What is a flame -- how would you describe it to an 11 year old?

[jonburs]

http://flamechallenge.org/

[okamiueru]

I'd really like to hear Richard Feynman's answer. I'm sure if an 11 year old had asked the question, instead of a journalist, it would be the perfect answer. (I'm referring to an interview series with him: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1pIYI5JQLE)

Makes me sad to think I will never meet this man, nor ever be as awesome.