Many people have contended that Jesus is using parabolic teaching when he is telling about the rich man and Lazarus due to the description of hades.  They further contend that not only is it a parable but also that it could not be reality.  If we study the Bible's portrayal of the hadian realm in other places, then when can actually see that the picture of it in Luke 16 does not conflict with any others in the New Testament.  I am firmly convinced that Jesus is not using a parable to illustrate a point but rather is showing by actual example the faults of those who were listening on that occasion.  Secondary to his teaching to them are the lessons which can be gleaned from the account today:  humility, patience, comfort, worldlessness, etc.  Let me add this though, if it is a parable then that's fine because parables reveal spiritual truths through possible scenarios (as opposed to fables or fairy tales in which there is a moral embedded in a fantastic or surreal setting).  With that in mind we can still see the course for the righteous and wicked directly after this life represented in Luke 16.
    With the little space remaining look at a few things we can glean from this account understanding that these all occur in like form elsewhere in the pages of the Bible.  First, selfishness and worldliness have eternal consequences.  Second, the soul does not die.  Third, a place of torment awaits the wicked.  Fourth, there is no escape for the wicked dead and no avenue to return to warn family.  Fifth, blessed are those who struggle in this life and yet are faithful (Matthew 5).  What great lessons can be gleaned from the account of the rich man and Lazarus.