Adam Fieled/for Synchronized Chaos

From This Charming Lab (reading), Kelly Writers House, West Philadelphia, March 27, 2004

Stoning the Devil

In Baudelaire’s famous prose poem, The Generous Gambler, we follow the narrator, ostensibly Charlie B. himself, as he encounters a mysterious stranger on a Parisian boulevard. The stranger, lo and behold, turns out to be Lucifer himself. Baudelaire depicts him as a man of wealth and taste, who has, indeed, been around for many a long year, and stolen many a man’s soul and faith. Of course, Baudelaire follows him. They get regally smashed, and the Devil reveals to him the secrets of the universe. For Baudelaire, stoning the devil means getting him stoned, wooing him, bringing him into the human fold for a little Dionysian sport. The problem with the Baudelairian method of Satan-handling is that you lose your soul. The Devil corrupts you to the point that right and wrong have no meaning; irony enters the blood and chills it; paradox becomes poison; everybody looks like a leper; and you can’t feel anything. It helps to remember our good old read-it-in-seventh-grade friend Young Goodman Brown. His encounter with Beelzebub leaves him embittered, disenchanted, but at least he still has a soul (or, as much of a soul as a tee-totaling Puritan can have). Young Goodman Brown stones the devil by rejecting him out of hand. Stoning here means throwing stones: even if it be from the glass house of mortal ignorance.

So, somewhere between the Baudelairian and Hawthornian models of Lucifer-human relations, we may find an ideal solution. We can lure the Devil into drunkenness and then bash him over the head with a rock, or we can bash him over the head with a rock and then slip him a joint to ease the pain (mostly our pain, of course). The Devil, the epitome of imperviousness, will go on being the great professional Ironist he is (a bit like Frank Zappa). The reward of this balanced approach for us, as writers, is that we can lure the Devil close to us, just close enough to learn some of his simpler tricks, then send him on his way when he starts demanding blood. Muslims the world over “stone the Devil,” but I fear their ritual lacks a certain subtlety and understanding of Satanic grandeur- how it can be harnessed, refined, made to serve human ends. The Devil, more than any other Being, understands the complexity of existence. I would guess that things are as complicated in Hell as they are here. In the end, what is art but a testament to the complexity of life: manifold levels and layers, perpetually enclosing us in a wide web. One could make the argument that art is essentially ironic, in the sense that it posits unreachable worlds that we long for, but cannot touch. We must face it: art is a Devil’s game. We’re here to play, and we guarantee you it will be more fun than Yahtzee.

Dominique

So many stories are wrapped up in this next poem, some hilarious, some harrowing. It all revolves around a single woman and her phenomenal ability to enthrall men. Her name was, and is, Dominique, and I’ve never met anyone like her. When I met her, I was a high school junior and she was a freshman. She was stunningly beautiful, with a seductive, feline grace that suggested both Lolita and Liv Tyler. This alone wouldn’t qualify her to play such an interesting part in my life and the lives of those around me; there were a lot of beautiful girls at Cheltenham; but Dominique had something more. What do we call that ineffable IT, that compelling magnetism that certain people have? Is it merely beauty, or charisma, or youth? For me, Dominique’s charm lay in all these things, and also in something extra— a certain mischievous glint in her eye, a certain toss of her head, that suggested a sort of supernatural ecstasy, as if she were walking around in a narcotic trance all the time (which, I was later to learn, she was). Dominique was, quite simply, the most compelling female I’d met up to that point. Oddly enough, I didn’t fall hard for her at all. I was able to keep my distance because, to a certain extent, I saw a hollowness beneath the charisma, an unwillingness to dig beneath surfaces and live truly. Dominique for me was a sort of caricature of adolescent sexiness, and I loved her archly condescending smile, but it didn’t pierce me to the bone.

My best friend at the time, however, was absolutely, unbelievably, and pitifully smitten. He hung on her every word as though she was Godhead incarnate, recorded every encounter in an especially prized notebook, and just basically made an idiot of himself whenever she was around. Then, Dominique started dating another one of my friends, simultaneously making me her “Man of the Month,” and things started to get really messy. A fist fight for me outside math class; a death threat; notes for me in the mail inscribed with lipstick, reading “He finds a deep satisfaction in pain; for that pain comes from her”; and other such nonsense. Basically Chris, aka Mr. Smitten, never forgave me for going after Dominique when he was so desperately in love, while Adam, Mr. Better-Attack-Me-Outside-Math-Class, became contrite years later and started randomly showing up at my gigs, camera in hand. 

