In "The Naked and the Dead," Norman Mailer explores the complex relationship between material possessions and personal comfort. He suggests that an accumulation of belongings can lead to a heightened sense of need, where individuals tie their comfort to the items they own. This cycle can create a dependency on material goods, which may ultimately detract from genuine well-being.

The quote reflects a critical observation about how society often equates comfort with ownership. As people amass more possessions, they may inadvertently complicate their lives, as maintaining and managing these items becomes a burden. Mailer's insights encourage readers to consider the consequences of consumerism and the true sources of comfort in life.