In the Fired Furnace of Cali

IN THE FIRED FURNACE OF CALI (APROPOS THE ANNUAL RUNNING OF FIRE AND MUD) Roaring radiant raging waves of heat, the charging beast, glowing red hot with anger, devours all within its path; left over sable statutes send streams of spiraling smoke sketching grayish designs upon the hazy blue canvas above. Weary eyes reflect the yellow-orange-red glow that only the rage of a Dante-like hell could bring. The wretched earth once again lay hopelessly on the remnant of her charred bed: awaiting her steaming tears to wash away the ashes. In the meanwhile mourners collect scorched memories: telltale recollections of sacrifices nature left upon her Vulcan altar.