Having given you this background, you’ll probably understand why running into Dominique on a sultry night in the East Village was such a big deal for me. I was lonely as hell in New York, overwhelmed, numbing myself with huge quantities of pot and speed pills. Dominique, for all her cattiness, rose to the occasion and delivered a knock-out performance as supportive friend with benefits. Unsurprisingly, she supported her academic career at NYU by dealing drugs, and I thought it would be fair game to throw that in, seeing as it was honest. Formally, this piece is me trying my best to write like Keats, sort of the same thing William Carlos Williams was doing in his early twenties. For me, WCW’s Keatsian poems aren’t that good, probably because he didn’t know Dominique. She’s a Muse— a real, honest-to-God morsel of madness. Not that I’ve ever forgotten her implacable selfishness, remorseless narcissism and insufferable insularity; but it pays to remember what’s best in her. 

Adam Fieled is a writer based in Philadelphia. His books include Equations, Beams, Apparition Poems, Opera Bufa, and Cheltenham. Manuscripts-in-progress include Something Solid and Curiosities.  

Katkala — A Priceless Heritage Passed Down from Our Ancestors

The Khorezm oasis has been distinguished since ancient times by its rich history, unique culture, and ancient architectural monuments. One of these historical monuments is Katkala. Katkala is one of the unique historical and archaeological monuments of the Khorezm oasis, covering an area of 9.5 hectares. Various sources dating from the 17th to the 20th centuries contain information about this monument.

Katkala is an important historical source for studying the creative potential, architectural traditions, economic activities, and way of life of our ancestors. According to researchers, the fortress once served as an administrative center. Its formation is closely connected with the historical processes during which ancient states emerged in the territory of Khorezm and urban culture developed.

The defensive structures of Katkala, its fortress walls, and archaeological artifacts discovered there demonstrate the high level of construction and craftsmanship of our ancestors. Archaeological investigations carried out in the area have revealed various ceramic objects, household items, weapons, and remains of architectural structures. These findings indicate that a developed cultural and social life existed in the area in ancient times.

Archaeological research provides valuable information about the way of life of the inhabitants of Katkala, the crafts and economic activities they engaged in, and the objects they used in their everyday lives. In this respect, Katkala is not merely an ancient fortress but also a valuable scientific source that makes it possible to study the material and spiritual culture of our ancestors.

The study of Katkala contributes to a deeper understanding of different periods in the history of Khorezm. Archaeological artifacts discovered at the site make it possible to investigate historical processes not only through written sources but also through material evidence. Therefore, the archaeological research conducted at Katkala is of great scientific significance.

Today, Katkala is valued not only as a historical monument inherited from the past, but also as an important source for studying and preserving the rich cultural heritage of our people for future generations. Every wall, archaeological layer, and artifact of the monument reflects certain aspects of the lives of our ancestors. Therefore, studying, protecting, and preserving this monument is an important responsibility not only of historians but of society as a whole.

Historical monuments are living symbols of a people’s collective memory. By preserving them, we not only protect our past but also contribute to developing historical awareness and respect for the homeland among younger generations. Such monuments built by our ancestors demonstrate their hard work, creativity, and high level of cultural development.

The historical and cultural environment of the ancient city of Kat and its surrounding area is also of particular importance. Since ancient times, the Khorezm oasis has been one of the regions where science, culture, and urban development flourished. This land has also played an important role in the history of world civilization as a place where great scholars emerged.

In conclusion, Katkala is a priceless heritage that reflects the architectural traditions, culture, and historical life of our ancestors. Studying it thoroughly, conducting scientific research, protecting it, and passing it on to future generations is our moral responsibility. After all, a nation that values its historical heritage has a stronger future. Preserving Katkala is an expression of respect for the past, responsibility for the present, and confidence in the future.

