“ARTISTIC INTERPRETATION OF UZBEKISTAN NATIONAL VALUES AND CHARACTER” IN THE MOVIE “SUV YOQALAB”, “IMAGE CREATION SKILL”

Kokand State University

Faculty of Uzbek and Russian Philology

Scientific supervisor: Ergasheva Sugdiyona

sugdiyona619@gmail.com

Student: Nomozaliyeva Hilolaxon

nomozaliyevahilola@gmail.com

Abstract. This article examines the artistic interpretation of the Uzbek national character in the short story “Suv yoqalab” by the people’s writer of Uzbekistan, Erkin A’zam. The work analyzes how the national character is manifested psychologically, socially, and culturally, and how the characteristics of the national mentality are reflected through the main characters. Text analysis, comparison, and synthetic approaches are used in the research process. Also, as a result of the research, the writer effectively highlights the main features of the Uzbek national character: hard work, valuing family and generation, harmony with nature, and spiritual wealth, using the possibilities of the short story genre.

Keywords: artistic analysis of the short story “Suv yoqalab,” national values and mentality, national character, characteristics of characters, short story genre, psychological method.

Introduction

         There are many unique works in world literature, but each work is distinguished from the other by its ideas, characters, author’s position, and style. Of course, the era in which the author lived, the place where he grew up, and the social environment have a great influence on this. Undoubtedly, the work clearly shows which nationality the author represents. Representatives of any nationality in the world differ sharply from each other in that they have their own national and universal values. The film “Suv yoqalab” by Erkin A’zam vividly depicts the traditional values and national character of the Uzbek nation, and we will try to shed light on them through this article.

National values are a concept that reflects the unique qualities of each nation, and they represent the contribution and place of that nation in its cultural heritage, which has been formed in the process of its development. As long as a nation exists, its national values ​​also apply. National values ​​are formed and improved together with the nation. National values ​​are based on the national idea. Therefore, if a state wants to subjugate other nations, it foremost tries to deprive them of their national values. This includes the historical, cultural, religious, and spiritual heritage of the people.

         In today’s era of globalization, preserving the national idea, the ideology of independence and our spiritual values, instilling them in the minds of the younger generation are becoming one of the urgent tasks. The principles put forward by our President are also starting a new stage in this direction. “If the body of society is the economy, then its soul and spirit are spirituality. Since we have decided to build a new Uzbekistan, we will rely on two strong pillars. The first is a strong economy based on market principles. The second is a strong spirituality based on the rich heritage of our ancestors and national values,” says the head of our state. Although I. Ergashev, B. Abdullayev, M. Kakharov, D. Rakhimova, Kh. Khidirov have conducted their research in this regard, the existing studies have not sufficiently analyzed the reflection of national values in our works and the main features of the Uzbek national character. Therefore, this article is aimed at highlighting these aspects, at the manifestation of national values in the work of our writers. This analysis is based on Erkin A’zam’s short story “Suv yokalab”, which won the “Serebryanniy Vityaz” award at the “Zolotoy Vityaz” international film forum (Moscow).

Literature analysis and methodology: 

         We used the Izoh.uz website in the article. Because this dictionary served as the main theoretical source in defining the conceptual foundations of terms such as national values, spirituality, moral principles, and national character in the article. In particular, this source was the basis for providing an understanding of the spiritual roots of the concept of “national value” and how they are formed in the public consciousness. In addition, while writing our article, we also reviewed the collection of articles “The Importance of National Values and Spiritual Heritage in the Development of Society”. This collection discusses the importance of national values and spiritual heritage in the development of society, the history of national values, the socio-political views of our thinkers, modern propaganda technologies in promoting national values and spiritual heritage, issues of covering national values in the media, and the problems of propaganda methodology. Erkin A’zam’s story “Suv Yoqalab” is the main object of artistic analysis of our article. Plot analysis, image system, character coverage, symbols, and expression of national values are written directly based on this film story.

