There is no connection between being ninety-three years old and being ancient or timeless. The poems in this collection are contemporary-real, sincere, and thought-provoking. Strauss explores the many degrees of love-from young to old, from family to valued friends-in provocative and compassionate verse. Neither is love his only topic. He offers poetic viewpoints on poverty, disability, and war; he recalls traveling the long trail of parenthood from newly born child through to adulthood. The obstacles and joys in life that might be faced by age ninety-three bear examination in Firecracker: Poems at 93. Fire Cracker There are many things I'd like to be There are many lives I'd like to live Above all I'd like to feel free To live and love, to forgive A state of mind haunts my soul One unusual wish torments my mind To build my energy so it can explode I wish I were a firecracker of some kind I'd light the sky with flames of love I'd burn away the troubles of the world People could look down, around and above To know sunshine, clouds, see stars unfurl I'd arouse curiosity in children I'd teach them what controlled energy can do I'd teach them how music can enfold them I'd teach them to understand things old and new I'd like to be a firecracker, and make my mark in time With a loving companion as a backer, I'd explode with love in a life sublime Though you may not see love, I'll know As a firecracker, I could make it so.