My name is Zarnigor Salayeva Bekmamad qizi. I was born in 2007 in Khorezm Region, Uzbekistan. I am currently a second-year student majoring in History at Urgench State University.

I am actively involved in social activities. I am a volunteer of the Girls’ Academy and a volunteer of Khorezm Region. I also have a National Certificate in History with a score of 88%.

Asherah poles

new law: real news: cannibal country . . . storage limits I’d be more on board buyer’s market which music video damn autocorrect to qualify all police, reaally hoping changing delete all the memes if thou wouldst be legacy box a patriot and catholic judges, politicians search for ‘baseless’, that screenshots to be expected two offers came first — remember when I liked let’s digitize of the sort spend a year these correlations and pdf’s you were seizing the means some new intel who’d happily see his popes in convict leasing ‘disproven’ are illusory storing here or one presidents comically reinstated asking questions

2

Oh, and by all indications they’re still at large

Can we all take a moment to pause and recognize that our presidents, royals, prime ministers, popes, bankers, spiritual leaders, celebrities, press, directors, producers, writers, poets, actors, artists, models, musicians, captains of science, technology, academia and industry — and lets not forget to mention the armed forces! — were snuggled up in bed with, some literally sandwiched between a cabal who were trafficking children, making torture pornography, descended from those who funded and instigated the holocaust, apparently did 9/11 and Covid, weaponized Alzheimer’s and Parkinsons, were exploring ‘getting rid of all of the poor’, whilst subsisting on a strict diet composed entirely of human flesh?

so the supper club

have a monopoly 

on violence 

3

provisional 

“Apple’s best new sci-fi show just made a shockingly convincing case for cannibalism.” “Wonder Years star ‘embarrassed’ by how much she loved the taste of her placenta.” An anthropomorphized captain crunch reveals a fridge full of his own kind, discernible by frozen googly eyes staring into camera pleadingly. A shiksa has a whirlwind romance with a man constructed of Pringles until the ravenous masses suddenly leap upon and consume him, of which she cannot resist the temptation to partake herself. A young man in a strange occult ceremony is immersed in oil and withdrawn as an enormous hunk of battered chicken deeply fried.

hot tips

will receive a more escalated

non-acceptance 

I can only once again report am not loving these growing observable trends. Especially considering how much money, how many resources, the quantity of discussion among so many forces, research and analysis goes into expensive ad campaigns that are highly visible to the public in prime places by huge brands, on prominent platforms… Will just say this is not boding well, that such is considered prudent, lucrative, justifiable by organized capital and big business.

lovebombing 

had I juicy details you’d have 

a dead man’s switch

4

the high bar

baby mama

. . . Joseph

is a mensch

shell full

of shells whenever 

they mention family 

keelhauling 

I know people in 

the background 

something taken 

something left

holiday snow

wild thyme

the roach’s

molting 

* “The Cherry Tree Carol” exemplifies Joseph’s journey from doubt to faith through a miraculous event where the unborn Jesus commands a tree to bend, providing fruit for Mary. It showcases trust in divine will by reversing the Edenic fall, while anticipating Christ’s power over nature, divinity, and his future sacrificial death.”

5

madness acting

inconspicuous 

on a summer’s day 

hunchback moon

slow snow 

driving through 

a parking lot

charms . . . 

selling something useless, counting 

on only half returning it

mulberry bush

tortoiseshell sunning 

across the way

sand trap 

his back leg 

kicks up grass

skulking hare

signs appear for

the next sweeping 

lightning round:

the pounding knocks

down another frame

wiping garnet

off base of the glass

napkin darkens

season’s greetings 

under the snow 

a deer carcass

ouiji

not giving the

unwanted truths

* The name is a blend of French (oui) and German (ja) for “yes”.

My mother

My mother’s arms are earth’s most sacred peace,

A sanctuary where all my fears release.

Her every silent wish defines my way,

The meaning of my life, night after day.

Through sleepless nights, her prayers rise for me,

She trusts my future more than I can see.

One gentle look from her becomes a prayer,

For mothers are heaven walking everywhere.

Your name upon my lips makes my voice shake,

A thousand thanks are far too few to take.

Your love—an endless ocean, deep and wide,

When storms surround me, you are still my guide.

