalar keltiriladi.

Kalit soʻzlar: Matn, pedagog, tadqiqot, fikr-mulohaza, metodik tavsiyalar,  dars mashgʻulotlari, oʻqituvchi,  boshlangʻich sinf oʻquvchilari.

Аннотация:В данной статье рассматриваются методы формирования знаний о понятии «Текст» у учащихся начальной школы, а также способы организации урока. Основная цель статьи — раскрыть взгляды будущих педагогов и учителей на преподавание предмета «Родной язык» в начальной школе, а также дать специальные методические рекомендации для учащихся 1-го класса по пониманию и глубокому усвоению темы «Текст». Приводятся мнения о применении различных методик, чтобы дети не скучали на уроках.

Ключевые слова: текст, педагог, исследование, обратная связь, методические рекомендации, уроки, учитель, преподаватель, класс, ученики.

Abstract:This article discusses methods of forming knowledge about the concept of “Text” in primary school students and ways to organize the lesson. The main purpose of the article is to clarify the views of future educators and teachers on how to teach the subject “Mother Tongue” in primary school, as well as to provide special methodological recommendations for 1st grade students to understand and deeply master the topic “Text.” Opinions are given on the use of various methods so that children do not get bored during lessons.

Keywords: Text, pedagogue, research, feedback, methodological recommendations, lessons, teacher, teacher, class students.

Introduction

It is no secret that we have been surprising other countries with our science for centuries. Each era has had its own scientists and philosophers, who left behind disciples and passed on their knowledge to us. It is no exaggeration to say that one of the most pressing issues today is obtaining knowledge, learning professions and teaching them to young people, continuing the tradition of teacher-student relationships.

Our esteemed head of state also noted, not without reason, that “we have set ourselves the great goal of laying the foundation of the Third Renaissance in our country, and for this we must create an environment and conditions that will nurture new Khorezmians, Berunis, Ibn Sina, Ulugbeks, Navoiys, and Baburs.”

Of course, a number of reforms are being implemented in our country in this regard. The main goal of us, educators, is to prepare the necessary personnel for the future generation. In this article, we will outline our recommendations for forming the concept of “Text” in primary school students and gaining in-depth knowledge of this topic.

Review of used literature

It is important for each growing young generation to be able to speak their own language fluently. Therefore, for the good development of speech in children, “Text” and working with it are taught from the 1st grade. In this regard, D. Sh. Yuldasheva’s 1st grade “Mother Language” (Part 1) textbook is an important source for providing students with in-depth knowledge. This textbook provides a number of exercises, and each task encourages the student to think independently. The short and clear rules in the textbook create a basis for children to master the topic without difficulty.

For example, the definition, “A text is made up of sentences. Two or more sentences connected by content are called a text,” forms an initial idea of the text. The brevity and consistency of the rule serve as a foundation for the topics that will be covered later.

In order to educate students, the 2nd grade textbook “Mother Language” by K. Qosimova, S. Fuzailov, and A. Ne’matova, published in 2018, is also being used. This textbook defines a text as follows: “A text is two or more sentences that are interconnected in content. A title can be given to the text.”

The above textbooks are used to teach children today. We will also share our thoughts on how to organize a lesson using these textbooks.

Research methodology

In the 2023 edition of the “Mother Language” textbook, there are several tasks given in accordance with the topic “Text”, and we prepare the way for students to explain the topic by completing these tasks. For example, in exercise 1 of this textbook, a text is given and it is stated that it should be given a suitable title. We, as educators, should not just complete this exercise, but approach this situation creatively. While reading the text, we are also required to directly enter the role and use various pictures to develop imagination in the minds of children. After all, children’s attention is considered to be fast-moving, and they do not pay attention to simple things. Pictures and videos, exhibition materials help increase the creative potential of students. We conducted such a study among students. The main purpose of this study was to determine which way is more effective for students to explain the text. Two parallel classes, 1st “A” and 1st “B”, were given a text on the topic “Wild Forest”. 1st “A” class was shown pictures of various wild animals and had them act out the characters. 1st “B” class was given a simple text.

