When it is there it is here when it is here it is gone. What is it?

This clever word puzzle plays on the very structure of language, specifically the presence and absence of a particular letter within the words of the riddle itself. The key lies in examining the words "there" and "here." When we look at the word "there," we clearly find the letter 't' within it. This fulfills the first part of the statement: "When it is there it is here."

Conversely, when we shift our attention to the word "here," the letter 't' is conspicuously absent. This satisfies the second part of the riddle: "when it is here it is gone." The elegance of this solution comes from its simplicity, relying on a direct observation of the letters that compose common English words. It's a testament to how language, even down to its individual components, can be a source of intriguing and educational challenges.

Riddles like this highlight the fun and often surprising ways we can manipulate and understand the building blocks of our vocabulary. The letter 't' itself is one of the most frequently used consonants in the English language, appearing in countless words and playing a vital role in communication. Its commonality makes it an ideal candidate for such a linguistic trick, as its presence or absence can dramatically alter a word's meaning and, in this case, unlock the mystery of a riddle.