You were my mother, father, strength, and light,

Allah’s greatest blessing in my sight.

Shokhida Nazirova — Andijan, Uzbekistan.

Ambassador representing Uzbekistan for several international organizations and a regional leader actively involved in ongoing social initiatives. At the age of 21, she joined Worldwide Professional Women, becoming one of Uzbekistan’s young and promising female leaders.

Through her volunteer work, unwavering determination, and selfless commitment to helping others, she continues to inspire and empower many young people across the region. She is fluent in Italian, German, Russian, Turkish and Kyrgyz.

In the New Uzbekistan, the Voice of a New Generation 

Why should I not praise you before the wide world, calling you “my Uzbek,” When my era has granted me the chance to know my true self, my Uzbek. 

— E. Vohidov 

As I write these lines, two drops of pearl-like tears roll down beneath my glasses. Recently, I traveled to the Tian Shan mountains. Those three days felt like three years. On my way back, the very moment I set foot on my beloved Homeland, my chest filled with the scent of serenity. I felt the taste of peace and happiness. As I got into the car, these lines echoed in my heart: 

My Homeland, you are my pride, 

The soil where traces of my childhood remain. 

You see me off when I leave and wait until I return,  

I feel your love like a mother’s embrace. 

I have seen many lands, I have seen the Tian Shan, 

Yet I understood your true worth even more, my dear motherland.  

I do not need Paris and its Eiffel Tower, 

A handful of your soil is honor and glory for me! 

With these thoughts, I continued my journey. At one moment, I noticed a girl sitting nearby, quietly reading a book. Again, I sank into reflection: 

In which country does a president give a car simply because someone reads a book? 

In which country does the state reward you by funding six months of education if you learn a foreign language for just two months? 

In which country is an entire Olympic town built freely, solely for young people?  

The answer to all of these questions is one: Uzbekistan. 

Indeed, today Uzbekistan is a country of youth. For the first time in history, practical solutions are being implemented to support the dreams and initiatives of the younger generation — solutions that nurture their pursuit of knowledge, creativity, sports, and a rightful place on the international stage. As a result, every young person today has the opportunity to make their voice heard, to present their ideas, national values, and identity to the world.

Yes, today’s generation is educated, healthy, and confidently proving itself on the global stage.Young Uzbeks are studying at the world’s most prestigious universities — Harvard, Oxford, Cambridge, Stanford, and many others. And if we speak of sports, you have surely seen our flag proudly waving atop the world’s greatest arenas at least once. Our young innovators, meanwhile, present their inventions at renowned platforms such as the International Innovation Expo and UN & UNESCO Youth Forums, consistently being in the spotlight of international investors. 

Let us speak through simple facts from 2024–2025: 

For the first time in history, UNESCO’s General Conference was held outside Paris — and that city was Samarkand. Uzbekistan became the first country to make this happen. Moreover, Uzbekistan became a member of the UN Human Rights Council. International education standards were introduced. Transparency and openness were promoted in politics.

For the first time in history, our female karate and judo athletes stood atop the podiums, bringing chains of medals back to the Homeland. For ten consecutive years, our boxers have once again proven that they are among the world’s strongest. In 2025, our footballers carried the Uzbek nation onto the FIFA stage. At just 20 years old, Sindarov once again proved to the world in 2025 that he is the “King of Chess.”

When we analyze these developments, it becomes clear that in recent years Uzbekistan has secured a strong position internationally as an open, reform-oriented country that ties its future to its youth. Remarkable victories in sports, achievements in science and innovation, young men and women studying at leading global universities, and active participation on international platforms are tangible results of this transformation.

State-led youth policy, investments in education and sports, and cooperation with influential international organizations such as the UN and UNESCO have elevated Uzbekistan’s global standing. 

Particularly, initiatives that bring youth rights and opportunities to the international level clearly demonstrate the country’s strategic vision.

Shokhida Nazirova — Andijan, Uzbekistan.

Ambassador representing Uzbekistan for several international organizations and a regional leader actively involved in ongoing social initiatives. At the age of 21, she joined Worldwide Professional Women, becoming one of Uzbekistan’s young and promising female leaders. Through her volunteer work, unwavering determination, and selfless commitment to helping others, she continues to inspire and empower many young people across the region.

