stir the embers
Poke dying fire
To stir the embers is to revive something that has nearly died down—feelings, memories, conflicts, or passions that still hold latent heat.
The phrase comes from poking at a fire's remaining coals to coax flames back to life: Their conversation stirred the embers of an old rivalry.
Often implies the revival may be unwise or dangerous.
- awakenRouse from slumber
- rekindleRenew something dormant
- igniteStart burning something
- reminisceRecall past experiences fondly
- smolderBurn without flame
flame · recollect · ash · muse · provoke · glow · hearth · keep the home fires burning · agitate · instigate · spark · inspire · enliven · remember · blaze · reflect · fuel · recall
metaphorical revival vs. suppression
stir the emberslet sleeping dogs lie
Avoid rekindling dormant issues
move on · pour cold water on · leave well enough alone · bury the hatchet · turn the page