Can Embedded Methods in Go Access Parent Fields?

Accessing Parent Fields from Embedded Methods in Go: Is it Feasible?

In Go, embedded methods allow embedding types into other types, enabling code reuse and providing a simpler interface. However, a common question arises: can embedded methods access fields of the parent type?

Background:

Go's embedding mechanism leverages composition to extend the functionality of a type without inheritance. When a type is embedded, its fields and methods become part of the embedding type.

Goal:

The aim of this question relates to creating an Active Record style ORM for Go, where methods are embedded on the user struct to abstract away data store operations.

Example:

type Foo struct {
    *Bar
    Name string
}

func (s *Foo) Method() {
    // How to access "Name" field from this embedded method?
}

Question:

Is there a way to make top-level fields (parent fields) accessible from embedded methods like s.Name or call s.Method()?

Answer:

Go does not natively support accessing parent fields from embedded methods. The receiver of the embedded method is strictly bound to the embedded type in this case, *Bar. Therefore, accessing parent fields directly is not possible.

Alternative Approaches:

• Interface-based Solution: Add an interface{} field to the embedded type, requiring containing types to implement this interface. This approach provides access to the parent type but may add additional complexity.
• Modified API Structure: Consider structuring the API as db.Save(user) rather than user.Save(). This approach aligns with Go's idiomatic use of function calls and handles multiple databases gracefully.

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