The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner Lyrics

Lyric discussion by Metallian 

Cover art for The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner lyrics by Iron Maiden

I think it compares the marathon with life. In life, we sometimes have to run on and on, not turn back and never stop, no matter how hard it seems. And if you want to reach a certain aim, you will have to be strong. That's what the song means to me.