This poem is about making your life count. When old age comes and death is at your door what will you look back on? What did you do that made it all worth while? How will you be remembered? Will your candle quietly burn out unnoticed, or will you rage into death knowing that you did everything you set out to do and you are proud of what you accomplished ready for what death brings you. It's a challenge to take the risks that make your life meaningful. Wonderful poem! Does that help?