"Somebody like Mailer brings to that role everything that he stands for. The types of characters that I gravitate towards, the types of icons, tend to have a heavy physicality in that way"

Matthew Barney is describing the role of an iconic figure in society. He is suggesting that someone like Norman Mailer, who is a prominent author and public figure, brings a specific level of gravitas to the function. He implies that the types of characters he is drawn to have a strong physical presence, which is something that Mailer embodies. This could be translated as a referral to Mailer's outspokenness and willingness to challenge the status quo. It could likewise be viewed as a nod to his physical stature, which is imposing and frightening. Barney is suggesting that Mailer's existence and influence is something that he searches for in the characters he is drawn to.