Results

After a day, each child was asked about their thoughts in order to determine how the text was formed in the students’ memory and imagination. The results of the study showed that students of grade 1 “B” did not fully understand the text, and their understanding of wild animals was not sufficiently formed in their minds. 60-70 percent of students could not remember the text. Students of grade 1 “A” showed excellent results. All children had formed understandings of the text and were able to describe each animal.

Analysis

Our conclusions from the study are as follows:

—It is necessary to organize the lesson without monotony in providing knowledge to students. After all, today’s youth are curious and get bored very quickly.

—During the lesson, it is necessary to effectively use various methods, including video and picture materials. Children’s attention is quickly shifting and often shifts from one thing to another.

—When working with a story or text, if the text is read while entering the images, the expected results will be achieved faster.

Whether we have acquired new knowledge or learned something new, we are not considered to have fully mastered this knowledge until we try it in practice. When we put it into practice, we become one of those who have benefited from this knowledge. Therefore, we should not demand this knowledge from our students without ensuring that they do so in practice. From this perspective, it is appropriate for the teacher to give the children the task of writing a short text about family members.

The text plays an important role in shaping the worldview of students. Each text provides information about an instructive event or about something and an event. It is considered very useful for children who do not have an understanding of this at first. At the same time, the student’s speech becomes fluent. The vocabulary of the Uzbek language increases. Therefore, organizing a lesson using instructive stories and interesting facts in the lesson is an important factor in improving the teacher’s pedagogical skills. During work with students, the teacher should not only impart knowledge, but also develop the skills to apply them in practice. One such exercise is to clarify the extent to which children have mastered the text, requiring each student to sequentially recite information about this text.

During the organization of the lesson, we may encounter a number of problems. In particular, children may not fully understand the given text. The reason for this is the abundance of scientific terms in the text, the essence of the topic is not fully disclosed. When we encounter similar problematic situations, we should try to explain to children in a simpler way. Only then will we be able to achieve the expected result.

Conclusion

The world is developing rapidly. In order to take our place on the world stage, we must constantly seek and learn. Realizing that our future is in the hands of young people, we cannot be indifferent to their education and upbringing. The role of teachers in this path is extremely important. In our article, we have given useful recommendations for teachers. In this article, we have given our opinions on the formation of the concept of “Text” among primary school teachers. Through research, we have analyzed which path is correct. We have studied in detail what the main goal of teaching text is.

List of used literature

1. D.SH.Yuldasheva “Ona tili” ( 1-sinf, 1-qism darslik -Toshkent: “Novda Edutainment” nashriyoti, 2023. – 96 b.)

2. K. Qosimov, S. Fuzailov, A. Ne’matova “Ona tili” ( 2-sinf darslik -Toshkent: “Cho’lpon nomidagi nashriyot-manbaa ijodiy uyi” , 2018.)

3. “ O’zbekiston Respublikasi Prezidenti Shavkat Mirziyoyevning Oliy Majlisga murojaatnomasi” ( Toshkent: “O’zbekiston nashriyoti” , 2021.- 72 b.”)

4. Muzaffarova Sitora Hamid qizi, “BOSHLANG’ICH SINF O’QISH DARSLARIDA O’QUVCHILARINI BADIIY MATN USTIDA ISHLASHGA O’RGATISHNING ASOSIY MASALALARI” maqola (https://econferencezone.org/index.php/ecz/article/download/1586/1461/1629).

5. Begimqulova Manzura Kadirovna, “BOSHLANG’ICH SINF O‘QUVCHILARIDA MUSTAQIL MATN YARATISH KO‘NIKMALARINI SHAKLLANTIRISH – TIL TA’LIMINING BOSH VAZIFASI”maqola https://zenodo.org/records/7954845/files/Begimqulova%20M%2025-28.pdf?download=1)

6. Nosirova Mashxura Husniddin qiz, “BOSHLANG’ICH SINF O’QUVCHILARIDA MATN BILAN ISHLASH KO’NIKMALARINI SHAKLLANTIRISH” maqola (https://econferences.ru/index.php/tafps/article/download/34932/18118/18456).

