alt Hacker NewsI suspect you've never actually tried that.
A torch isn't just a bundle of sticks that provides light. It needs to be soaked in liquid fuel to work - like kerosene or wax - and it's a messy, smoky thing even then. It's completely unsuitable for use indoors, and it certainly isn't a cheaper alternative to candles.
Or perhaps you haven't. Many common resources are perfectly viable for making torches from including resin from a variety of common tree and plant types. If you want to get fancy you can even make your own pitch. It was the reason I added 'lush'. And why in the world would you want to be indoors? It'd be vastly more pleasant at e.g. your gazebo or wherever else, of course subject to climatic/weather extremes.
The concept of spending vast amounts of time indoors for both recreation and work is an extremely new thing. Not only post-electric but largely post-internet.