         The work was carried out using the method of text analysis, the components of the work: plot, image system were deeply analyzed. Each element of the text was considered from the point of view of the aspects in which the national character is manifested. The historical literary method was used, that is, the work was analyzed in the context of the period in which it was created, taking into account the stages of development of Uzbek literature, and, most importantly, the method of psychological analysis was used to illuminate the spiritual world of the heroes, their character traits, and their connection with the national mentality. Also, the intercultural method was used to show the national customs and traditions reflected in the work.

Analysis and result

          The term “film story” began to appear in our literature from the second half of the 20th century. Writers such as Sharof Rashidov, Jamol Kamol and Usmon Azim published some of their works under this name. In particular, as a result of the creative efforts of Erkin A’zam, works of this type began to form as a separate genre and showed their own unique characteristics.

         It is natural that in the literary process, signs characteristic of a certain type or genre are also found in other genres. However, when the theoretical foundations of a particular genre take precedence, these criteria determine its poetic essence. This situation is also clearly visible in the example of film stories in Erkin A’zam’s work. Although film stories meet the requirements of the prose genre in terms of their external structure, their internal pathos and artistic direction are combined with the characteristics characteristic of the dramatic genre.

         In particular, in the film story “Suv yoqalab”, dramatism is manifested as the main aesthetic principle. In this work, the development of the plot, the character of the characters, and the dynamics of events are built in accordance with the criteria of spectacle. This aspect, in turn, ensures the proximity of the film story to the dramatic genre. As is known, spectacle is considered the main aesthetic requirement of the dramatic genre. Therefore, this feature is increasingly becoming legitimate in the poetic structure of the film story.

          In addition, the fact that Erkin A’zam’s short stories pay special attention to the most important dramatic climaxes of events, and the concise presentation of irony and psychological analysis shows the uniqueness of his literary style. Moreover, by reflecting them in the midst of life’s trials, the writer’s artistic concept is further deepened. Thus, it shows that Erkin A’zam’s short stories are not only forming as an independent genre, but also that they are an effective example of inter-genre synthesis.

          The analyzed short story “Suv yoqalab” is a work skillfully created by the author in revealing the artistic expression of national values. The short story compositionally corresponds to the Uzbek national storytelling style. The plot of the work is formed on the basis of events occurring around the main character. This developing plot reveals various aspects of the national way of life. For example, the nature of the main character reflects the traditional approach of the Uzbek people to the natural environment. Through the images in the work, national values such as family, the institution of the family and its role in society, respect for elders, support for youth, love for the Motherland, teamwork, loyalty, honor, honesty, and justice are shown. That is, we can see that the main character of the work, Bolta Mardon, intervenes when the wives of Hasan-Husan are fighting for water, stops the fighting, and makes a fair judgment, that he does not give water to a fellow villager who once robbed the state warehouse, that he is generous to his fellow villagers, that he whips his son who has chosen a dirty path to correct him, and that he lies for the peace of a family. While describing the events of the work, we can say that Erkin A’zam used new artistic conventions with great skill through Bolta Mardon’s stubborn, stubborn, intolerant, and just character. Another skill of our creator is in choosing suitable names for each of the heroes of the work. For example, if we pay attention to the name of the main character – Bolta Mardon, we see that this name was not chosen by chance. “Axe” is a sharp, cutting, powerful weapon, and the character of the character is also in harmony with this tool. Giving him the name “Axe” refers to his character, behavior, firmness in speech, and his place in society. Every word that comes out of Bolta Mardon’s mouth is like an ax – clear, sharp, and impressive. What he says “reaches the target without fail,” that is, he boldly and fearlessly expresses his opinion and is able to subordinate those around him to it. So, through the name “Axe Mardon,” the author reveals the spiritual world and social position of the hero using artistic means. In Erkin A’zam’s short stories, the plot is usually built in chronological or concentric forms. In a chronological plot, events develop in chronological order, while in a concentric plot, events develop around a center. Exposition plays an important role in the author’s works.

