In "The Rum Diary," Hunter S. Thompson explores themes of existential detachment and disillusionment through the experiences of the protagonist, journalist Paul Kemp. As Kemp navigates his chaotic life in Puerto Rico, he grapples with a deep sense of isolation and alienation from the world around him. This feeling of disconnection is emphasized by the chaotic environment and the absurdity of the people he encounters.

The quote, "I felt a tremendous distance between myself and everything real," captures Kemp's struggle to find meaning and connection amidst the tumult of his surroundings. It reflects a profound internal conflict, as he seeks to understand his place in a reality that often feels surreal and overwhelming. Thompson's narrative poignantly illustrates the psyche of a man caught between the allure of escape and the demands of reality.