Unburned Flames: Understanding the Meanings of 'Carrying a Torch' and 'Holding a Candle'
Language is rich with expressions that paint vivid pictures of human relationships. Two such expressions that often evoke a sense of unfulfilled desire or admiration are 'carrying a torch' and 'holding a candle'. These phrases are synonymous with the idea of harboring an unreturned affection, much like a flame that continues to burn long after its purpose has been served.
The expression 'carry a torch' is an idiom that dates back to a time when actual torches were used for light. In modern usage, it metaphorically refers to a person who is still holding the flame of love for another, even when the love is not reciprocated. This term is often used in situations where one feels strongly about another individual but has not been returned to. For example, 'Jim and Cathy broke up 6 months ago, but he won’t date anyone else because he’s still carrying a torch for her.' In this sense, it captures the ongoing nature of the unrequited love.
From Actual to Figurative
Another related expression is 'holding a candle.' This phrase is both a literal and figurative expression. Literally, it refers to holding someone's candle while they bend down to tie their left shoelace. However, figuratively, it is often used as a metaphor to imply that someone is significantly inferior to or in awe of another person. For instance, when someone says, 'She can’t hold a candle to you,' it means that the speaker holds the belief that the other person is far superior in some way.
The negative form, 'Can't hold a candle to,' is frequently utilized to express that one individual pales in comparison to another. For example, 'John can’t hold a candle to his younger sister in math - she’s simply much sharper.'
Feeling the Heat: Unrequited Love
Both 'carrying a torch' and 'holding a candle' often carry connotations of unrevealed feelings, much like a crush or unrequited love. These expressions can be used to describe a situation where a person has strong feelings for someone, often without having declared them. For example, 'She’s been holding a candle for him since they were at school together,' captures the sentiment of a long-standing and undisclosed affection.
These expressions are particularly useful in literature and informal conversation to convey the subtleties of unfulfilled romantic or friendly feelings. They add depth to the narrative by highlighting the complexity of human emotions and the power of unspoken desires.
Usage and Examples
Let’s further explore these expressions through some real-life examples:
Example 1: Carrying a Torch
Context: Two former colleagues, Alice and Bob, are both single and widowed. They have a lingering friendship and interest in each other, but neither has expressed their feelings.
Usage: 'Alice is still carrying a torch for Bob. Even though they have been apart for a year, she can’t help but notice him in the office.'
Example 2: Holding a Candle
Context: In a workplace environment, an employee, Sarah, excels in performance compared to a new colleague, Tom.
Usage: 'Sarah is a cut above the rest, and Tom can’t hold a candle to her in terms of work ethic and efficiency.'
Example 3: Combined Usage
Context: Two lifelong friends, Mark and Lisa, have drifted apart in recent years. Despite this, Mark still harbors feelings for Lisa.
Usage: 'Mark’s been holding a candle for Lisa for years. Every time she visits, he’s reminded of her and his feelings for her remain strong.'
Conclusion
From the literal act of holding a candle to the figurative expressions of 'carrying a torch' and 'holding a candle,' these idioms provide a nuanced way to express emotions and feelings. By understanding and using these expressions, one can enrich their language and better articulate complex and often unspoken emotions. Whether you are writing a novel, having a conversation, or crafting a business speech, these expressions add depth and context to your words.