My candle burns at both ends

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!

Edna St. Vincent Millay ("First Fig", A Few Figs From Thistles, 1920)

Bob used to recite this to me in defense of the difficult lifestyle my uncles insisted on pursuing.
And so I respect them for it for I have spent many hours dancing by the light.
Thank you.