Ozod Sharafiddinov – The Star of Uzbek Literature After Navoi

Ozod Sharafiddinov, a distinguished figure in Uzbek literary criticism and philology, has left an indelible mark on the field. His creative and scholarly legacy remains highly relevant today. He was not only a literary critic but also a translator, publicist, and an enlightened intellectual.

Looking at his life path, he was born on March 1, 1929, in the village of Okhunqaynar, near Kokand. He graduated from the Faculty of Philology at the Central Asian State University. His thirst for knowledge led him to complete postgraduate studies in Moscow, where he earned a PhD in 1955. Later, he continued his work at the Academy of Sciences of Uzbekistan, conducting in-depth research in literary studies.

Ozod Sharafiddinov’s works focus on the development of Uzbek literature, creative freedom, and the study of talented writers. He authored numerous literary-critical articles and monographs. One notable example is the book “Zamon. Qalb. Poeziya” (“Time. Soul. Poetry”), which analyzes the essence of Uzbek poetry and the emotional depth of poets.

Another book that deeply impressed me is “Iste’dod jilolari” (“The Sparkles of Talent”, 1976). This work explores the creativity of gifted Uzbek poets and writers. Sharafiddinov examines their writing style, mastery, and role in the literary process. The book provides an in-depth study of writers such as Oybek, G‘afur G‘ulom, and Abdulla Qahhor.

His work “Adabiy etyudlar” (“Literary Etudes”, 1968) discusses the relationship between literature and society, creative freedom, and the role of literary criticism. Sharafiddinov emphasizes that literary criticism should not only highlight shortcomings but also serve as a tool for the development of writers.

Another remarkable book, “So‘nggi satr Vatan shoniga aylandi” (“The Last Line Became the Glory of the Homeland”) delves into the theme of patriotism, explaining its artistic and spiritual significance.

Sharafiddinov also made significant contributions as a translator. He translated many masterpieces of world literature into Uzbek. Among his notable translations are Leo Tolstoy’s “Confession”, Paulo Coelho’s famous novel “The Alchemist”, and Anton Chekhov’s psychological short stories. His translations preserve the artistic and spiritual essence of the original works, making them accessible to Uzbek readers.

His contributions to Uzbek literature were highly esteemed. On August 23, 2002, he was awarded the title of “Hero of Uzbekistan.”

In his works, Ozod Sharafiddinov not only analyzed the artistic aspects of literature but also examined its social significance. He established himself as a leading literary scholar and a master of criticism. His scientific and artistic legacy solidified his position as one of the greatest figures in Uzbek literature after Navoi. His contributions played a key role in shaping new directions in literature beyond Navoi’s era. Today, Sharafiddinov remains one of the brightest representatives of Uzbek literature, and his academic and creative legacy continues to be relevant. His works are not only valuable for literary scholars but also for writers and readers.

In conclusion, I must say that reading Ozod Sharafiddinov’s works has been a true intellectual and spiritual nourishment for me. Each book deepened my perspective on literature and enriched my thoughts. I highly recommend exploring his works, as they offer not only knowledge but also profound enrichment for the soul.

Odina A’zamqulova

1st-year student at the University of Journalism and Mass Communications of Uzbekistan

DISTINCTIVE ARTISTIC ELEMENTS OF A.A. FEINBERG’S POETRY

Shukurova Sevinch Bahodir qizi

Student, Uzbekistan World Language University

English Philology and language teaching

Scientific adviser: Saydamatov Ikromjon Nazirovich

Abstract: The article explores the works of Alexander Arkadyevich Feinberg, a renowned People’s Poet of Uzbekistan. Poetry, by its very nature, is concise and often carries a significant degree of social critique. In contrast, prose, being a more expansive and explicit genre, struggles to endure the scrutiny of those who seek moral purity, even when addressing similar critiques.

Keywords: Alexander Feinberg, uzbek literature, topographical expeditions, internationalism, spiritual boundaries, life portrait.

