So we begin a new series of conversations dedicated to the primal and innovative ways man has conjured fire—anywhere, from virtually anything.

Having spent what seems like half my life in the wilderness (in more ways than one) I have always had a love and appreciation for learning what it takes to make fire. The art and science of fire-starting has slowly become an analog for much in my life so I felt it deserved a place here in the home of shamans, lovers, and warrior poets.

Let the conversation spark your own imagination, kindle community with me, and bring me any fire-starting lore that you may come across.

Innovative ways to start a fire #1—FIRE from ICE …

It’s true, I’ve done it, and once you’ve got the knack it’s not hard. Ever burnt something (or someone) with a magnifying glass? If so, then you already understand the concept. With a knife, stick, or sharp rock, Form a chunk of clear ice into a rough sphere of 2″ or more. Continue to shape it with your hands until it’s round and smooth. Then, channel sunlight through it onto dry moss, paper, or dry grass and with a little wind … yes … FIRE.