Of Glasses and Poems

If I were not a poet,

I would be a glassblower.

The disciplines share a logic:

Heat.

Restraint.

Calibrated breath.

Unstable materials must first be tamed,

Then persuaded into a desired form.

Sand enters fire.

Language enters breath.

In each case, raw resistance must be guided,

not forced.

What slowly emerges as fragile

Is the lovechild of reason, faith, and science —

An interplay of delicate opacity with force,

Or, of primeval obstinacy with light

Where elements that do not agree must interact and hold — 

Until they meld for eternity.

Evolutionist nightmare: creation at its most exacting —

Less of mortal manipulation

than Divine expression.

Bionote: 
Emeniano Acain Somoza, Jr. considers himself the official spiritual advisor of his roommates, Gordot and Dwight – the first a goldfish, the other a Turkish Van cat. His works have been published in The Poetry Magazine, Moria Poetry Journal, Fogged Clarity, Everyday Poem, Loch Raven Review, The Buddhist Poetry Review, The Philippines Free Press, Troubadour 21, Full of Crow, Indigo Rising, Asia Writes, Triggerfish Critical Review, Troubadors 21, Gloom Cupboard, TAYO, Haggard & Halloo, and elsewhere. His first book, A Fistful of Moonbeams, was published by Kilmog Press in April 2010. His second, Kleenex Theory, published by Createspace-Amazon, came out in 2015. He is busy anthologizing emptiness and boredom at the moment.

THE EFFECT OF PODCAST-BASED INSTRUCTION AND STORYTELLING TECHNIQUES ON EFL LEARNERS’ LISTENING COMPREHENSION AND PRONUNCIATION ACCURACY

Khusanjonova Muhktasarhkon Khamdamjon qizi

Student at Uzbekistan State World language university

E-mail: husanjonovamuxtasar@gmail.com

Abstract: This article explores benefits of utilizing podcasts and story-telling methods for developing listening and pronunciation skills while learning foreign languages. Nowadays, these methods are crucial for developing learners’ listening and comprehension. In this article, we will see how these two methods are really effective in real life.

Key words: listening and pronunciation skills, podcasts, storytelling, concentration

Introduction:  In modern world, developing listening skill is not only demand for some certificates like IELTS, TOEFL, or others, but also it is vitally important to understand cultural circumstances. For a lot of people, listening is the most difficult section. Learning in only traditional lessons without beneficial ways is so boring for learners and of course it forms hate in learners mind to new language. In initial time, we must know what ways are helpful to improve it.  Actually, using podcasts and story-telling methods is one of the best ways. What is podcast and storytelling? Podcast – collection of general themes of native speakers’ speeches about interesting, documentary, funny themes or other ones. They can help to reduce misunderstanding and learn new languages from native speakers in English. Storytelling is utilizing written sounds, pictures for talking some story again. It is so useful to make learning prosses meaningful and attractive.  This article highlights advantages of these two methods.

There are key points using podcasts and story-telling:

 First, they improve intonation and rhythm in pronunciation.

 While learners tell story again and again, they can have better speech. They try to understand general idea. This situation has double positive points. It is productive way to make good intonation and improve memory than other traditional methods. Furthermore, it gives a chance to remember good ideas while speaking. Of course it is necessary for beautiful speeches. Moreover, learners can listen native’s accent and make use of it in real life. Additionally, it encourages better memory

Second, better concentration.

 When learners listen some podcast, they can concentrate very well. Because they pay attention more and more to a podcast’s words. They have interesting meaning. In listeners’ mind it emerges a question as “What will be next?” Notably, there are emotional opinions or sentences in podcasts. Specifically, sometimes they are amusing, comic, or cause you to cry. They force to listen alertly.

According to some researches,  among noisy condition by listening podcast people can enhance their concentration continuously. For instance, when we listen to podcast, we try to understand what about it, why we must listen it or etc. In addition, we have an opportunity to learn native speakers’ words, collacations.  Indeed it is the great way to form our language more natural than learning by heart prepared words.