Introduction

 The charm of Alexander Feinberg’s poetry, which shines in the sky of Uzbek and Russian poets, has won the hearts of people of different ages, views, and feats. Alexander Arkadyevich Feinberg is the author of 15 collections of poetry, including a posthumous two-volume edition, published in Tashkent, Moscow, and St. Petersburg, magazines called “New World”, “Youth”, “Mega Polis”, “Star of the East”, “New Volga”, “Arion”, as well as in periodicals on both sides of the Atlantic.

Research materials and Methodology

The memoir book about poet Alexander Feinberg, featuring contributions from 48 authors, presents a collective life portrait that goes beyond his identity as a poet, gifted essayist, and screenwriter. More than anything, it vividly portrays him as a contemporary and fellow Tashkent native, showcasing his diverse personality and creative versatility. Through the pages of this book, friends of the poet share insights into his strengths and weaknesses, his bold determination to overcome life’s challenges, his humble remorse for both intentional and unintentional mistakes, his deep devotion to his homeland, his affection for animals, and his unwavering commitment to his true calling-Poetry.

This deeply personal memoir swiftly secured its place in the history of Russian and Uzbek literature, offering a multifaceted portrayal of A. Feinberg’s era at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries. Zoya Tumanova poignantly asks:

What signs of the times shine through the poet’s realities?

The book holds significance not only for contemporary readers but also for future generations. For any reader, it is crucial to accurately and thoroughly capture the essence of a writer’s time. This memoir vividly depicts everyday life—how people lived, their earnings, attire, and the traditions of hospitality in the East, where both expected and unexpected guests were received with warmth. It details what people ate and drank, painting a sensory-rich picture reminiscent of Flemish painters who celebrated the joys of abundance and simple pleasures. As A. Feinberg himself wrote:

“The mighty chill of aspic quivers,

Cucumber rings shimmer bright,

Salt flakes descend like tiny snowflakes,

And pepper’s black dust takes flight.”

This memoir serves as a concise encyclopedia of the poet’s life, offering insight into how Alexander Feinberg and those around him lived, loved, created, and faced the highs and lows of existence—discoveries, hardships, and creative inspiration. It introduces his close and distant friends, literary and cinematic colleagues, and even chance acquaintances from his numerous topographical expeditions, which he described in verse:

“The roads, the roads we choose to take,

They promise troubles, they threaten fate,

Both hell and paradise await.”

As Alexander Kolmogorov observed, all these individuals, bound by fate, experienced the mesmerizing artistry that seemed to run through Feinberg’s very blood. Regardless of their age, literary standing, or social position, the poet and his fellow authors shared a common and fervent passion for the written word. As Feinberg declared: “Where the word is not given, there are no rights.”

Ultimately, the memoir seeks to answer one of humanity’s most               profound questions: “Why are you here on this earth?”

“Tell me, what will be your answer

When the light flickers in the night,

And with a quiet step, the eternal one

Approaches the flame of your candle?”

His close friend and colleague, the People’s Poet of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov, whom Feinberg described as “a true friend of the Uzbek people and a truly national poet, who paved his way to Paradise through his life and work,” echoed these reflections.

Journalist Rustam Shagaev recounted a fascinating moment from his 50th-anniversary photo exhibition, where Feinberg was present, highlighting the poet’s ability to transform even an ordinary gathering into something memorable.

Poetry, as reflected in this memoir, encapsulates everything—meaning and conscience, hope and astonishment, fear and cunning, the skill of navigating life’s challenges, and the courage to confront them directly. It embodies both the well-established principles of modern artistic thought—humanism, internationalism, and the pursuit of social justice—and the drive to transcend conventional aesthetic and spiritual boundaries, embracing the distinct nuances of national and social identity.