Your Tooth Fairy Apologizes

I never showed you where I kept your baby teeth

In a small silver vial

Topped by a golden-winged fairy
Who extends a tiny star-tipped wand

Entire vessel just 2-1/4” tall from base to fairy bun

I hid her in my bedroom on a high closet shelf

In a lidded box filled with fancy, rarely worn lingerie

Concealed in a tangle of lace-trimmed slips, camisoles, petti pants, tap shorts

And silk scarves

It might have crossed my mind to show you her

When you were a teen or so

But you weren’t the kind of kid who’d be enchanted

You’d just scoff and be embarrassed

In your 20s you may have marveled and been charmed

Perhaps given it a primary-tooth-rattling shake

But by then you were off working and traveling

Between life-threatening bouts of acute disease

And at the end, when you came home to hospice in your childhood room

This treasured reliquary filled with your precious baby teeth

Might just have been a god-damned reminder of

The six fucking adult teeth doctors cut out of your left jaw

In excruciating surgery and radiation for secondary cancer there

Randi Rohde

(To Ian) 

HUMAN CAPITAL AND ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH ECONOMIC GROWTH

Annotation — O‘zbek tilida

Annotatsiya. Ushbu maqolada inson kapitalining iqtisodiy o‘sishga ta’siri, uning milliy iqtisodiyot raqobatbardoshligini oshirishdagi o‘rni hamda ta’lim, malaka, sog‘liqni saqlash va innovatsion salohiyat bilan bog‘liqligi tahlil qilinadi. Zamonaviy iqtisodiyot sharoitida inson kapitali mamlakatning uzoq muddatli iqtisodiy rivojlanishini ta’minlovchi asosiy omillardan biri sifatida qaraladi. Tadqiqotda inson kapitaliga investitsiyalarni ko‘paytirish mehnat unumdorligini oshirish, yangi ish o‘rinlarini yaratish, innovatsiyalarni rivojlantirish va aholi daromadlarini ko‘paytirishga xizmat qilishi asoslab beriladi. Shuningdek, O‘zbekistonda inson kapitalini rivojlantirishning ustuvor yo‘nalishlari ko‘rib chiqiladi.

Kalit so‘zlar: inson kapitali, iqtisodiy o‘sish, ta’lim, mehnat unumdorligi, investitsiya, innovatsiya, bandlik, iqtisodiy rivojlanish.

Аннотация — Русский язык

Аннотация. В статье анализируется влияние человеческого капитала на экономический рост, его роль в повышении конкурентоспособности национальной экономики, а также взаимосвязь с образованием, профессиональными навыками, здравоохранением и инновационным потенциалом. В условиях современной экономики человеческий капитал рассматривается как один из ключевых факторов долгосрочного экономического развития страны. Обосновывается, что увеличение инвестиций в человеческий капитал способствует повышению производительности труда, созданию новых рабочих мест, развитию инноваций и росту доходов населения. Также рассматриваются приоритетные направления развития человеческого капитала в Узбекистане.

Ключевые слова: человеческий капитал, экономический рост, образование, производительность труда, инвестиции, инновации, занятость, экономическое развитие.

Abstract — English

Abstract. This article examines the impact of human capital on economic growth and its role in improving the competitiveness of the national economy. Particular attention is paid to the relationship between human capital, education, professional skills, healthcare, labor productivity, and innovation capacity. In the modern economy, human capital is considered one of the key factors supporting sustainable and long-term economic development. The study emphasizes that increasing investment in human capital can contribute to higher labor productivity, employment creation, technological development, innovation, and growth in household incomes. The article also considers the main priorities for developing human capital in Uzbekistan and highlights the importance of improving the quality of education, professional training, and opportunities for lifelong learning.

Keywords: human capital, economic growth, education, labor productivity, investment, innovation, employment, economic development.

1. Introduction

Human capital has become one of the most important factors of economic development in the modern global economy. Traditional factors of production, including physical capital, natural resources, and labor, remain important; however, their economic effectiveness increasingly depends on the knowledge, skills, creativity, and professional abilities of individuals.

