"I've never written anything that hasn't been in my mind for a long time - seven or eight years"

John McGahern's quote talks to the importance of taking some time to establish concepts and stories. He recommends that it takes a long time for ideas to completely form in the mind before they can be made a note of. This is a tip that writing is a process that requires perseverance and devotion. It is not something that can be rushed or done quickly. It takes some time to develop concepts and stories, and to craft them into something meaningful.

McGahern's quote also speaks to the significance of reflection and consideration. He suggests that concepts require to be thought about and mulled over for a very long time before they can be jotted down. This is a tip that writing is not almost putting words on paper, however likewise about putting in the time to believe deeply about the ideas and stories that we want to inform.

Overall, McGahern's quote is a reminder that composing is a process that requires perseverance and devotion. It requires time to develop concepts and stories, and to craft them into something significant. It is very important to make the effort to reflect and consider before putting words on paper.