The Verdict

Scent Profile: Smoky, spicy, and woody with dark berry undertones.
Seasonality: Perfect for fall and winter evenings.
Sillage: Moderate, projecting up to 6 feet.
Longevity: 8+ hours.

Introduction

Imaginary Authors, a niche fragrance house, is celebrated for its creative and narrative-driven scents. A City On Fire Extrait De Parfum is a prime example of the brand’s ability to translate bold concepts into olfactory art. Inspired by the chaos and intensity of a burning city, this fragrance is an unapologetically daring composition that captures the essence of fire and its aftermath. It’s a scent that challenges convention, making it a standout choice for those who seek something unconventional and evocative.

Fragrance Notes

Top Notes: Cardamom, Dark Berries
Middle Notes: Cade Oil, Spikenard, Clearwood
Base Notes: Labdanum, Burnt Match

Fragrance Profile

A City On Fire opens with a spicy burst of cardamom, complemented by the dark, slightly sweet dark berries. This initial combination creates a rich, almost mysterious opening. As the fragrance develops, the heart notes of cade oil, spikenard, and clearwood take over, introducing a smoky, slightly medicinal aroma. The cade oil adds a charred, woody depth, while the spikenard brings an earthy, herbal quality. The clearwood enhances the overall woodiness, adding a modern edge. In the dry down, the base notes of labdanum and burnt match emerge, delivering a resinous warmth and a striking, smoky finish that lingers on the skin. The burnt match note is particularly unique, evoking the scent of a just-extinguished flame, which ties the entire composition together.

Occasion

This is not a fragrance for the faint of heart. A City On Fire is best suited for evening wear or special occasions where making a bold statement is the goal. It’s ideal for fall and winter events, intimate gatherings, or nighttime outings. The smoky, intense nature of the scent makes it less appropriate for casual or professional settings, but it’s perfect for those moments when you want to leave a lasting impression.

Season

A City On Fire is tailor-made for fall and winter. The smoky, spicy, and woody elements resonate beautifully in the cooler air, making it a comforting choice for chilly evenings. The warmth of the fragrance prevents it from feeling too heavy, but it would likely overwhelm in the heat of summer. This is a scent that thrives in colder climates, where its smokiness can be fully appreciated.

Performance

The performance of A City On Fire is stellar. The fragrance has a strong initial projection that softens into a more intimate aura as it settles. It maintains its complexity throughout the wear, evolving from spicy and smoky to warm and resinous. The balance between the notes is masterfully executed, ensuring that no single element dominates for too long. This makes the fragrance feel dynamic and engaging from the first spray to the final hours.

Longevity

 8+ hours. 

Sillage

Moderate, projecting up to 6 feet.

Conclusion

Imaginary Authors: A City On Fire Extrait De Parfum is a bold, smoky, and unconventional fragrance that lives up to its name. It’s a scent that tells a story, offering a multi-faceted experience that evolves overtime. While it may not be for everyone, those who appreciate daring, smoky, and spicy fragrances will find it irresistible. Its excellent longevity and moderate sillage make it a practical choice for those who want a fragrance that lasts. For anyone looking to add a unique, narrative-driven scent to their collection, A City On Fire is a flame worth igniting.