I think it's formidable work of great depth.
The image is finely sustained throughout, and the close is brilliant.
Wish I'd thought of the dual meaning of "race" as applied in the close. ("You will, David, you will".)
Like the author, I had fooled myself into thinking there are some things we don't do any more. Life's full of shocks, and surprises.
Who wrote it?
Regards,
David
http://www.davidgwilymanthony.co.uk/