words and over-analyzing /analysing

[Steve Vander Ark]

No: HPFGUIDX 6997


> A great point, and doubtless true; JKR went for the *effect* of the 
name, in
> my opinion. I think she is a genius at picking names that *sound* 
and *feel*
> right, that aren't planned as much as we think, but which simply 
turn out to
> be perfect. 

 This is not to
> say there's not some thought, but I don't think it's anywhere as 
deep as
> we've been delving.
> 
> Or have I just espoused heresy? Should I expect coal in my stocking?


Amanda this is exactly right. I've been trying to figure out how to 
say it. Names like Malfoy are built on the Mal=bad, sure, but the 
rest is the cool, slightly nasty sound, I'm sure. Madam Pince is 
another good one...sounds like "pinch" and recalls pince nez, but 
that's most likely it. The point is that it's a perfect name for 
someone who is your stereotypical uptight old fashioned school 
librarian--it SOUNDS right. 

Yes, we do over-analyze. But we aren't as bad as the Beacham book -- 
Muggles suggests muggy, as in damp weather?! Peter Pettigrew's 
missing finger suggests that he a problem making a point?! ARGH! Puh-
LEEEZE!

At least we're INTELLIGENTLY over-analyzing.

Steve