"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"

This quote by Christopher Hitchens reflects on the unexpected death of his dad due to cancer of the esophagus. He is reviewing the truth that he is now a "finalist" in life, as he is now much closer to death than his father was at the same age. He is most likely assessing his own death and the reality that life is brief and unforeseeable. He is also likely reviewing the fact that he is now the very same age as his father was when he died, which he is now closer to the end of his own life than he was previously. This quote is a reminder to cherish life and maximize the time we have, as it can be eliminated from us in an instant.