Synchronized Chaos’ Second February Issue: Sound and Fury, Signifying Everything

Old stylized drawing of a medieval man in a tunic with a sash and shield and a hat with feathers and striped shoes. Pastel yellow, blue, and white.
By M. and B. Skelt (publishers) – Folger Shakespeare Library Digital Image Collection http://luna.folger.edu/luna/servlet/s/r8t2ob, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=40908149
According to Shakespeare's Macbeth, 
Life "is a tale
Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury,
Signifying nothing."

First, some announcements: In February, on Saturday the 28th at 2pm, Synchronized Chaos Magazine partners with the Hayward Lit Hop to co-host the Hayward Coffee Hop.

Join with us to hear poems and sample the wares of four different local coffee shops in downtown Hayward, California (Zocalo’s, Snappy’s, Concha Dreams, and the Old City Roastery). Advance tickets required, reserve your spot here.

Green frog with black spots drinking from a steaming white mug of coffee.

In March we will have a presence at the Association of Writing Programs conference in Baltimore which will include a free public offsite reading at Urban Reads on Friday, March 6th at 6 pm. All are welcome to attend!

So far the lineup for our reading, the Audible Browsing Experience, includes Elwin Cotman, Katrina Byrd, Terry Tierney, Terena Bell, Shakespeare Okuni, and our editor, Cristina Deptula. If there’s time, an open mic will follow.

Front door of a bookstore with glass windows and bronze text and symbols painted on the window.
Urban Reads Bookstore

Poet Marin Angel, of Finland and Bulgaria, is forming a new, vast, international poetry society, the Poetic Political Party for Transparency, that will publish books and which seeks editors and writers.

Published poet and contributor Tao Yucheng is still hosting 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. Deadline for submissions will be in early March.

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

Brian Barbeito's poetry collection's cover. Heart carved from metal tied with a string onto what looks like a blue canvas tarp.
Screenshot

We’re also announcing the release of contributor Brian Barbeito’s new book The Book of Love and Mourning.


From Brian: These prose poems and photos are a journey that celebrate memory and colour and the near and far. Please travel along and explore both the written word and the visual narrative. The content will include but not be limited to, forest trails, meadows and skies, grasshoppers and wild clovers, electric light, and various seasons. And at times we will dream, reminisce, and wonder about the world, its form, content, and continual movement. 

The Book of Love and Mourning can be ordered here.

Now, for February’s second issue! This issue, Sound and Fury, Signifying Everything, as opposed to Macbeth’s feelings of meaninglessness, points to the importance of individual people and relationships, to ordinary settings and personal life stories.

Stylized painting of a ship with big white sails lurching in a storm. Clouds in the sky, big waves.
Image c/o Omar Sahel

Dmitriy Kogan asserts the value of ordinary words from understandable poets. Mykyta Ryzhykh’s micropoems hit on different nerves: money, guilt, tradition, speech, silence. Christopher Bernard’s first installment of Senor Despair explores the search for hope and meaning in a complex world.

Terry Trowbridge’s speakers inhabit and listen to time, rather than shouting their existences into the world. Mahbub Alam’s speaker slowly awakens from a deep sleep. On the other hand, Aurelia Preskill’s speaker desires to fully inhabit her universe and her own body. Michael Todd Steffen’s pieces concern observation: seeing our world, and the instability of what we see. Janaea Rose Lyn takes us on a poetic journey from grief to cognition to embodiment and, finally, to translucence. Taro Aizu finds gentle peace in everyday blessings and beauty. Jumanazarova Mohlaroyim Islombek qizi explicates the deep and stormy inner world behind Said Ahmad’s ironically titled novel Silence. Timothee Bordenave explores the emotional territory of pleasure, escape, rebirth, and devotion.