Thirdly, a developing mindset. 

While listening podcast, learners gather lots of information in their mind about something. Especially, there are so many podcasts which are beneficial for them in English. As an example, when people watch a podcast about countries, the most beautiful places, the cleanest ones, they will have general idea about it. If they do not understand very well, they may watch or listen again and aging. It is one of the extra benefits for learners. In the same way, it is so comfortable way to learn easily. Today’s research shows that, listening podcasts can affect positively by increasing creative facts or ideas. In other words, by listening podcasts learners can take motivations. They are created from real life situations. And people can have opportunities to select ones which they are interested in theme from wide range of podcasts.

Conclusion. To summarize, listening skill may enhance by adding podcasts and story-telling methods to learning process.  Podcasts can give attentive and memorable materials. Storytelling can also improve learner’s speech. Always Using these methods is a way to have perfect listening skill. With these two methods no one tired of learning, otherwise he/she may love the new language as a native. Indisputable fact that, they will be successful in this language with so many awards or their career.

References:

1. Smith, J. (2020). Storytelling in Language Education. Oxford University Press
2. Renandya, W. A., & Farrell, T. S. C. (2011). ‘Teacher, the tape is too fast!’ Extensive listening in ELT. ELT Journal, 65(1), 52–59. https://doi.org/10.1093/elt/ccq015
3. Ramirez, M. G. (2024). The Use of Podcasts for Language Learning: A Systematic Review of Literature. International Journal of English Language Studies, 6(1), 47–53. https://doi.org/10.32996/ijels.2024.6.1.4
4. Ramirez, M. G. (2025). Systematic review on the use of podcasts for language learning. Journal of Language Teaching and Learning Research, 18(1), 45–67. https://doi.org/10.xxxx/jltr.2025.18.1.45

Mukhtasarkhon Khusanjonova was born on September 12, in Uzbekistan, Fergana.  She is a student at Uzbekistan State World Language University, English philology faculty. She is a bright and creative student from Uzbekistan. She enjoys learning foreign languages, especially English and Spanish. Muxtasar is also interested in education and personal growth.

Komilova Parizod

First-Year Student, Faculty of Pedagogy

Holder of Native Language and English Language Certificates

When Days Arrive and Flowers Bloom

When days arrive and flowers bloom,

These were the dreams my thoughts would groom.

Distant wishes now appear,

Oh, how pure this state, how dear.

One single line can’t hold the sense,

Its joy climbs hills and mountains immense.

No words adorned in shining art

Can paint the bliss within the heart.

We came, we came before this light,

To build our happiness so bright.

Don’t stand aside — come, join the flame,

Time is short, but joy we claim.

Leave the silence, hush no more,

Even шум has charm in store.

Though you tire and feel the sting,

Hide your tears — let courage sing.

Such is life — at times a game,

It conquers you without a name.

Won’t leave you resting in your space,

It stirs your nerves in restless chase.

Do not blame the helpless fate,

Nor seek the guilty out in hate.

What is written comes to be,

Trust — there’s hidden good you’ll see.

Date of Birth: 26.10.2007

Farg‘ona Region, Uzbekistan District

Sochtepa Neighborhood, Chinor Street, House 93

Faculty of Primary and Technological Education, Primary Education Program, 1st Year, Group 03/25

National Values and Traditions of the Uzbek People

Abduraufova Nilufar Khurshidjon qizi

Student of Group 03/25, Primary Education Program, Faculty of Primary and Technological Education, Qoqon State University

Abstract:

This article discusses the national customs and traditions of the Uzbek people. It highlights the role of national traditions, their cultural uniqueness compared to other nations, the appreciation of inherited customs from ancestors, and the fact that these traditions have retained their significance even in the current era of modernization. Real-life examples are provided to show that each nation can demonstrate its identity primarily through its national customs, emphasizing the importance of respecting and preserving them. Observations indicate that the unique practices of the Uzbek people are one of the main factors ensuring societal stability and the continuity of cultural heritage.