Conclusion

Through his words, Feinberg reminds us of the power of poetry to capture life in all its complexity, to challenge conventions, and to preserve the essence of a generation. His legacy, intertwined with the literary and cultural history of Uzbekistan and beyond, remains a guiding light for those who seek truth and beauty in the written word.

REFERENCES:

1. https://uz.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aleksandr_Faynberg

• Valiyeva N. & Abdusamadov Z. N. (2022). Artistic Peculiarities of the Poetry of A. A. Fainberg. Kresna Social Science and Humanities Research, 148-149.
• Sobirova A.A. Analysis of stylistic means in the translation of Alexander Feinberg’s poem “The painter” from Russian into English. Oriental Renaissance: Innovative, educational, natural and social sciences (E)ISSN: 2181-1784 4(01), Jan., 2024.
•  Malykhina G. “Fainberg’s poetic mine”, Tashkent, 2014
• Tartakovsky P.I., Kaganovich S.F. “Russian-language poetry at the present stage”, Tashkent, 1991.

Artist of Shadows, Or Sleep Apnea

Chuck Taylor

Artist in his room, the bed lamp lit, the fan running — white noise to block exterior sounds — the blinds tight shut; artist of the shadows of heart, the beating inside, the mind waking with thoughts, worries kept to oneself, the others in the house sleeping, they’ve heard it before, over and over, so let the artist suffer his insomnia rage alone; artist of the shadows, his books on the walls, his touchstones easily pulled from the shelf, a passage read, his laptop’s blue glow, tap, tap, words on the screen out into the night on the web for other artists of shadows who seek what they do not know, who dream a good night’s sleep, bright energy for a bright next day but have forgot that way of being, must love and move through the day in a molasses way, lost and not remembering, hoping clarity will come again while he wakes and sleeps, wakes and sleeps, for an hour or two receives buoyant energy, and then the mind turns to fog and anger and he will try to sleep. Strange life. Alone life. The artist whispers phrases, “I’m through with this,” “I can’t go on.” He takes the dog for a walk down the night-empty streets. The artist of the shadows returns and climbs in bed. It’s four a.m. He strokes his aching legs and swallows a pill to ease the pain…

Peace

I knew a child 

When the bombs destroy her school

She cried for her books

I knew a child

When he died

He said before

I will tell all to GOd

I knew a child

That he was in the boat

With his books

When the boat sink

We found out that he was the best student

All his grades on the bottom of the sea

Was all “A+”

I knew a child

Who walked from Syria

To Turkey

With no father

No mother

No brother

No shoes

Never forget….

Better peace than war

For all daddies in heaven 

Rest in peace father

My father 

I will miss the kind face

The conversations about life and future

I will miss the time we spend in our garden

Your generosity will remain in my heart, 

As a tree blossoms

And give his shadow

You gave me so much to remember…

As a boat make a journey

U were my captain in this world..

For years and years

Silent

But strong

Farewell my father

Angels are your family now…

Your smile will be in our hearts….

Farewell my father 

Was happy to have you in my path

Farewell my father

The beauty of your soul

Will be my guide…

Forever

…..

Synchronized Chaos Magazine expresses our sorrow for the lives and property lost in the Los Angeles wildfires. We invite people to visit here to learn about how to send cards of encouragement to fire crews and to donate books to replace school library collections that have burned.

Contributor Patricia Doyne shares news that the Ina Coolbrith Society welcomes entries for its annual spring poetry contest.

Finally, contributor Chimezie Ihekuna seeks a publisher for his children’s story collection Family Time. Family Time! Is a series that is aimed at educating, entertaining and inspiring children between the ages of two and seven years of age. It is intended to engage parents, teachers and children with stories that bring a healthy learning relationship among them.

In March we will have a presence at the Association of Writing Programs conference in L.A. which will include an offsite reading at Chevalier’s Books on Friday, March 28th at 6 pm. All are welcome to attend!