J.J. Campbell depicts the debris of soul damage from a long and weary life, but continues living, as he has little choice. Mahbub Alam evokes the solemn weariness of insomnia in an elegant poem. Taylor Dibbert reflects on turning points in a relationship that went south. John Edward Culp’s work quietly dares without becoming showy, as a person eases into the risk of loving and being loved. Kalipada Ghosh celebrates a gentle and inspiring love. Dr. Fernando Martinez Alderete presents the comfort and care of a steady, long-term love. Lan Xin’s love poetry carries a spiritual bent, drawing on metaphors of angels and ancient Chinese temples. Cai Zhenyuan ties love into universal compassion and making moral choices.

Alexa Grospe speaks to the visceral pain of someone struggling to be seen and loved in their ordinary humanness. Jacques Fleury advises readers to become comfortable and at home in their own identities and bodies. Eva Lianou Petropoulou reminds humans not to lose sight of our hearts and creativity in the age of artificial intelligence.

Bill Tope and Doug Hawley contribute a co-written bleak, funny, and tender short story that highlights the humanity not only of disabled people, but all those who age and change with time. Noah Berlatsky comments with humor on physical aging. Dilafro’z Sultanova aspires to health and wellness in her advertising jingle to the Central Asian health drink Beleever. Diyora Abduolimova and Jurayeva Aziza Rakhmatovna discusses the importance of and methods for inclusive education for children with disabilities.

Closeup of a tree's wooden rings.
Image c/o Petr Kratochvil

Shoshana Vegh speaks to a mythical love that endures through time. Mesfakus Salahin promises his commitment to his loved one throughout his life journey. Jamal Garougar affirms a quiet, humble love. Mandy Pistikou’s poetry outlines a romantic relationship that grows and deepens with time. Sabo Jurayeva urges people to marry for the right reasons, building strong families on love and commitment rather than infatuation.

Iroda Abdusamiyeva pays tribute to her kind, tenderhearted mother as Ibodimova Lobar Muzzafar qizi mourns the loss of her loving mother. Eshmatova Charos offers her love and respect to her mother through a prayer. Akramova Sarvinoz pays tribute to the love and strength of her parents. Dildorakhon Tursunboyeva tenderly expresses her love for her dear mother.

Jerrice J. Baptiste’s colorful artwork celebrates the joy of female friendship and sisterhood. Graciela Noemi Villaverde highlights the transformative power of both friendship and love. Sayani Mukherjee explores interpersonal love through the lenses of memory, religion, myth, and culture. Hanaan Abdelkader Ashour honors the love she shared with those who are departed and feels their continued presence.

Safarqulova Iroda and Maja Milojkovic celebrates the beauty of their heritages and mother tongues. Abdusaidova Jasmina expresses her pure joy and pride in her Uzbek homeland. Isaac Dominion Aju’s personal essay describes his journey towards accepting, creating, and claiming his identity as a Black African man. Normuminova Charos Shamshoshodovna looks deep in her heart and soul to find the meaning of “homeland.”

Halilova Rukshona Abdufattohovna honors the scientific and philosophical legacy of ancient scholar Abu Nasr al-Farabi. Sevara Jo’raqulova highlights the love for Uzbek heritage, nature, and culture in Alexander Faynberg’s poetry.

Orange Volkswagen bus with peace signs painted onto its side and lots of succulent plants in little pots next to it.
Image c/o Rheo Gauthier

Duane Vorhees also addresses nature as a theme, speaking to spring’s regrowth in a natural, unsentimental way. Aziza Xazamova shares fun and colorful winter memories. Christina Chin celebrates the clear, pure beauty of winter. Ananya S. Guha’s poetry speaks to natural cycles and resilience, places that keep a hold on people even after they leave. Yongbo Ma constructs an interior landscape built through a variety of objects, places and natural creatures: rocks, tadpoles, frogs, a person’s hometown.

Brian Michael Barbeito’s nature-based prose is quietly luminous, reflective, and tender, reminding us to see the grace in the everyday. Soumen Roy compares the ebbs and flows of relationships to waves at sea. Dr. Jernail S. Anand’s essay highlights the cosmic and natural power balances of the universe.

