Above Ground is a profound collection of poetry by Clint Smith that delves into the complex emotional landscape of fatherhood. As a new parent, Smith reflects on the monumental shift within himself, illuminating throughout his work how personal legacies and societal frameworks shape our experiences. The collection captures the sheer amazement of seeing the world for the first time through a child's eyes, while simultaneously grappling with the responsibilities and challenges of nurturing life under the shadow of persistent social and political upheaval. Above Ground is an intimate exploration of joy and grief residing in one's heart, conveying the beauty of holding these disparate emotions together. Smith takes us on a moving journey through his children's formative years, offering a mirror to the world they are inheriting, inviting us to witness our shared and evolving existence.