         Through it, the characters, their environment, character and time are introduced, and the viewer or reader is immersed in the events of the work. Exposition can be in various forms – direct, reverse, mixed or delayed. This provides different ways of entering the plot. Erkin A’zam mainly uses direct and mixed expositions in his works. Through these methods, he gradually introduces the reader to the development and atmosphere of events.

         The work in our analysis begins with the words “A spacious courtyard. A tall igloo in the middle of the three-sided building. Beyond the igloo is a dense, wooded garden.” At first glance, it is an exposition that begins like a typical work, but we can see symbolic meanings in it. For example, in the sentence “A three-sided building,” our writer describes a large family consisting of three small households and united by a “tall igloo.” The head of that family is Bolta Mardon. When we imagine the image of Bolta Mardon, our solid, heavy, and respected fathers or grandfathers come to mind. His stature, the way he wears a skullcap, and the way he walks with his belt tightly tied — all of these are vivid expressions of our national traditions and values. Although Bolta Mardon has left his post as chairman, his concern for the people’s suffering and his willingness to put the interests of the people above his own interests still make him a respected person among the people. These qualities, in turn, directly stem from our national upbringing, ancient traditions, and values such as humanity, solidarity, and kindness inherited from our ancestors. In the work, Bolta Mardon is depicted not only as a just leader, but also as a loving father, a patriot, and an honorable person. In his image, we see true examples of national character – patience, patriotism, honesty, and loyalty to the people. His daughter, Zulfiya, who was raised by him, also grew up with national values ​​such as thoughtfulness, modesty, patience, and loyalty to her parents, characteristic of an Uzbek woman. She puts respect for her parents and loyalty to her family in the first place. Writing about her, the author expresses the purity and innocence inherent in the nature of an Uzbek woman in one sentence: “Zulfiya’s house. A small courtyard. A lot of greenery, a lot of greenery.”

         Indeed, the writer’s works mainly illuminate the lives of ordinary people in a rural environment. They have a unique image and skillfully reveal complex but sincere feelings. The writer places special emphasis on highlighting not only everyday events, but also the inner experiences, hopes, and spiritual conflicts of the characters. For example, Bolta Mardon’s three sons seem to depict his youth. The eldest son represents his youthful energy, pride, and arrogance, the middle son represents his unfulfilled dreams and unachieved goals, and the youngest son represents his unrealized dreams and aspirations in life. “Does a father mean a prophet? I tell you not to be as vain as I am… If you marry, find a woman who will never disappoint you. Your mother is a very good woman, she has never done anything wrong to me. Moreover, she gave birth to brave sons like you. But it’s hard when your heart is not full…”, he says, advising his youngest son.

         In Erkin A’zam’s work, the ideas expressed in the vernacular, the brilliance of artistic observation and means of depiction distinguish him from others.

         In this work, one of the qualities inherent in humanity – to do good to people, that is, the concept of goodness, plays an important role. In the development of events, the fight against any oppression and evil is carried out not with weapons, but with the illuminating spiritual light – goodness. The images depicted in the work, especially the image of Hamro Baba, strengthen the artistic and philosophical basis of this idea. Although Hamro Baba is blind, his faith in life, humanity and the power of goodness is impressively illuminated. The wisdom that is said in his language, “He who brings water, the path of the one who sees water becomes clear,” puts forward the idea that a person who does good will definitely reach the “illuminated path.”

         In conclusion, national values, national character and national spirit are among the main factors determining the content of literary and artistic works. It is through literature that writers fulfill the “mission” of transmitting the historical heritage, traditions, religious beliefs and moral principles of the people from generation to generation. Such works play an important role in the spiritual formation of the modern reader, as well as in the process of self-awareness.

