HP Obsession - why?

[alhewison]

Since reading the first 2 books, 3 years ago I have become obsessed 
by the HP series. I have reread and reread (at least 10 times), 
analysed, bored friends over the HP books. But why?

As a teenager (I'm 33 now), I got really into some bands, liked 
actors etc etc. This feels very different. I have always read alot, 
but I can't remember ever rereading a book so many times, and 
certainly not spending tonnes of time trying to predict the future, 
fathom out why someone did or said something.

My HP experience is unique for me - lots of my friends think it's 
very funny, and I nolonger dare mention the subject - unless they 
bring it up, when I try to sound offhand and unconcerned.

I know what I like about the books - the myths, characterisations, 
plot build up, Good v Evil, red herrings etc etc. But why the need to 
work it out? why do I get so frustrated by the inconsistencies?

I have only been a member of HPFGU for a few months, but what a 
relief. Not only had my Lily/Snape SHIP been thought of, it had been 
plotted out to unthought-of depths. I have been introduced to loads 
of new ideas (Fudge was always a bumbling, short-sighted appeaser to 
me, but I can at least understand now why others think he could be 
evil).

So now I wonder about everyone else on this list. Is the HP obsession 
new to others as well, or have you experienced this with other books, 
bands/ Star Trek etc. Is there a cure? Right now, a think that 
reading OoP might help, but I suspect I would then only want to read 
Book 6.

Ali

(feeling rather embarassed, but relieved about sharing her HP 
experience with other Potterologists - who will hopefully be 
understanding)