John McGahern Quotes

A collection of quotes by John McGahern.

John McGahern was an Irish novelist and short story writer, born on November 12, 1934, in Dublin, Ireland. He is celebrated for his evocative and deeply introspective works that often explore themes of rural Irish life, family dynamics, and the struggles of ordinary people. McGahern's best-known novels include "The Barracks," "Amongst Women," and "That They May Face the Rising Sun." Through his lyrical prose and keen observations, McGahern captured the essence of the Irish countryside and portrayed the complexities of human relationships with great sensitivity. He passed away on March 30, 2006, leaving behind a lasting literary legacy.

When I start to write, words have become physical presence.

When I start to write, words have become physical presence. It was to see if I could bring that private world to life that found its first expression through reading. I really dislike the romantic notion of the artist.

John McGahern


When I was in my 20s it did occur to me that there was somet

When I was in my 20s it did occur to me that there was something perverted about an attitude that thought that killing somebody was a minor offence compared to kissing somebody.

John McGahern

Attitude