Meaning: The quote by E. L. Doctorow highlights the complex and often problematic relationship between individuals and the state in the twentieth century. Throughout this period, the interaction between people and their respective governments underwent significant changes, leading to a more intimate but often detrimental connection.

The twentieth century was characterized by a multitude of political, social, and economic upheavals that reshaped the dynamics of governance and citizenship. These changes brought about a closer and more intricate relationship between individuals and the state, as governments sought to exert greater influence and control over the lives of their citizens. This shift in the nature of the relationship between the person and the state had profound implications for the autonomy and well-being of individuals.

One of the key aspects of this evolving relationship was the expansion of state power and intervention into the private lives of citizens. This manifested in various forms, including increased surveillance, regulation of personal behavior, and the erosion of privacy rights. The state's intrusion into the personal sphere of individuals had the effect of diminishing personal freedoms and autonomy, thereby detrimentally impacting people's lives.

Moreover, the quote suggests that the intimacy between the person and the state has predominantly been to the detriment of the former. This notion implies that the increased closeness between individuals and the state has resulted in negative consequences for the former, as governments have often wielded their power in ways that have infringed upon the rights and well-being of their citizens. This can be observed through instances of authoritarianism, oppression, and the violation of human rights by various regimes around the world during the twentieth century.

The quote also alludes to the fact that the personal relationship with the state has become a fact of life, implying that the pervasive influence of governments on individuals has become an inescapable reality. This underscores the profound impact of state power on the lives of people, as well as the enduring nature of this intimate, albeit often detrimental, connection.

In light of historical events such as totalitarian regimes, mass surveillance programs, and the erosion of civil liberties, it is evident that the relationship between individuals and the state in the twentieth century was characterized by a significant imbalance of power. This imbalance often tilted in favor of the state, resulting in the subjugation and disenfranchisement of individuals.

In conclusion, E. L. Doctorow's quote encapsulates the intricate and often problematic nature of the relationship between individuals and the state in the twentieth century. It serves as a poignant reminder of the pervasive influence of governments on the lives of people, and the detrimental impact this intimacy has had on personal freedoms and well-being. The quote prompts reflection on the historical realities of state power and its implications for individual autonomy and rights, shedding light on the complex dynamics that have defined this critical relationship.