Tinderbox – Reviewed
To lose oneself in the wintering
of tiny little utopias
offered up and so easily missed
in the superstrata
of terrestrial living.
An oblong of sun
in the chill of journey,
brief yet needed.
The world, on fire.
The wind blew it
more raging still.
Always the wind and the devil
that changes everything
isn’t it?
…
You may find the rest of the poem here.
Tinderbox
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Analysis
“Tinderbox” weaves together themes of impermanence, transformation, and resilience, using dreamlike imagery to reflect the harsh realities of wildfires. The poem balances introspection and vivid detail, capturing both the personal and collective experience of navigating a world shaped by destruction. It explores the fragility of routines and the necessity of adaptation, offering a layered meditation on how we find meaning amidst chaos.
The poem begins with a sense of quiet reflection, describing “tiny little utopias” and fleeting comforts that are easily overlooked. These moments of solace, like “an oblong of sun in the chill of journey,” provide brief relief but are soon overshadowed by the destructive force of fire. The phrase “The world, on fire” marks an abrupt shift, pulling the reader from abstraction into a stark reality. This jarring transition mirrors the disorientation caused by real-life wildfires, where everyday life is suddenly upended.
The wind, described as fueling the flames, becomes a symbol of uncontrollable forces that drive destruction. The line “Always the wind and the devil that changes everything” ties natural phenomena to existential struggle, suggesting that such events are both inevitable and transformative. The fire is depicted as both a physical and mythical force, turning familiar landscapes into something alien, almost like stepping into a dream—or a nightmare.
Imagery grounds the poem in the realities of wildfires while maintaining its reflective tone. The “deserted street” and “muffled alto of a passing siren” evoke the eerie stillness that follows evacuation and devastation. The act of “sewing to appease the gods” feels symbolic, reflecting the human need to impose order or meaning in the face of chaos. This small, restless action conveys a sense of resilience, even when larger events seem beyond control.
The poem’s conclusion, with the image of the “druid heart” that “stretches, accommodates, remakes itself,” ties the dreamlike and real together. The druid imagery suggests an ancient connection to nature’s cycles, emphasizing humanity’s capacity for endurance and renewal. This transformation is both physical and spiritual, a reminder that adaptation is necessary for survival.
“Tinderbox” captures the tension between fleeting beauty and overwhelming destruction, blending surreal and tangible elements to reflect the emotional weight of wildfires. The poem’s structure, with its irregular rhythm and shifting tones, mirrors the unpredictable nature of fire and its impact. By balancing introspection with vivid imagery, it invites readers to consider their own ability to navigate change and find meaning in the face of loss. The result is a poignant exploration of both the fragility and resilience of life.
Photo by Joanne Francis on Unsplash