So far the lineup for our reading includes Asha Dore, Douglas Cole, Linda Michel-Cassidy, Aimee Suzara, Reverie Fey, Sumiko Saulson, Ava Homa, Michelle Gonzalez, Terry Tierney, Anisa Rahim, Katrina Byrd, Cindy Rinne, Norma Smith, and Kellianne Parker.

Author Justin Hamm is hosting a FREE online literary event the weekend of AWP, known as StayWP. This will include author talks, informative panels, book launches and networking!

To register, please click here: https://docs.google.com/…/1FAIpQLSe0jqgxfQn…/viewform…

Now, for the second February issue, Character Arcs.

This issue focuses on the journeys each of us, as individuals and cultural groups, take throughout life. We follow characters as seasons change and time passes, through different aspects of our shared humanity.

Sayani Mukherjee conveys the feel of the shifting landscape as night gives way to daytime.

Shukurillayeva Lazzatoy Shamsodovna translates a poem by Alexander Feinberg, which offers advice for new beginnings: start in silence and quietly observe the world before speaking. Sometimes we need to consider and learn before we can act.

As in life, we begin with childhood. Daniel De Culla writes of a kind and gracious angelic intervention on a pair of children’s first communion day. Isabel Gomez de Diego’s photos celebrate the whimsy and raw joy of a child’s dinosaur themed birthday party.

Muxarram Murrodulayeva urges readers to become worthy of their parents’ trust. Maftuna Rustamova reminds us to live out the best of our parents’ teachings.

Mahmudova Sohibakhon presents methods of teaching and learning spoken and written English. Abigail George speaks to her friendship and mentoring relationship with aspiring South African playwright Dillon Israel. Sharipova Gulhayo Nasimovna outlines and details her educational dreams.

Lazizbek Raximov’s essay highlights the purposes and power of literature. Mehran Hashemi shares some of his poetry and outlines how his writing journey has changed his life. Federico Wardal interviews filmmaker Michael Poryes in a wide-ranging conversation about both of their artistic visions and goals and about the perils of fame and the necessity of real friendship for artists.

Anna Keiko expresses how small beginnings can grow into larger scenes of beauty. Safarova Charos’ watercolors capture and highlight simple domestic comforts: tea, flowers, bluebirds.

Mickey Corrigan shares the stories of authors’ and creatives’ homes, which took on a historical cachet after the creatives left their legacies. Nozima Raximova discusses the Jadidist national cultural revival movement in 19th century Crimea, highlighting its importance in modernizing the area.

Sean Meggeson experiments with words, sounds, and arrangements of text on the screen. Mark Young splashes swathes of color and delicate text and lines across the page.

Eva Petropoulou Lianou reflects on the beauty of our diverse world full of many people with different creative gifts. For something different, Duane Vorhees contributes Mother Goose-esque pieces that address grace, mortality and human equality and diversity with gentle humor.

Nate Mancuso’s short story presents a couple who meet for a date and finally find themselves able to connect when they let go of their expectations and categories.

Grace Olatinwo recollects her mother’s steady love and draws strength from it as she navigates adult relationships. A rich poem by Kareem Abdullah, translated by John Henry Smith, celebrates sensuality and surrendering to love. Tajalla Qureshi speaks to the fragrant and silken ecstasy of sensual and spiritual love.

Mesfakus Salahin encourages readers to understand and wait for true and non-materialistic love as Maftuna Rustamova reminds us of the importance of money to have a stable life.

Sobirjonova Rayhona takes joy in her sister’s beautiful wedding. Dilbar Koldoshova Nuraliyevna reflects on the wonder and responsibility of motherhood. Lilian Dipasupil Kunimasa shares how she’s doing what she can to show compassion to the world, even as a person of limited means. Michael Robinson speaks to the spiritual love and sense of belonging he has found in his later years through knowing Jesus Christ.

Kelly Sauvage Moyer and Heidi McIver’s collaborative haiku speaks to the intensity of the human heart and its hidden passions.

