Meaning: The quote by Bette Davis reflects a sentiment of nostalgia for a simpler time when the moral and ethical lines were more clearly drawn. Davis longs for the "good old days" of heroes and villains, where people's actions and character were more easily discernible, and where there was a certain truth and authenticity that seems to be missing in the present day. This perspective sheds light on the changing nature of society and the evolving complexities of human behavior and relationships.

In the quote, Davis expresses a longing for a time when individuals were unambiguously categorized as either heroes or villains. This binary classification reflects a desire for clarity and certainty, as well as a yearning for the moral absolutes of the past. In the past, heroes were celebrated for their noble deeds and unwavering integrity, while villains were condemned for their malevolence and deceit. This clear demarcation allowed for a straightforward understanding of right and wrong, good and evil.

The reference to "the slick credulity of today" suggests a skepticism towards the contemporary culture of duplicity and artifice. Davis appears to lament the prevalence of superficial appearances and deceptive facades that obscure genuine authenticity and sincerity. The phrase "slick credulity" implies a sense of deceitful charm and persuasiveness that may lead people astray, highlighting the perceived lack of trustworthiness in modern times.

Furthermore, the quote captures a longing for the unadulterated truth that Davis believes was more inherent in the past. The "truth" she refers to may encompass not only the clarity of moral distinctions but also the genuineness and transparency that she perceives as being compromised in the present era. This longing for truth indicates a yearning for a more straightforward and unambiguous reality, free from the complexities and deceptions that are perceived to characterize contemporary society.

Bette Davis, as an acclaimed actress known for her portrayals of strong and complex female characters, likely draws from her experiences in the entertainment industry to comment on the evolving nature of storytelling and character portrayal. The era she longs for may be one in which the roles of heroes and villains were more archetypal and the narratives more straightforward, allowing for a more pronounced sense of truth and authenticity in the performances and stories of her time.

In conclusion, Bette Davis's quote encapsulates a yearning for the simplicity and clarity of a bygone era, where heroes and villains were more easily distinguishable and the truth was perceived as more accessible. While her perspective reflects a longing for a seemingly more authentic and truthful past, it also prompts a reflection on the evolving complexities of human nature and societal dynamics. The quote serves as a poignant commentary on the changing nature of morality, authenticity, and storytelling in the modern world.