Hi, Stephen. This is really interesting. I'm currently working on the outline for a book, probably a novella, in which humanity's relationship with fire, and its constructive and destructive facets, is the central theme.

It will be more mythological/philosophical than historical in tone, but I would like to do some research about fire's role as humanity's first 'technology' with the capacity to escape our control and slip its harness.

Could you recommend any particular book, by yourself or any other author, that would cover that angle, the origins of humanity's 'taming' of fire, and its influence in the early and later development of society?

I would be most grateful for any suggestions.

Thanks in advance.