G’afforova Hadichaxon Abduhamid qizi also writes from a wide perspective, addressing the importance of addressing air pollution on systemic as well as individual levels. Jalolova Charos weighs various sustainable design models for our world’s growing cities. Mamatraimova Khadicha Eshali qizi discusses toponymy, the science of naming places and landforms, in a certain area of Uzbekistan. Dildora Xo’jyozova appreciates Uzbekistan’s rich and multilayered history and culture. Shahnoza Ochildiyeva celebrates the literary legacy of Uzbek writer and social theorist Chol’pon.

Egamberdiyeva Diloromxon highlights the importance of Uzbeks’ understanding their nation’s constitution. Jumayev Sanjar Ilyos ogli also explores the wisdom and importance of the Uzbek constitution in shaping the country. Bai Gengsheng’s poetry, translated by Lan Xin, highlights the enduring power of fortitude and wisdom in China’s cultural heritage. Zubayda Tursunboyeva illuminates themes in Uzbek poetess Zulfiya’s work: love, family, patriotism, and peace. Shermamatova Kamola Azizbek qizi discusses ways to incorporate epic world literature into the classroom.

Razzokova Feruza’s essay discusses how language and culture influence emotional expression. Mahmudjonova Rushonabonu outlines the global importance of the English language. Qobiljonova Hurixon compares advantages of blended and traditional education for those learning English as a second language. Sultonova Shahlo Baxtiyor qizi discusses ways to overcome cognitive and psychological barriers to language learning. Axramonova Laylo O’ktam qizi discusses the impact of bilingualism on personality.

Stylized image of pink, orange, yellow, and blue people facing each other with thought bubbles over their heads.
Image c/o Nicky Pe

Sultonmurodova Aqida identifies and offers solutions to problems students face with learning foreign languages. Shodiqulova Dilorom Niymatulla qizi highlights the value of teachers’ classroom preparation and evaluation tasks in helping students learn languages and other subjects. Mahamqulova Ruhshona Rustam qizi discusses the cultural and psychological benefits of joint educational programs, where a student may receive academic credit from institutions in different countries. Mominova Nozimakhon highlights the many ways education benefits society at large.

Xolmurotova Gulzoda outlines roles of digital platforms in language learning. Jumanazarova Nafisa discusses roles for artificial intelligence in learning English. Mamatova Mahbuba Abdulboqi qizi addresses the proper pedagogical conditions for using project-based technology in teaching literature. To’g’ilova Dinora shows how mobile apps can help students learn the Korean language. Abduhamidova Nihola shares methodological foundations for multimedia tools in language lessons. Madinaxon Tu’ychiyeva explores the efficacy of digitally based learning. Olimova Marjona Ubaydullayevna discusses how artificial intelligence can help with language learning.

To’laganova Muxlisa G’ulomovna discusses the role of artificial intelligence in teaching critical thinking skills. Ne’matullayeva Mukhlisa Sherali kizi outlines ways college professors can encourage students to develop their critical thinking skills. Zamira Moldiyeva Bahodirovna highlights the importance of teaching critical thinking skills in higher education.

Erkinov Dilmurod Adham o’g’li points out linguistic conventions in scientific writing. Azamova Kumushoy Akramjon qizi highlights the role of scientific research in modern society. Bafoyev Mirzabek Mirvohidovich reflects on how medical diagnostics has advanced and become more refined with time.

Saida Turdiboyeva reflects on how artificial intelligence is changing our lives. Azimov Mirsaid Salimovich highlights the growing importance of computer code in global infrastructure. Nematova Zarina Ochilboyevna points to the emerging trend of digitization in the labor market. Toshbekova Nozima offers suggestions to address youth unemployment. Abdiyeva Mahbuba Rahmiddinova advocates for increased attention to women’s entrepreneurship as a pathway to economic development and empowerment. Zarina Yorboboyeva discusses ways to improve strategic management in business enterprises in Central Asia. Shonazarov Shohjaxon outlines advantages and disadvantages of modern consumer credit.

