A prophetic warning is directed at those who spend their entire waking lives, from early morning until the late hours of the night, pursuing physical pleasures and intoxication. Their daily routine is completely inverted, replacing spiritual growth and the service of God with a singular focus on alcohol.
The primary approach among commentators is that waking up early is properly meant for positive pursuits, such as studying and attending morning prayers at the Temple. However, these individuals rise from their sleep with a completely different objective: hunting down aged, strong wine. While such drinks are typically reserved for the evening before sleep, they reverse the natural order, seeking alcohol the moment the day begins [מלבי״ם, אברבנאל]. They become obsessed, constantly searching for the finest wine available [רד״ק].
As the day ends, their destructive behavior continues. They intentionally delay their normal sleep, choosing instead to sit for long hours into the dark night [רש״י, אבן עזרא, מצודת ציון, מלבי״ם]. Rather than using the evening to reflect on the works of God and engage in evening prayers, they remain for hours at their drinking gatherings [מלבי״ם, אברבנאל].
The heavy drinking ultimately sets them on fire. While this refers to the physical burning sensation of the alcohol [רש״י, אבן עזרא], it more deeply signifies the ignition of their urges, driving them to act wildly and satisfy their every craving [מצודת דוד, רד״ק]. This intense state of intoxication serves as a cover for committing further shameful acts and fulfilling physical passions hidden by the darkness [שד״ל].
This complete surrender to food, drink, and entertainment directly replaces the contemplation of God's actions and the fulfillment of His commandments, such as the morning and evening prayers. Because they spend their lives chasing alcohol rather than seeking knowledge and wisdom, their ultimate punishment fits their actions perfectly. They are condemned to an exile marked by a complete lack of understanding, along with severe physical hunger and thirst [אברבנאל].