I have always regarded as a stroke of good fortune that I was not born or brought up in a small American town; they may be the backbone of the nation, but they are also the backbone of ignorance, bigotry, and boredom, all in vast quantities.
Gore Vidal reflects on his perspective regarding small American towns, viewing his upbringing outside such environments as fortunate. He acknowledges that while these towns contribute significantly to the country's fabric, they also harbor negative aspects such as ignorance, bigotry, and monotony. This duality suggests that while they hold essential societal value, they can simultaneously promote attitudes and behaviors that Vidal finds undesirable.
Vidal's sentiment highlights a critical view of the small-town experience, suggesting that it may limit personal growth and enlightenment. He implies that the cultural and intellectual richness found in larger or more diverse settings offers a more stimulating and progressive alternative to the perceived drawbacks of small-town life.