In This Short Life

In This Short Life - meaning Summary

Ephemeral Scope of Control

The poem reflects on human life’s brevity and the narrow range of agency available to us. In a few lines it compresses time and choice, suggesting that life is fleeting and that much — sometimes only a little — falls within our control. The speaker prompts readers to recognize limits without despair, implying a measured focus on what can be acted upon during the short time allotted.