The best explanation can be found on the Salem Wiki:
http://salemwiki.info/index.php/Category:Light_SourcesYou need the Whittling Skill to have the option of making sharpened sticks for torches Until then, you will have to either maintain a fire in a fireplace (you can add branches to fireplaces and stoves to keep the fire burning) or start new fires using a Tinder Drill. You will need tinder to construct a torch. Any combination of Autumn Grass, Wood Choppings or Maple Leaves are your options
Tinder Drills can often fail. Keep an eye on your humors before and after lighting a fire. You may need to eat between attempts. I recommend that you have full Phlegm=Black bar (5+) and Blood=red bar(5+). Each attempt will consume Phlegm and failures consume 25% of your blood.
http://salemwiki.info/index.php/Tinder_DrillI highly recommend that you keep the wiki handy. It is an invaluable resource, along with forum search, to learning about the mechanics and resources of Salem.
Regarding the "glaring fire" you mentioned, it sounds like you are attempting to create an inspirational called "Captivating Flame." This is not a light/fire source.
Happy Salem