"I feel I grew up in a different century than I live in. I think most of them are changes for the good"

John McGahern's quote speaks to the idea of development and how it can be both a blessing and a curse. He is reviewing the modifications that have happened on the planet because he was a kid, and how he feels like he grew up in a different century than he currently lives in. He acknowledges that much of these modifications are for the better, however he also recognizes that a few of them may not be. He is most likely referring to the fast technological developments that have taken place recently, in addition to the social and political modifications that have actually happened. He is likely expressing a sense of fond memories for the past, while likewise acknowledging that development can be helpful. Eventually, McGahern's quote speaks with the concept that progress can be both a blessing and a curse, and that it is important to recognize both the excellent and the bad that features it.