The development of human capital directly affects labor productivity, innovation, competitiveness, employment, and income levels. Countries that invest systematically in education, healthcare, professional development, and research are generally better positioned to adapt to technological and structural changes in the global economy.

For developing economies, including Uzbekistan, strengthening human capital is particularly important. The transformation toward a knowledge-based and digital economy requires a workforce capable of applying modern technologies, generating innovative solutions, and responding effectively to changing market conditions.

2. Theoretical Foundations of Human Capital

The concept of human capital is based on the idea that knowledge, education, skills, experience, and health represent productive assets that generate economic value. Investment in these areas increases the productive capacity of individuals and, consequently, contributes to the development of the entire economy.

Education is one of the most important components of human capital. A high-quality education system provides individuals with the knowledge and competencies necessary to participate effectively in economic activities. Professional training and lifelong learning are also becoming increasingly important because technological changes continuously transform labor-market requirements.

Healthcare is another essential component of human capital. A healthy workforce is generally more productive, has fewer interruptions in employment, and is better able to contribute to economic activity.

3. Human Capital and Economic Growth

The relationship between human capital and economic growth can be observed through several major mechanisms. First, higher levels of education and professional skills increase labor productivity. Skilled employees can use technologies more efficiently, solve complex problems, and introduce improvements into production processes.

Second, human capital promotes innovation. Researchers, engineers, entrepreneurs, and highly qualified specialists contribute to the development and implementation of new technologies, products, and business models.

Third, human capital supports structural transformation. As economies move from resource-intensive activities toward manufacturing and knowledge-intensive services, the demand for highly qualified workers increases.

Therefore, investment in human capital should not be viewed only as social expenditure. It is also a strategic economic investment that can generate long-term returns through productivity growth, higher employment, innovation, and increased competitiveness.

4. Human Capital Development in Uzbekistan

For Uzbekistan, the development of human capital is becoming increasingly important in the context of economic modernization and digital transformation. The country has a large and relatively young population, which creates significant potential for economic development if appropriate investments are made in education, professional skills, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

The development of digital competencies is particularly important. Modern enterprises increasingly require employees who can work with digital platforms, data, information technologies, and automated systems. Therefore, educational institutions and professional training centers need to adapt their programs to the changing requirements of the labor market.

Another important direction is the development of entrepreneurship. Supporting entrepreneurial skills among young people can contribute to the creation of new businesses, employment opportunities, and innovative products.

5. Recommendations

1. Improving the quality and accessibility of education.
2. Expanding professional and technical training programs.
3. Developing digital and technological competencies.
4. Increasing investment in scientific research and innovation.
5. Strengthening cooperation between universities and businesses.
6. Promoting lifelong learning and professional retraining.
7. Supporting youth entrepreneurship and innovative startups.
8. Improving healthcare and creating favorable conditions for a productive workforce.

6. Conclusion

Human capital is one of the fundamental determinants of sustainable economic growth. Education, professional skills, health, experience, and innovation capacity directly influence labor productivity and the competitiveness of national economies.

For Uzbekistan, investment in human capital can become an important source of long-term economic development. Improving education, expanding professional training, developing digital skills, supporting innovation, and strengthening cooperation between educational institutions and businesses can increase the country’s economic potential.

Consequently, human capital development should be considered not only as a social policy priority but also as a strategic component of national economic policy. Effective investment in people can create the conditions for higher productivity, innovation, employment, income growth, and sustainable economic development.

References

1. Becker, G. S. (1993). Human Capital: A Theoretical and Empirical Analysis, with Special Reference to Education. University of Chicago Press.
2. Schultz, T. W. (1961). Investment in Human Capital. The American Economic Review, 51(1), 1–17.
3. Mincer, J. (1974). Schooling, Experience, and Earnings. Columbia University Press.
4. Lucas, R. E. (1988). On the Mechanics of Economic Development. Journal of Monetary Economics, 22(1), 3–42.
5. Romer, P. M. (1990). Endogenous Technological Change. Journal of Political Economy, 98(5), S71–S102.
6. World Bank. (2019). World Development Report 2019: The Changing Nature of Work. World Bank.
7. OECD. (2019). OECD Skills Strategy 2019: Skills to Shape a Better Future. OECD Publishing.