burns from within, burns without.
I like this line, it's cheeky. I read the other piece, and you are right to say that reading that would make oneself appreciate this more. There is a deep contrast in the endings; so much that reading this again gives it way stronger positive vibes.
I've used some variations on "within - - without" more than a number of times over the years. It's just too powerful, and speaks too much to me. I'm surprised I haven't seen others use it more often, honestly.
And yes, this piece is positive because of the change from the last one. It's really not intended to stand on its own. Some would say it's a failure of it as art, and I'd say that it is a success for it as a piece describing life.