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English
carry a torch may derive from the Greek wedding torch tradition
From the metaphor of a burning flame, to keep a fire burning. The association of a torch with love may date to the Greek and Roman tradition of a
wedding torch,[1] lit in the bride’s hearth on her wedding night, then used to light the hearth in her new home. Such a torch is associated with the Greek god of marriage Hymenaios.
1941, “Jim”, Nelson Shawn (lyrics), James Caesar Petrillo and Edward Ross (music):
Someday, I know that Jim will up and leave me / But even if he does you can believe me / I'll go on carryin' the torch for Jim / I'll go on lovin' my Jim
1955 June 6, “Books: Mixed Fiction (review of The Twelve Pictures by Edith Simon)”, in Time, archived from the original on 2013-03-15:
Brunhilde, a kind of earth-mother goddess, carries a torch for her lost love.
2006 April 20, Jeannette Walls, “Are Simpson and Lachey still in love?”, in msnbc.com, archived from the original on 2006-04-23:
Lachey, for his part, seems to still carry a torch for his estranged wife.
Usage notes
Often used to characterize a situation in which a romantic relationship has ended, but where one partner still loves the other.
Considered by some to be dated,[2] but still in wide usage.
