Sirius: PoA vs. GoF: explanation

[blaise_42]

Original Yahoo! HPFG Header:
No: HPFGUIDX C7261
From: blaise_42
Subject: Re: Sirius: PoA vs. GoF: explanation
Reply To: [Yahoo! #7258] Sirius: PoA versus GoF
Date: 8/19/00 9:58 am  (ET)

The difference between Sirius in PoA and GoF is really quite worrying,
at least for a fanfic writer who thought she had his personality pinned
down from his appearance in PoA. Perhaps I was exaggerating with the
'HUGE,' but I can definitely see two different Siriuses.

In PoA, Sirius is vengeful and angry, he does not think before he acts
and he cannot control his temper at all. In GoF he is responsible, caring,
analytical and calm (not to mention choosing the nickname of Snuffles!!).

Secondly, in PoA, the effect of his twelve years in Azkaban can easily
be seen. In GoF, this experience has only a few cursory mentions. I find
it hard to believe he has recovered so fully and so swiftly.

Obviously, there are reasons such as the focus of the story and the
things that are essential to the plot (in many cases I would suggest plot
device as a reason for Sirius' behaviour), and also the fact that the
story is told from Harry's POV. JKR obviously wanted a parental figure
for Harry, and it makes sense to choose Sirius. But still, I find the
two descriptions of Sirius hard to reconcile.

I'd love someone to prove me wrong, because I don't like having to deal
with two different characters when I write!

~Blaise.