In "The Glass Castle," Jeannette Walls reflects on her complex relationship with fire, revealing it as both a source of life and destruction. The act of "torturing the fire" suggests a struggle between control and chaos, highlighting how fire symbolizes her turbulent upbringing and the unpredictable nature of her family life. This duality mirrors her experiences, filled with both warmth and danger.

The imagery of giving life and snuffing it out encapsulates the fleeting moments of joy and stability she encountered amidst hardship. Walls’ relationship with fire serves as a metaphor for her efforts to navigate a challenging childhood, illustrating the intricate balance between creation and devastation that defined her youth.