The fact that what you post is based on what he, himself, has voluntarily told you is a hopeful sign. That means he's aware that he is somewhat reclusive, and aware that to others he seems to have cut himself off. If he were doing these things and denying them or insisting too hard that he was just dandy, then that would be worse. As it is, he is telling you about this, and that is good; if he cut off communication with you, or refused to answer any questions ever, that would be far worse. Work to keep those lines of communication open without pressuring him. You might see a counselor, yourself, to get some ideas about how best to talk with your son and approach him about whether HE thinks he would want to see a counselor. I think you might want to lay out for a professional what you laid out for us here, and get that person's advice before suggesting counseling or therapy to your son; if you go about it wrong, he could feel too pressured and could back away from talking with you as freely.
Is there any chance that, since he does tell you these things, that he is somewhat jokey about it but because you're his mom and worried, you don't hear it that way? Perhaps he isn't really quite the recluse he paints himself to be? He may be cultivating a public persona in his little town, actually courting the image of writer/loner/town recluse/curmudgeon. Writers and creative people do sometimes build their own "I do my own thing" images so that they'll be left alone to work as they like. Is that at all possible here? Just something to consider.
The most troubling thing to me is when you say he goes through periods of hating "people and society in general." That could range from normal irritation that passes quickly, all the way up to to serious depression or anger issues. But it's impossible to tell from the post and it might not be possible for you to tell either, based just on what he says. If your relationship with him is strong enough, you can ask him what he means if he says he hates X or Y person or situation. If your relationship is not that strong or you fear upsetting him -- see the thought above, about getting some outside advice from a professional (which we aren't, here).
Sorry some are saying you're trying to control him. I don't get that from your post. I do think you are blaming yourself and your divorce and the hard life you both had -- don't do that. It was what it was and can't be changed. Others have lived tough lives too but don't become reclusive because of it.