Image of a white robot with yellow eyes holding a white card.
Image c/o Gerd Altmann

J.K. Durick’s pieces speak to automation and modern life, the slow erasure of the self. Bozorboyeva Nasiba Ergashboy qizi urges wisdom and foresight in the development and rollout of artificial intelligence technology. Mo’minova Rukhshona highlights how science should not be separated from ethics.

Gaurav Ojha encourages revolutionaries and activists to keep up their spirit and idealism. Norman J. Olson’s drawing conveys the current atmosphere of Minneapolis. Patricia Doyne highlights inconsistencies in American public policy regarding firearms and cultural violence. Kujtim Hajdari laments the destruction and sorrow war causes.

Mauro Montacchiesi highlights themes of moral and psychological choices in the here and now in Dr. Jernail Singh’s book Beyond Heaven, Beyond Hell. James Tian excoriates religion enforced through fear and moral blackmail. Mohammad Sedigh Haghighi reminds us that meaning cannot be outsourced, we are all tasked with a long and personal quest to find what matters.

Angelina Muniz Huberman reviews Beatriz Saavedra Gastelum’s new book Alfonso Reyes: Cartography of the Spirit and the Word, which dramatizes estrangement and exile. Shammah Jeddypaul’s piece evokes the dislocation of trauma through a narrator whose situation we gradually begin to grasp. David Kokoette’s raw, furious, and wounded poetry looks at systemic and personal violation and invasion.

Luis Cuauhtemoc Berriozabal’s work probes spaces where meaning becomes unreliable and sensory overload collapses into numbness. Grzegorz Wroblewski’s asemic scrawls reflect intuitive thought maps or emotional streams of consciousness. Mark Young’s pieces feel geometric, like a meditation on latency. Rus Khomutoff contributes a chant, a waking dream, a data-streamed prayer. Poet Yongbo Ma interviews writer Jeffrey Cyphers Wright about his fun, freeflowing, and experimental poetry craft.

Image of purple light and paint patterns on a black background.
Image c/o Piotr Siedlecki

Ruziyeva Nigina Sanat kizi delves into the moral and spiritual aspects of O’tkir Hoshimov’s work. Jakhongir Nomozov interviews Azerbaijani poet, translator, and journalist Aysel Khanlargizi Safarli on beauty, meaning, and spiritual understanding in her work.

Sevinch Botirjonova explicates the power of words in an increasingly connected world. Stephen Jarrell Williams speaks to memory, faith, and history. Nozima Gofurova highlights the thoughtful literary criticism of Ozod Sharafiddinov and how he examined literature as a force to mold and inspire society as well as elegant entertainment. Jumayev Sanjar Ilyos ogli celebrates the many roles of Uzbekistan’s young people in shaping the country’s future.

Dustmurodova Marjona Doniyorovna illuminates the value of lifelong learning as Türkan Ergör urges us to forget past sorrows and grudges and Opeyemi Oluwayomi asserts his steady belief in the value and beauty of tomorrow.

We hope that this issue helps you keep growing, thinking, and believing in our shared future.

Poetry from Ananya S. Guha

There is a return

Almost nowhere trapped

in these hills I am caught

among voices and a lone dream

that these terrains weave among 

clouds and gurgling streams 

I am ensnared by some form

beauty or demonic beast 

but I lift my hands, a prayer 

to these tempestuous hills 

even as the stalactites and the stalagmites

in cavernous rocks of Cherra wither 

Into fantasy. There is a return.

You know 

Everyday the sun triumphs 

in these hills, even when 

it rains vigorously lashing window panes

but the sun less fortuitous triumphs 

sans glory

as it nestles by the hill side storm

and is, bystander to the history of these 

hills. I summon courage to withstand 

the rain or an earthquake 

knowing that the sun with bravado

gets a glimpse of my fortitude.

