The underlying idea of the poem 'Fire and Ice' by Robert Frost is the destructive nature of human emotions and desires. The poem is a contemplation on how the world will end - whether by fire or ice. The two elements, fire and ice, are used as metaphors for two different kinds of human emotions - desire and hatred.

Metaphors in the poem
- Fire represents desire, passion, and greed. It is a metaphor for the intense emotions that humans feel, especially those that lead to destruction.
- Ice represents hatred, apathy, and indifference. It is a metaphor for the cold emotions that humans feel, especially those that lead to isolation and disconnection.

Meaning of the poem
- The poem suggests that both desire and hatred have the potential to destroy the world.
- The speaker seems to favor the idea that the world will end in ice, as it suggests a slow, gradual decay rather than a sudden, explosive destruction.
- However, the poem is also a warning to humans to be careful of their emotions and desires, as they have the power to destroy not just themselves but also the world around them.

Conclusion
In conclusion, 'Fire and Ice' is a thought-provoking poem that explores the destructive nature of human emotions and desires. The poem serves as a reminder to humans to be mindful of their actions and to strive for balance in their lives.

The message that the poet is trying to give is that nothing in this world is eternal.The poet first concludes that the world must end in fire because of his personal experience with desire and passion which are the emotion of fire.

But at the same time,ice or hatred can also bring total destruction of this world.We should thus, not forget this supreme reality and keep ourselves above all selfish matters.