          In the work of Erkin A’zam, the national spirit, national character and traditional thinking have found a deep artistic expression. The heroes in his works reflect the mentality of the Uzbek people with their natural stature, complex mental state, inner experiences and relationship to the environment. Through a variety of images, the author creates life events familiar to every reader. This makes the literary work even closer to the reader. In particular, the reflection of rural life, folk thinking, kindness, patience, respect and family life are expressed in the works in a realistic and convincing way. By comparing yesterday and today, the writer analyzes the changes in the human spiritual world, how personal experiences are manifested against the background of changes in society. As a result, the literary work is not only an artistic phenomenon that gives aesthetic pleasure, but also a means of preserving and developing national identity.

                                    References:

1. Spirituality. Dictionary of basic concepts. -Tashkent, 2021. – p. 640).

2. From the article “The issue of national values and national character” by Munisa Mavrulova, senior lecturer at the Uzbekistan State Institute of Arts and Culture, Doctor of Philosophy in Philosophy

3. Erkin A’zam. The story “Suv yoqalab” // Collection: “Jannat o ‘zi qadadir”. – “Sharq” NMAK editorial office, Tashkent – 2007

4. Rasulov, M. Spirituality and moral principles in Uzbek literature. – Tashkent, 2019.

5. Karimova, G. National character and its interpretation in literary images. – Bukhara, 2021.

6. Sobirov, R. Uzbek national mentality and its expression in literature. – Tashkent, 2018.

7. Tursunov, A. National values and modern Uzbek society. – Samarkand, 2020.

8. https://saviya.uz/hayot/tarjimai-hol/erkin-azam-1950/

9. https://qalampir.uz/news/prezident-ma-naviyatni-yuksaltirish-buyicha-yigilish-ukerdi-31829

10. https://library.ziyonet.uz/book/86116

11. https://vaqf.uz/uz/lists/view/455

12. https://arxiv.uz/uz/documents/slaydlar/pedagogik-psixologiya/milliy-qadriyatlar

Direction

            Before things turned bad, Jason’s father taught him to shave against the grain. The blade might draw blood, but the results were closer.

            Jason’s stepfather shrugged. “With the grain works too.” Stepfathers could be replaced, he knew, so he went easy.

            During this month’s prison visit, Jason’s father slid his son’s hand across his newly smooth skull. “Nobody can grab my hair,” he said. “You should try it.”

            Jason’s stepfather drove him there every month and waited in the parking lot. It was the least he could do since the boy lost his mother in a way no one should.

INNOVATIVE APPROACHES TO ENGAGING STUDENTS IN ACTIVE LEARNING: PROJECT-BASED LEARNING AND PROBLEM-BASED TEACHING METHODS

Qodirov Farrux Ergash o‘g‘li

Head of the Department of Mathematics and Information 

Technology in Education

Shahrisabz State Pedagogical Institute

Boboqulova Durdona Sanjar qizi

2nd-year student, Mathematics major

Shahrisabz State Pedagogical Institute

Abstract: This article explores innovative methods of engaging students in active learning in higher education — namely project-based learning and problem-based teaching methods. These methods are designed to foster independent thinking and the development of practical skills. Project-based learning provides opportunities to solve real-life problems, while problem-based learning enhances students’ analytical and critical thinking abilities. The study highlights the role of these approaches in improving the effectiveness of education. As a result, it is confirmed that innovative methods play an important role in improving the quality of professional training.

Keywords: Innovative pedagogical technologies, project-based learning, problem-based learning, active learning, independent thinking, practical skills, higher education, learning effectiveness, interactive learning, professional training

—

Introduction: In modern higher education, actively engaging students in the learning process is considered a crucial pedagogical task. Innovative pedagogical technologies are regarded as the main tools for improving the quality of education and for developing not only the theoretical knowledge but also the practical skills of young specialists. In particular, project-based learning and problem-based teaching methods are recognized as effective approaches to fostering independent thinking, creativity, and critical reasoning in students.

