My father had died, and very swiftly, too, of cancer of the esophagus. He was 79. I am 61. In whatever kind of a 'race' life may be, I have very abruptly become a finalist.

Summary

This quote reflects the realization of the narrator that the death of their father has made them feel closer to the end of their own life. The mention of cancer and their respective ages creates a sense of urgency and mortality. The narrator acknowledges that they have become a "finalist" in the race of life, symbolizing that they are now closer to the inevitable conclusion, prompting reflection on the brevity and preciousness of existence.

Topics