There is a difference between being lonely and being alone.

Enjoying solitude is very different from not being able to connect with people. And that precisely is the difference between being lonely and being alone.

Being alone and enjoying solitude is deeply rewarding. It can be 'more' comfortable for some. It is peaceful and it is powerful.

Being lonely on the other hand drains you. It tends to eat you from inside. All your internal demons attack you. The only escape seems to be worldly noise and you indulge in that. Which is why, even when surrounded by people, often, you feel lonely.