Project-based learning is a form of education that organizes students’ activities around solving real-life problems, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in practice. This method makes the learning process interactive, contextual, and engaging, enabling a deeper understanding of the subject. Problem-based learning, on the other hand, is a pedagogical approach that encourages students to identify, analyze, and seek solutions to problems independently. Through this method, students develop logical reasoning, decision-making, and systematic thinking skills.

Today, along with the above-mentioned approaches, digital technologies and interactive tools are widely introduced to increase the effectiveness of the learning process, which in turn contributes to raising the quality of education to a new level. Therefore, studying the pedagogical foundations, practical significance, and effectiveness of innovative approaches in engaging students in learning is considered one of the urgent issues.

Problem Statement: In modern higher education institutions, improving the quality of the learning process, ensuring high student engagement, and developing their independent thinking, creativity, and practical skills are urgent challenges. Traditional teaching methods often fail to sufficiently motivate student activity, which leads to a decrease in educational effectiveness.

For this reason, enriching the educational process with innovative pedagogical technologies — especially project-based and problem-based learning methods — is of great importance. Project-based learning directs students toward solving practical problems, increases their responsibility, and creates opportunities to apply knowledge in real-life situations. Problem-based learning, meanwhile, motivates students to develop self-management, critical, and logical thinking skills.

Therefore, identifying the effectiveness of these approaches in the learning process and examining their impact on students’ activity, academic performance, and creative potential is of both scientific and practical significance.

Research Methods: This study employed a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods. First, to establish a theoretical foundation, scientific literature, articles, and practical manuals in the fields of pedagogy, psychology, and educational technology were analyzed.

Second, to study the implementation of project-based and problem-based teaching methods in higher education institutions, surveys, interviews, and observations were conducted. Surveys explored the attitudes of students and teachers toward the new pedagogical methods, their participation in the learning process, challenges, and successes. Interviews provided insights into teachers’ approaches and difficulties in applying these innovations in practice.

In addition, experimental learning groups were organized, in which students’ knowledge, skills, and engagement were assessed when project-based and problem-based learning methods were applied. Statistical tools — including descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and comparative methods — were used to analyze the data. These tools ensured the objectivity and reliability of the research and allowed for the scientific evaluation of the effectiveness of innovative pedagogical approaches.

Research Results and Discussion: The results of the study showed that project-based learning and problem-based teaching methods are significantly more effective in engaging students in learning than traditional methods. In the experimental group, students’ academic performance and independent learning skills improved noticeably.

Project-based learning not only directed students toward theoretical knowledge but also enabled them to solve real-life problems, fostering their creativity and critical thinking abilities. Problem-based learning had a positive effect on the development of logical reasoning, analytical ability, and independent decision-making skills among students.

Survey and interview results confirmed that most students considered these methods interesting and motivating, and that their activity and participation in the learning process increased. Teachers also acknowledged the effectiveness of these approaches in improving educational quality, while emphasizing the need for professional development and methodological support in their implementation.

Furthermore, the study revealed that successful application of project-based and problem-based learning requires revising curricula and assessment systems, adapting learning materials, and using modern digital tools. This ensures that the educational process becomes more interactive and tailored to students’ needs.

Overall, the findings demonstrated that the widespread integration of innovative pedagogical technologies is a key factor in improving educational quality, enhancing student engagement, and developing practical skills. Therefore, systematic implementation of project-based and problem-based learning methods, along with continuous teacher training, should be a priority to make the learning process more effective.

Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrated that project-based and problem-based teaching methods are highly effective in actively engaging students in the learning process. These methods promote independent thinking, creativity, and the development of practical skills, preparing students to solve real-life problems.

Innovative pedagogical approaches play a crucial role in improving educational quality, encouraging student participation, and enhancing the interactivity of the learning process. The research also revealed that successful implementation of these methods requires revising curricula, integrating modern technologies, and improving teachers’ professional skills.

