Why don't you get out of that wet coat and into a dry martini?

In this quote, Robert Benchley humorously suggests that instead of focusing on the discomfort of a wet coat, the person should "get into a dry martini." The humor arises from the absurdity and the contrast between dealing with the literal issue of being wet and choosing to indulge in a martini, a symbol of relaxation and luxury. Benchley uses this humorous approach to suggest that, rather than dealing with the mundane issue of being wet, one should simply embrace a carefree, indulgent approach to life, focusing on pleasure rather than inconvenience.

Benchley, known for his sharp wit and satirical style, often used humor to address everyday situations and the human tendency to overthink or fret about minor issues. The suggestion of drinking a martini, often associated with sophistication and leisure, in response to a wet coat, reflects his typical approach of turning life's annoyances into opportunities for humor and lightness.

The quote also speaks to Benchley’s ability to highlight the contrast between everyday problems and indulgence. It plays with the idea that, rather than reacting to discomfort or inconvenience (like a wet coat), one might instead choose to focus on enjoying life's pleasures in a more immediate and extravagant way. It suggests that some problems can be momentarily forgotten through indulgence or escapism.

Ultimately, Benchley’s quote is a witty commentary on how people sometimes choose to deal with life's inconveniences with humor or escapism, rather than confronting them directly. His blend of sarcasm and irony captures his ability to make light of life's trivialities while also offering a humorous perspective on how we handle discomfort.