I like being a foreigner. For me, to live in California is very pleasant - I'm more comfortable not feeling a part of everything, not feeling responsible for the government or the roads or the health system.

In this quote, Eric Idle, a member of the British comedy group Monty Python, shares his perspective on being a foreigner in California. He finds comfort in not being deeply embedded in the responsibilities and expectations that come with being a full citizen, such as being accountable for the government, roads, or the health system. Idle suggests that his status as a foreigner provides him with a sense of freedom and detachment from the societal pressures that often come with national identity.

Idle's comments reflect his enjoyment of living in a place where he doesn't feel the weight of civic responsibility. While many people feel a sense of duty to contribute to and shape the systems of government, infrastructure, and social services in their home countries, Idle expresses a kind of liberation in not having those obligations. This detachment allows him to live in a more carefree and relaxed manner, without the burden of constantly being responsible for societal issues.

The quote also touches on the concept of identity and the emotional distance that can come with being an outsider. For Idle, this detachment doesn’t imply alienation or loneliness but rather a more comfortable existence, where he can enjoy his life in California without feeling entangled in the complexities of governance and national concerns. It suggests that for some, not being deeply involved in the local system can be a source of peace and personal freedom.

In conclusion, Eric Idle’s quote highlights the freedom he feels as a foreigner living in California, detached from the obligations and responsibilities of full citizenship. His perspective invites reflection on how distance from societal systems can sometimes lead to a more relaxed and fulfilling life, where one can appreciate the benefits of a place without being weighed down by its complexities.