This quote by Lord Kelvin is a reflection of the scientific understanding of the time. In 1895, when the quote was made, the idea of heavier-than-air flying machines was thought about impossible. This was because of the lack of understanding and innovation available to make such a feat possible. Lord Kelvin was a prominent physicist and mathematician, and his viewpoint was highly appreciated. His quote was a reflection of the clinical understanding of the time, and it was believed that the laws of physics would not permit heavier-than-air flying devices. This quote was a pointer of the restrictions of science at the time, and it was a suggestion that some things were thought about impossible. However, this quote was shown wrong in 1903 when the Wright brothers successfully flew the first heavier-than-air flying device. This was a significant advancement in air travel and it revealed that the difficult might be achieved with the ideal understanding and technology.
This quote is written / told by Lord Kelvin between June 26, 1824 and December 17, 1907. He/she was a famous Scientist from Ireland.
The author also have 6 other quotes.
"What is real is not the external form, but the essence of things... it is impossible for anyone to express anything essentially real by imitating its exterior surface"