Therefore, systematically expanding the use of project-based and problem-based learning in higher education makes the learning process more effective and modern, while significantly contributing to the preparation of highly qualified professionals.

References:

Abdullayev, B. (2020). Innovative Pedagogical Technologies: Theory and Practice. Tashkent: Teacher Publishing.

Karimov, M. (2021). Project-Based Learning Methodology. Tashkent: Science.

Rasulova, N. (2019). Problem-Based Learning Methods and Their Effectiveness. Journal of Pedagogy, 3(12), 45-52.

Sobirov, T. (2022). Interactive Methods in Higher Education. Tashkent: University Press.

Tashkent State University. (2023). Innovations in the Educational Process: Scientific Collection. Tashkent.

UNESCO. (2018). Innovative Pedagogies for Powerful Learning: Toolkit for Educators. Paris: UNESCO Publishing.

Zokirov, A. (2020). Methods of Developing Critical Thinking in Education. Scientific Bulletin, 4(7), 78-85.

Grzegorz Wróblewski was born in 1962 in Gdańsk and grew up in Warsaw. Since 1985 he has been living in Copenhagen. English translations of his work are available in Our Flying Objects (trans. Joel Leonard Katz, Rod Mengham, Malcolm Sinclair, Adam Zdrodowski, Equipage, 2007), A Marzipan Factory (trans. Adam Zdrodowski, Otoliths, 2010), Kopenhaga (trans. Piotr Gwiazda, Zephyr Press, 2013), Let’s Go Back to the Mainland (trans. Agnieszka Pokojska, Červená Barva Press, 2014), Zero Visibility (trans. Piotr Gwiazda, Phoneme Media, 2017), Dear Beloved Humans (trans. Piotr Gwiazda, Lavender/Dialogos Books, 2023), I Really Like Lovers of Poetry (trans. Grzegorz Wróblewski & Marcus Silcock Slease, Červená Barva Press, 2024), Tatami in Kyoto (Literary Waves Publishing, 2024). Asemic writing book Shanty Town (Post-Asemic Press, 2022), asemic object Asemics (zimZalla, 2025).

The Valence Of Cynicism

                    (I)

With money, 

love from people comes around

People’s interest towards you abound

They want relationship with you

Their interest is hidden from your view

Some want  you to have intimacy with them

Their ‘want-back-in return’ you won’t condemn

When they are satisfied with they want,

they say outside your hearing what you are not.

You want to show altruism

But they depict Cynicism.

       (Ii)

Diogenes was a character of transparency

His mannerism was void of hypocrisy

The truth was exposing the lies of culture of humanity

Ancient Greek had its elitism off the reality

Living by the idea was an evidence

He gave the ideology of Cynicism a substance

The ancient Greek elite kept his activities in private 

 Diogenes’ lifestyle of copulation and defecation in public exposed his mate.

The double-standard culture was typical among the elites.

Diogenes’ idea of Cynicism  unveiled the truth the less-considered minorities.

Iii)

Politicians are seen as great tools for change

But are concerned from what they to gain  the meagre wage

Politicians unveils to their subjects  what they want to hear

But ensure they utterly steer clear

Politicians encourage the use of vaccine shots

But they immune themselves from the faults.

Politicians appear to be selfless in service

But are really spineless-to the people in terms of importance

Politicians assure people change is on the way

But eventually leave them in dismay

I am a poetess

I am lucky to be a female poet in the 21st century.

During thousands years of history,

Women’s status and rights have always been humble.

Now I want to stand among the forerunners of the present.

It’s not just about being a good daughter, wife and mother,

Nor does it just consume energy and time to sew and cook,

But to be as strong and as independent as a pine tree.

Of course, we also smile like a flower.

Like Marie Curie’s wisdom rising to the heights,

Like Nightingale, the founder of poetry,

Like Simon de Beauvoir writing her own philosophy.