John Grey’s work explores agency: moments when we feel like active protagonists and when we get subsumed by life. Pamela Zero offers her admiration for bold women with confidence who walk by as she quietly weeds her garden. Jumanazarov Zohidjon reflects on the winding road of life and its ups and downs.

Kylian Cubilla Gomez’ photography explores the dislocation of travel: window views, sculpted renditions of international flights, objects balanced at strange angles.

Eleanor Vincent’s memoir Disconnected, reviewed by Cristina Deptula, charts the journey of a romance between two people with different neurotypes, ending in a different kind of dislocation.

Jacques Fleury’s story relates the tale of a man finding a glimmer of love again after the death of a spouse. Graciela Noemi Villaverde memorializes her deceased husband and the many ways he complemented her and illuminated her life. Taylor Dibbert reflects on how one takes one’s departed loved ones with us in our minds long after their passing. Tursunov Abdulla Bakhrom O’g’li poetically mourns a lost love. Kristy Raines’ evocative poetry illustrates how people can communicate the depth of love and grief with or without words.

J.J. Campbell’s poetry evokes longing, loss, and ennui. Kassandra Aguilera conveys the anguish of unrequited love. John Dorsey’s poetry captures moments of isolation and waiting, characters who feel out of place.

Khomidjonova Odina shares a scary story of a boy and his pet deer being threatened by robbers. Mahbub Alam evokes the vast power of the Los Angeles wildfires as Don Bormon speaks to both the destruction and the city’s power to rebuild. Naila Abdunosirova’s poignant piece describes a homeless, landless rabbit devoured by a fox. Ahmed Miqdad grasps the enormity of all he and many other civilians have lost due to the war in Gaza.

Pesach Rotem draws on Dr. Strangelove to try to make sense of the current bewildering state of the U.S. federal government. Pat Doyne laments the national American chaos caused in part by people who believed they were voting for lower consumer prices.

Z.I. Mahmud discusses the mixture of pathos and moral critique of war profiteering and opportunism in Bertolt Brecht’s play Mother Courage, ultimately concluding that Brecht “hated the sin while loving the sinner” and approached all his characters with empathy.

Each poignant in its own way, Bill Tope’s poems cover anti-LGBT violence, a tender moment between mother and son, and a reflection on what matters at different points in life.

Joseph Ogbonna revels in Texas’ adventurous and wild countryside and culture. Brian Barbeito reflects on the various ways different people cope with the harsh, primal energies of winter. Harry Lowery’s poetry explores love and loss through metaphors of travel and the nature of light.

David Sapp addresses the human spiritual quest, how searching for transcendence and meaning is natural for us, sometimes to the point where we fight each other over faith. Mykyta Ryzhykh’s poetry conveys longing and acceptance in the face of life’s challenges.

Yucheng Tao’s poetry explores freedom, rebellion and individuality, death, wildness, and loss. Su Yun writes of the interplay of light and shadow, beauty and decay, and humans’ relationship to the vibrant and resilient natural world.

Finally, Stephen Jarrell Williams waxes poetic in his truck at night, overcome with joy and nostalgia.

                             Central Asian teen girl with long straight dark hair, brown eyes, and a black jacket with a zipper.

The family is our small homeland. The family various, large or small. The environment in the family is all it is considered important for dialogues. There is also such a proverb in our people.

“The bird does what it sees in the nest.” This proverb is not said for nothing. Because the little boy has a kind of eloquence, the order and decency he sees in his house and on the street, in various crowded places he will also speak in the same way. Don’t forget, whatever order and communication you see in your home, even in public places you don’t always have to adjust this. If you’ve learned beautiful and human manners and your family’s order is exemplary you leave yourself a lot with your upbringing first and set an example for your peers. This is your main achievement and will bring thanks to your family environment and help you show yourself and rise.

Bukhara region 

Jondor District

30-school 

8-“a” class student .