How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
[Dad] tells me about the old days in Ireland when the English wouldn't let the Catholics have schools because they wanted to keep the people ignorant, that the Catholic children met in hedge schools in the depths of the country and learned English, Irish, Latin, and Greek. The people loved learning. They loved stories and poetry even if none of this was any good for getting a job. (8.165)
Malachy Sr. knows the value of education and doesn't want Frank to take it for granted because Irish children suffered to get an education in hedge schools and ditches. He goes on to tell Frankie to study hard and go to America where he can get an "inside job," out of the rain and cold. Some things never change, though. Malachy Sr. thought that the liberal arts can't get you a job. So, do you want chips with that?
Quote #8
Grandma tells me I have naked eyes and she says it's my own fault, all that eye trouble comes from sitting up there at the top of the lane under the light pole in all kinds of weather with my nose stuck in books and the same thing will happen to Malachy if he doesn't give over the reading. You can see little Michael is getting just as bad sticking his nose in books when he should be out playing like a healthy child. Books, books, books, says Grandma, ye will ruin yeer eyes entirely. (9.62)
Why do you think Grandma Sheehan is so averse to books? Is it maybe because she never had an education herself? It's heartening to see that all the McCourt boys love to read.
Quote #9
He tells me I should go to school and not be like him working away with the two legs rotting away under him. Go to school Frankie, and get out of Limerick and Ireland itself. […] School, Frankie, school. The books, the books, the books. Get out of Limerick before your legs rot and your mind collapses entirely. (11.76)
Frank's enjoying working for Mr. Halloran because it gets him out of school and makes him feel grownup. Mr. Halloran sees that this is a pretty short-sighted view, and encourages Frankie not to end up toiling and ruining his health like he's done. Shmoop loves the conversational tone of this passage.