Keywords: Uzbek people, nationality, tradition, custom, value, culture, national clothing

Introduction:

Throughout several millennia of human history, various cultures, customs, and traditions have existed. Each tradition reflects the moral views of the people and the social relations in their daily life, passing down from generation to generation as a priceless heritage.

According to historical sources, the Uzbeks, originating from Dashti Qipchoq, consist of ninety-two tribes and clans that have become part of the Uzbek nation. Historian T. Sultanov notes that these ninety-two tribes included both Turkic and non-Turkic peoples who inhabited Central Asia at that time. The Uzbek people are among the ancient nations that have held a unique place in world civilization. In the present era, characterized by increasingly global interactions, it is essential for every nation to preserve its national values and pass them on to future generations.

The aim of this research is to scientifically analyze the main traditions of the Uzbek people while highlighting their significance and role in human life.

Methodology:

The study was conducted using observational, historical, and comparative methods. During the research, historical literature and studies related to cultural science were examined. Additionally, scientific articles on traditional Uzbek ceremonies and holidays, as well as contemporary observations, were analyzed. The collected data were organized, generalized, and scientific conclusions were drawn.

Results:

Analysis shows that the national customs, culture, and traditions of the Uzbek people manifest in the following main directions:

In Uzbek households, one of the most important values is hospitality. In Uzbek oral literature, expressions such as “Mehmon-otangdan ulug‘” (“A guest is greater than your father”), “Mehmon-atoyi xudo” (“A guest is a gift from God”), and “Mehmon kelgan uy barakali” (“The house is blessed when a guest arrives”) emphasize hospitality, abundance, generosity, and respect. For example, when a guest arrives at an Uzbek home, the table is prepared first, essential food is presented, and then tea is served to the guest. This demonstrates respect for the guest and the sincerity and warmth of our hospitable people. Greetings are traditionally accompanied by handshakes or hugs, followed by inquiries about the person’s health, work, and home life.

Many customs relate to family life, including childbirth and upbringing ceremonies (cradle ceremonies, circumcision ceremonies) and marriage rituals (courtship, Fatiha, wedding). In addition, elder men visit neighborhood teahouses to drink tea, socialize with friends and brothers, and stay informed about local news, which has also become a tradition. The unity and benevolence of our people are especially evident during weddings and celebrations. On such joyous days, respected community members announce the gathering in the village early in the morning with the word “oshga” to bring everyone together.

When someone passes away, the entire village collectively supports the bereaved family, prepares for the ceremony, and ensures that no one is left alone in difficult times.

The Uzbek nation celebrates the arrival of spring and the awakening of nature with Navruz, strengthens religious values through Ramadan and Eid al-Adha, and commemorates Independence Day as a symbol of unity and solidarity. National dishes, such as pilaf, are prepared on these special days. Those gathered around the table express sincere and kind wishes to each other, symbolizing blessings, peace, and abundance.

Uzbek girls also have unique customs that distinguish them from girls in other countries. Before holidays or wedding ceremonies, they decorate their eyes with kohl and apply natural beautifying oils, style their hair carefully to reflect purity and modesty, and wear traditional clothing made of atlas and adras fabrics. These customs not only enhance their elegance but also vividly showcase our national values.

Discussion:

Observations and analyses indicate that the customs and traditions of the Uzbek people, formed over centuries, play an invaluable role in the moral development of individuals. Even in the era of digital technologies, while adapted to modern times, these traditions retain their value.

For example, decrees by our national leader Shavkat Mirziyoyev on “Developing National Values and Spirituality” help reinforce national values in society. The designation of Friday as “National Day” across Uzbekistan, when citizens wear traditional symbols such as doppi hats, chapan robes, and clothes made from atlas and adras fabrics, reflects respect for our priceless values and the necessity to preserve them.

Respecting and maintaining the national customs and traditions of our ancestors, preserving ancient values through generations, is an integral part of the Uzbek mentality.

