Alive Beside You - By Joe Lyimo

Written By: Joe Lyimo

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Introducing "Alive Beside You," a poignant poem by Joe Lyimo, featured in the Poetry category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This evocative work offers an intimate exploration of human connection and presence. With a dedication to a partner and best friend, the poem captures the essence of shared moments and the profound impact of companionship. Joe's heartfelt verses invite readers to reflect on the simple yet significant experiences that define our lives.

About the Work

"Alive Beside You" is imbued with themes of connection and the power of shared experiences. The poem's imagery is vivid, painting scenes of everyday life filled with warmth and presence. Its tone is deeply personal and reflective, highlighting the importance of being seen and known by another. Through lyrical expressions, Joe Lyimo beautifully articulates how love can transform ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

Alive Beside You

Original Submission by Joe Lyimo

Today I wake and the day is not

Just a day

It is a long street where I walk

Beside you

Hands maybe touching, maybe not

But always that nearness, that

Electricity of being seen

The tram rails sing, children

Shout, an old song heard from

A cafe radio

And still, the brightest sound is

Your quiet voice saying my name

I belong to this world more

When I am with you

The lights of the shops, the rush

Of people

The small dog pulling its owner

Across the road

All of it feels like a movie where

I finally got the right role.

Once I tried to fold myself

Smaller to fit in corners

Now, you laugh and my shoulders

Rise, my back straightens

And I learn that my body is not an

Apology,

But a home still in the making

We stand in line for food, talk

About nothing and everything

Weather, work, how tired we are

How soft the sky looks tonight

And, this, too, is love

The ordinary hours stretched

Wide

So that both our names can

Breathe inside them

If the world is a book, then I

Want this page

Us, side by side

Hungry and human and hopeful

Alive beside you in this world

Dedicated to my partner/bestfriend—Oke

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a prestigious event celebrating artistic expression. It brings together writers from around the world, offering a platform for diverse voices and stories. This competition is an opportunity for participants to share their unique perspectives and connect with a global audience through the power of words.

We extend our gratitude to Joe Lyimo for sharing "Alive Beside You" with us. Your thoughtful exploration of presence and connection has enriched the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Thank you for inviting us into the world of your poetry and for highlighting the beauty within everyday experiences.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.