In literature, the term kindling is often used both in its literal sense—to describe small, easily ignited fuel that starts a fire—and in a metaphorical one, representing the initial spark of emotion, thought, or conflict. Authors invoke its literal use to ground scenes of physical fires or ritualistic ceremonies, as when specific woods or settings are described as ideal for starting a blaze [1, 2, 3, 4]. At the same time, kindling frequently symbolizes the beginning of internal upheavals: a kindling anger that slowly grows into raging fury [5, 6, 7], or a kindling of passion and inspiration that gradually transforms a character’s inner life [8, 9, 10]. This dual usage underscores the inherent potential in small, seemingly insignificant elements to ignite much larger, transformative processes.