The poems in The Past Is a Dangerous Driver is inspired by Neal Mason's fascination with the past, not only in the way it exists as general history but also as it is formed by one's own personal recollection. Through his poems, Neil links the past to the present, in a way that puts events in a new light and exposes discovery of hidden complexities. History is no longer seen as being made up of facts and artefacts but instead it is presented as the manifestation of the human spirit. The poems also conjure up an eclectic view of Britain, its values, history and even future. The title of collection is a hint that the past does affect the present, not always for the best, but its influence needs to be acknowledged.