a well-defined object of lurid coloration

“Switters turned from the misty void and was instantly confronted with its opposite: namely, a well-defined object of lurid coloration. It was the pumpkin, only its orangeness had become so intense it seemed to be undergoing spontaneous combustion right there on the library table. Switters didn’t know whether to reach for a fire extinguisher or fall down and worship. The thing was blazing—and spinning, as well. At least, it appeared to be, for minute or two. He blinked and rubbed his eyes. Then he remembered.
    He had forgotten about ingesting the XTC. It was starting to come on, and come on strong.”

—Tom Robbins, Fierce Invalids Home From Hot Climates, 2000.