Abstract
<jats:p>This article provides a comprehensive study of the compositional structure and artistic-poetic nature of lap — one of the unique comic genres of Karakalpak folklore. The research defines the position of the lap genre within the folkloric system, its genre-specific characteristics based on hyperbole, and its performative status. In the course of the study, the functions of the compositional layers of lap — introduction, exposition, climax, and resolution — are analyzed, along with their role in creating a unified artistic structure. The author emphasizes the decisive role of the region's natural and landscape features in shaping the plots of lap. Furthermore, the linguo-poetic nature and chronotopic features of specific images in lap (the golden carp, the giant catfish, and the seven-fathom rice) are revealed. The results of the article prove that lap is not merely a humorous tale, but is closely linked to the people's traditional worldview, improvisational skill, and socio-aesthetic ideals. The work is scientifically grounded by comparing the functions of the compositional formants of the lap genre in both universal and local contexts.</jats:p>