Resilience

In these rivers there is dirt

but the muddied images of 

the goddess float after the immersion

for another Durga Puja to emerge

these October rains flood the Umiam lake 

and mirages feint on hill tops

blue skies mirror images of a hill town 

caught in time warp of city and town.

The school 

Still stands though buildings 

have changed 

but the relentless corridor and teachers

In cassocks haunt dreams

even as the Alsatian dog barks 

in mnemonic hiatuses.

I get up prepared to go to school 

for another day, as years lapse

into history.

The crows

Every night they rattled roof tops

and in Gauhati their mournful cawing

nibbled at my dreams

Earthly wonder, theirs was a raiment

of dark dark even as the moon winced 

to lessen a bit of the black 

and merge them with dark nights.

Their sullen mourning sent a shriek 

in the air and in Shillong’s rains 

they pranced madly in their wetness.

Essay from Mohammad Sedigh Haghighi

​The Architecture of the Gray Soul

​Introduction

​Countless humans have lived on Earth—those who formed the past, those in the present, and those who will shape the future. Every person thinks, learns, and acts differently from one another. The settings of the human mind are all personalized by the environment in which one grows up, the micro-details of their life, and so on. Man Is the source of all thoughts, religions, and political systems (Democracy, Authoritarianism, and Totalitarianism).

​All the destruction that has happened in the world, the progress and the good that have occurred, the industrial revolutions, the inventions, and the books that have been written are the work of humans. All good and evil have been created by us, humans; the first spark of thought was ignited by our minds, and we put it into action. May we, as humans, be the cause of goodness in this black-and-white world, and may we allow the white to prevail over the darkness. But let us remember: to change the world, we must first turn the darkness that has engulfed our own being into light.

​The Body

​How can everything be so cold and soulless? Lack of purpose creates a lack of motivation, and a lack of motivation makes the mind ill and depressed. What in this world can make us happy and purposeful? Money, wealth, fame, or a cup of coffee, a little water, and a book or a film to watch? I do not know If these are related or not, but when you do not feel yourself, it is as if you have no existence. Truly, what are we doing here? Do we have any impact on this gray and black world?

​Humans are slaves to other humans; great pyramids of people who are slaves to others. This is the system of today’s societies. With every step we take, we touch the darkness and the dust that has surrounded us all with our entire being. Routine and a lack of creativity have become natural for people. If someone wants to be different, people cannot tolerate them. Who implemented this system in the world? Have the great capitalists forced people to be like robots? Have they promoted those without talent—who reach positions through buffoonery and mockery—to create entertainments so that people see no need for any change In themselves?

​I fear the day I want to do something, but the result fails for completely absurd reasons. Fear sometimes makes us feel terrible for any reason. Fear is like a monster that we always want to avoid facing, lest that monster destroys us. Most people consider themselves free of fear, but no one is honest about this. Even the bravest people have a very deep fear hidden in a corner of their heart. Those who run away from their fear instead of accepting and living with It will eventually, as I said, be swallowed by fear like a monster.

​How is happiness created within us? By gaining money, wealth, status, or eating our favorite food? Note that if a person has all of these but feels empty, how can the issue of happiness and being glad return to their mental and intellectual state? The more humble and educated a person is, the more their sense of happiness can differ from someone who gambles and spends their day drinking alcohol.

​I do not know what is right or wrong. What is life? Where is our goal? What does our nationality define within us? What identity do races and ethnicities give us? These only form part of the confusion of our minds. Why should someone be in the best place on this planet while another is in the worst? How and in what way was this boundary between individuals created? Where did grudge, envy, hypocrisy, and narcissism come from? Certainly, even the greatest scientists do not have correct answers to these questions and give cliché answers like: “These were all created by God…”

​Very well, most of us believe in a higher power, but who Is there to answer us directly? True, if we think correctly, we ourselves are responsible for finding an answer for ourselves. Now, this answer will be determined according to our way of thinking and the goal we believe in. That is, all answers can be correct, but truly, which one Is “more” correct?