When you can hold an umbrella for someone else

You don’t have to be afraid of rain and snow,

You are worthy of life in that way.

You are also the creator of this era.

******************

Anna Keiko, a distinguished poetess and essayist from Shanghai, China, has made a profound impact on contemporary literature. A graduate of Shanghai East China University with a Bachelor’s degree in Law, she has achieved global recognition for her poetry, which has been translated into more than 30 languages and published in over 500 journals, magazines, and media outlets across 40 countries. Keiko is the founder and chief editor of the ACC Shanghai Huifeng Literature Association and serves as a Chinese representative and director of the International Cultural Foundation Ithaca. Her affiliations extend to Immagine & Poesia in Italy and the Canadian-Cuban Literary Union, reflecting her commitment to fostering cross-cultural literary exchanges. Her poetic oeuvre spans six collections, including “Lonely in the Blood and Absurd Language”, showcasing her exploration of human emotions, environmental concerns, and existential themes. Her innovative style and evocative imagery have earned her numerous accolades, such as the 30th International Poetry Award in Italy and the World Peace Ambassador Certificate in 2024. Notably, she was the first Chinese recipient of the Cross-Cultural Exchange Medal for Significant Contribution to World Poetry, awarded in the United States in 2023. Her works, including “Octopus Bones” and other acclaimed poems, have resonated with readers worldwide, garnering invitations to prominent international poetry festivals and conferences. Her dedication to the arts extends beyond poetry, encompassing prose, essays, lyrics, and drama, underscoring her versatility as a writer. Nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2020, Anna Keiko continues to break barriers, bringing Chinese literature to the global stage.

Joan McNerney

Butterfly

Wrapped in ashen clouds

pale shrouds of sadness.

Retracing each dimension of

my heart yet finding no refuge.

My head bent recounting

all the days of my life.

Lost in this blur, this landscape.

Where am I? Where can I go?

Wanting only one fine thought to

fill this empty haze of hours.

One fine contour, touch, color,

one fine tone to breach the silence.

Who stole my sparkling sky

leaving only memories?

What remains is only minute after

minute of more and more loss.

Always searching to find harbor in

oceans where waves rise to heaven.

Within deep quiet, small awakenings begin.

Fragile butterfly…radiant blue winging up up.

Live Oak Boughs

Boughs build archways as tips
of trees touch each other. What
was shaded green becomes
nocturnal shadow. A crescent moon
hangs from heaven. Light tracing
foliage falls dropping
dusty deep upon ground.

Secrets lie inside edged shadows.
Animals hide under darkness
resounding through night
as leaves rustle. All changing
except this pattern of what
is now formed.

When The Moon Is New

Groping through darkness

knocking everything down.

Down into enormous night

where thoughts unravel.

Memories moan past us as

shadows quiver across walls.

We lie pinned to bed sheets

like captive butterflies.

Dry butterflies, our throats

are brittle, eyes turning

from light. Sore arms reach

for anything soft to hold.

Remembering seasons gone by.

So many lost promises.

This huge moment surrounding us.

Wide awake we wait for the new day.

Nightscape

Fog horns sound though

air soaked in blackness.

All evening long listening

to hiss of trucks, cars.

Shadows brush across walls

as trees trace their branches.

Gathering and waving

together then swaying apart.

While I sleep, stars glide

through heaven making

their appointed rounds in

ancient sacred procession.

Dreams as smooth as rose

petals spill into my mind

growing wild patches in

this dark garden of night.

Almost Asleep

Curling into a question mark

eyes shuttered

lips pursed

hands empty.

Dropping through

long dusty shafts

down into dank cellars.

Leaving behind faded day.

That last cup of sunlight

pouring from fingertips.

Lulled by rattling trains,

sighs of motors.

Bringing nothing but

memory into night.

Now I will untie knots

tear off wrappings opening

wide bundles of dreams.