Even though I write about the human race, the further away from them, the better I feel. Two miles is great; two thousand miles is beautiful.

The quote "Even though I write about the human race, the further away from them, the better I feel. Two miles is great; two thousand miles is beautiful" by Charles Bukowski offers a glimpse into the author's complex relationship with humanity. Bukowski, known for his gritty, raw, and often cynical portrayal of life, expresses a paradox in this quote. He writes about the human race, reflecting on its flaws, struggles, and imperfections, yet he finds a sense of peace and freedom the farther he distances himself from it. This suggests a disillusionment with society, its norms, and the chaotic nature of human existence.

The idea of being further away from humanity can be seen as a form of escapism or a desire for solitude. Bukowski often depicted the harsh realities of life, and in this quote, he acknowledges how difficult it can be to engage deeply with humanity's struggles. The more distance he has, the more at ease he feels, implying that he finds solace in isolation or perhaps a sense of clarity when he's removed from the noise of society. The specific mention of "two miles" versus "two thousand miles" emphasizes how much more comfortable he becomes the farther removed he is from human interaction.

Bukowski’s comment on the human race and his preference for distance could also reflect his skepticism of social structures and conventions. As someone often critical of mainstream culture, he may be suggesting that direct proximity to people often breeds discomfort or frustration. For him, solitude seems to be a sanctuary where he can freely reflect and express himself, without the constraints of societal expectations or interpersonal conflict.

Ultimately, the quote captures Bukowski's sense of alienation and disconnection from the world he observes and writes about. It highlights his inner conflict between being a part of society and the need to escape it for mental and emotional clarity. By emphasizing how much he values distance, Bukowski portrays his deep ambivalence toward human society and his need for personal space to make sense of the world.