"We are constantly being surprised that people did things well before we were born"

In this quote, Robert Benchley is expressing his amazement at the accomplishments of individuals who lived before his time. He is acknowledging that there is a propensity to ignore the abilities and achievements of those who came before us. Benchley is suggesting that we frequently presume that our generation is the most sophisticated and capable, however in truth, individuals have actually been accomplishing excellent things for centuries. He is advising us to have a simple perspective and to recognize the contributions of those who paved the way for us. This quote works as a pointer to appreciate the past and to not ignore the abilities of those who came before us.