The phrase "carrying a torch" is a colloquial expression that conveys a metaphorical meaning. It is often used in informal contexts, particularly in conversations or literature, to describe someone's enduring and unrequited love or affection for another person. The term originates from the image of a person carrying a flame or torch, symbolizing their lingering feelings for someone who does not reciprocate those emotions.
To "carry a torch" implies an individual's continued devotion, longing, or infatuation for someone, despite the absence of a mutual romantic connection. This deep emotional attachment suggests that the person who carries the torch still nurtures hopes and remains emotionally invested in a relationship that might not be reciprocated. It can also denote an individual's unwillingness to let go of a past love or move on emotionally.
Furthermore, "carrying a torch" may evoke a sense of bittersweet sentimentality, as the person may experience a mix of pain, yearning, and nostalgia. It implies that the torchbearer is holding onto memories, not willing to let the flame of their affection die while preserving the idealized image of the person who does not share the same romantic feelings.
Overall, "carrying a torch" signifies the enduring, unrequited love or attachment one person has towards another, even if their feelings are not reciprocated, enforcing a sense of longing, hope, and emotional investment.
