In "The Glass Castle," Jeannette Walls reflects on her complex relationship with fire, contemplating whether events involving fire are interconnected. She questions whether the fire that injured her during a childhood cooking accident might be linked to other fires in her life, including those in her family home and a hotel. This introspection reveals a deeper understanding of her existence, where fire symbolizes both danger and unpredictability.

Walls acknowledges the omnipresence of fire in her life, describing it as a constant threat that keeps her alert. This realization emphasizes the fragility of her world, where disaster could strike at any moment, shaping her perspective on life and survival. The metaphor of fire illustrates the chaos and turmoil present in her upbringing, highlighting themes of resilience and awareness in a tumultuous environment.