The Last White Ruby: The Vanishing Polar Circles

A poetry collection inspired by Ronnie Smith's experiences living and working in the polar regions as an aviator and commander for the US Air Force resupplying US scientific research stations. Anything but routine, Smith brings the surreal landscapes and flying phenomena to the reader through his keen sensitivity to the human condition, ever ready to adapt to an environment fraught with danger, beauty, and the unusual.

The ubiquitous foe of the elements, absence of infrastructure, and wilderness combine to confront the aviator and seaman with sometimes uncompromising force. The poet captures this and more in his portrayal of the places where most of humanity will never see, nor be able to appreciate the pristine beauty abounding at the icecaps that we stand to lose to climate change.