"I used to take five or six books away and bring five or six books back. Nobody gave me direction or advice and I read much in the way that a boy might watch television"

John McGahern's quote speaks to the power of self-directed learning. He had the ability to teach himself by reading books with no assistance or guidance from anybody else. This talks to his self-reliance and resourcefulness. He had the ability to explore different subjects and concepts on his own, just like a kid may watch tv. This quote also speaks with the significance of reading and the effect it can have on an individual's life. Reading can open new worlds and viewpoints, and it can be a powerful tool for self-education. McGahern's quote is a testament to the power of reading and the value of self-directed learning. It is a pointer that we can all take control of our own education and explore the world through books.