My candle burns at both ends; It will not last the night;But ah, my foes, and oh, my friends--It gives a lovely light!

Summary

In this quote, the speaker metaphorically describes themselves as a burning candle. By saying, "My candle burns at both ends," they are expressing their intense and reckless lifestyle, suggesting that they are living life to the fullest. The line, "It will not last the night," conveys the idea that this way of living is unsustainable and they are aware that it may lead to an early demise. However, despite this knowledge, the speaker acknowledges that their lifestyle, despite its potential consequences, brings joy to both their adversaries and companions, symbolized by the phrase "It gives a lovely light!"

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