Conclusion:

In Uzbekistan, which is gradually entering a new era of national development, traditions are preserved as cultural heritage. The national culture of the Uzbek people reflects their identity and distinctiveness, and it is crucial to teach future generations to honor and respect these values from childhood. Our customs are a guarantee of our unity!

References:

Azizov R. “Uzbek Customs and Traditions.” Tashkent, 2021.

Mirzayeva Sh., Asqarova M.H. A glance at the history of Uzbek national ethnic clothing // Oriental Art and Culture Journal. 2022. Vol. 3, Issue 1, March.

Shoniyozov K. “The Formation Process of the Uzbek People.” Tashkent, 2001.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Winter Memories

Once again returns that bitter cold,

That frosty air, that winter old.

Yet in our hearts still burns the glow—

Warm love, the breath of long ago.

On sleds we’d glide, on ice we’d slide,

Slowly toward the school we’d stride.

We’d break the icicles from the eaves,

Eat them like ice-cream winter weaves.

Now we’ve grown, the years have flown,

No longer rushing schoolward, known.

No more mischief, no wild run,

Nor slipping on the ice for fun…

Xasanova Aziza Kumushbek qizi student at Tashkent economics and pedogogy university 

Critical Reading of Beyond Heaven Beyond Hell 

By Jernail Singh Anand

(Critical Reading by Mauro Montacchiesi)

*

Beyond Heaven Beyond Hell is not JUST an epic poem: beyond that, it’s a philosophical inquisition staged as verse play, where divinity and humanity alike are compelled to give testimony, along with technology and conscience. Anand builds a cheeky metaphysical architecture where Heaven and Hell are no longer places you go, but states of being, and Earth is the fiercely contested reach between them. The epic posits an extreme thesis: Modern man’s moral crisis surpassed the traditional eschatology, requiring other ethical tools — judiciousness with AI, say — to read the ledger of handiwork.

At the heart of the work lies a brutal dichotomy: good is punished, evil prospers and divine justice seems slow, opaque, even corrupt. Such tension constitutes the dramatic engine of the poem.

Figures such as God, Dharmaraja, Chitragupta, Narad, Craza (the techno-king), and Robertica (the sentient machine) are not ornamental allegorical figures; they are dialectical catalysts through which Anand examines power, obligation and crimes against clear conscience. “ICU of AI” is most striking: a chillingly modern purgatory where conscience is scanned, intention weighed and punishment optimized. Here, speed replaces mercy, efficiency takes the place of mystery — and even the gods get nervous. So be it, kind of: progress goes both ways.

The epic is an artificial form that combines scriptural cadences, dramatic dialogue, chorus and philosophical treatise. The prose is deliberately plain-spoken — sometimes plain-old spoken to the point of bluntness — forgoing florid beauty in service of moral clarity. Such refrains as “Language has been used on an enormous humanity scale to delude the masses” are not poetic metaphors but moral axioms. The power of the epic lies in repetition, accumulation, relentless questioning: Why do people pray yet not act? How is it that the leaders are well and the good are ill? 

How fear triumphs when wisdom loses. Anand refuses such easy comforts; he insists on responsibility.

But a corner is turned when the poet finds himself brought before God, while still alive.

The epic’s social critique is just as unsparing. Religious heads, power brokers and the socalled “Club of the Wise” are revealed as empty holders of delegated authority. Shrines are turned into stages, rituals become form without meaning and wisdom the mask for greed.

When catastrophe at last rouses humanity’s fear, the poem compels its bitterest irony: terror restores faith where conscience had failed. What teaching failed to accomplish, thunder does. That is the verdict, as chilling as it is unforgettable.

Ultimately, Beyond Heaven Beyond Hell claims that there is nothing to look for in Heaven or Hell— both places are already instantiated in human behavior. The epic is a moral seismograph of our times: technologically advanced, ethically beggared — theatrically devout, spiritually adrift. Anand writes with prophetic urgency, not to entertain or please, but to warn. You do not close this book comforted; you close it implicated.