This month the Poetry Sisters challenge was to write a tricube. The tricube form is 3 syllables, 3 lines, 3 stanzas.
Molly Hogan sent me the list of prompts from the MoSt Poetry Center. The prompt I used was this:
“Write a poem of presence, in terms of being in a particular place and time, or of having a dynamic demeanor (such as in “stage presence”) or a feeling of an unseen spirit. Here’s an example by Arthur Sze, our new U. S. Poet Laureate:
Here by Arthur Sze – Poems | Academy of American Poets”
I borrowed the line, “Be here now.”
Every year as I begin to set intentions, I get the universal message of presence. I feel presence is essential to peace of mind, but it is difficult to find.
I have a new kayak. Taking the kayak out took some initiative and help from my husband hero. Jeff had the grandkids in the canoe. When I wanted to try to get the kayak out of the water by myself, my grandson Leo said, “Prove it.” That was all the challenge I needed to pull the 60 pound vessel onto the dock. I did it.
Here
after Arthur Sze
Be here now
Here frog croaks
Here wren calls
Be here now
Here stalk grows
Here tea steams
Be here now
Here oar strokes
Here strength comes
Margaret Simon
I want to thank Tabatha Yeatts who offered on Poetry Friday last week to do an art piece for our 2026 words. I took her up on the offer. I’m touched and amazed at how this speaks to my intention for the year as well as the tricube I wrote.
Reflections on the Teche 
Thanks for your calm voice of presence in your tricube poem Margaret, and the reaffirming art and words from Tabatha. Also have fun in your new kayak and congrats on pulling it out! The events in MPLS have weighed heavy on my mind, my sister also lives in the area.
Michelle, I have been crying a lot lately. It’s all so devastating and tragic. I hope you can find solace in poetry and art.
Yes, thanks Margaret they are both wells of solace.
Absolutely beautiful…the frog croak, the wren call. I love it. I think of your poetry as poetry of presences. You bring attention to the right now. Tabatha’s art is literally and in all ways centering. Thank goodness for centering friends. They are also heroes. Congrats on kayak wrangling. That’s impressive!
“Be here now” is what my friend and late librarian Robin Smith embroidered on a pair of wool sleeves for me that I wear when I work in the cold. I cherish that phrase, the idea of the strength and the loveliness that await being present. Thank you so much for joining the tricube troop this month.
There is nothing like getting out in nature to remind us to be here now. And you are so right, filling up my vup outdoors brings strength. Have fun with your kayak.
Nice photo of you, Margaret! I can imagine you taking your grandson’s challenge 🙂 I was happy to “place you” in the center of your words. Did I already mention “Friends of Silence” to you? They have a newsletter that I think you would like. https://friendsofsilence.net/
An poem of empowerment. I love it! Occasionally we rent kayaks at a nearby marina, and being out on the water in them really does help one “be here now.” I know just the place I’m going to row to when the weather and the water warm up.
Oh, this is just a lovely incantation. I read it aloud as a comfort…
And, interestingly, we’re looking at Arthur Sze poems next month! You combined the prompts!
This is such a present poem, Margaret. I love the images and sounds and sometimes even read “hear” instead of “here” – in the best coolest way. When we are present, strength does come. Thank you for the reminder. Sounds like your grandson is on his way to being a hero too. Like you. xo for the week ahead. a.
Love the message of presence in your poem, Margaret. And thanks for inspiring me to write a tricube, too. Did you name your kayak “Chrysalis”? Perfect for someone who raises butterflies!
Yes, Chrysalis was my husband’s suggestion just for that reason. He has a green pirogue named Turtle. Thanks for reading.
I keep a page of “Tattoos I Don’t Have” in my sketchbook. I’ll add “Be Here Now” to the collection. I’ll tattoo it on my heart.
I love that Leo gave you the impetus to prove yourself to yourself (and to him). He will keep you young, no doubt about it!
I also love the way you used one of your trademark poetry moves (anaphora) with such perfection. Well played, friend!
I love the strength and determination of your poem and this post. You put me in the moment too!
And Tabatha’s art for you is lovely!
I love the tricube, Margaret! It speaks to my connection with nature and finding a sense of peace. I admire your talent. Thank you.
I love the tricube, Margaret! It speaks to my connection with nature and finding a sense of peace. I admire your talent. Thank you.
I love the power of your tricube, Margaret. It’s the perfect form to accompany your determination and accomplishment! Leo’s “Prove it” was definitely a well-timed nudge! Also, Tabatha’s art is just lovely!
Margaret, I really love the structure of this poem and the repetition.
Margaret, I really love the structure and repetition in this one!