Playing With Matches

Thailand is an intoxicating mix of the unexpected. This photo is a fiery representation of that. Shown is the traditional ritual of baton twirling. (Dainty female twirlers need not apply.) At night, muscular Thai men light fire to heavy batons and swirl them around their heads, much to the delight of crowds drawn by the dazzling flames and the aromatic concoction of sweat and kerosene. I probably took 200 images of fire shows across Thailand (some involving pre-pubescent men proving their manhood). However on the 201st shot, I finally captured the image I wanted. Speaking of unexpected, notice that I got my shot during a Christmas celebration with an American-style, rock-n-roll band in the background.