In Cormac McCarthy's "The Road," the quote reflects a deep sense of despair regarding the coexistence of humans and gods in a bleak world. The speaker expresses a belief that both men and gods struggle to survive, suggesting that there is little comfort or hope in this desolate existence. The sentiment emphasizes the isolation felt in a world where companionship may not bring solace, leading the speaker to prefer solitude over the burden of companionship with a god.
Furthermore, the hope that "things will be better when everybody's gone" indicates a longing for a world free from suffering and turmoil. The idea of being on the road with the last god conjures images of a tragic journey, hinting that the presence of divine beings in such a dire situation does not guarantee safety or happiness. Ultimately, the quote captures the profound sense of loneliness and futility in a deteriorating landscape, where even the divine seems helpless.