I like the metaphor here, and several individual words or phrases (especially "cross-timbers cave to embers"). But several other phrases seem uninspired or unclear, and I agree with some others that there's some padding here. I wish there had been some fresher details in the imagery. Great idea, not so great execution, IMHO.

Best,
Jean

I think I can understand the unusual terms in L2,3,
but do find the end of L3 clunky, and really don't like L8--the
repetition of flame just seemed uninspired. The sestet is
very fine.

BTW, I have a strong hunch about who the author might be.

matched
 

I remember and love this one.