[HPforGrownups] Why magic works (was Re: A random question regarding owl post)

[Amanda Lewanski]

No: HPFGUIDX 3094

Sam Brown wrote:

> Anyway this has all gotten a little OT but I think that fact that
> magic works simply because it's intended to is a very interesting
> one.

I don't think it's "simply." I think potions ingredients are very important,
but the effect of will on the magic involved is strongly implied throughout.
The Unforgivable Curses seem to vary in strength with the caster, as Moody
says something of that nature. Anybody can mix up potions ingredients, but
there must be some focusing of the will on the final outcome which affects
it, or it would not be the art it clearly is. And the "wandless magics," the
animagus spells and transformation, are clearly will-driven, but they are
closely regulated, presumably because they are dangerous---more than just
the will is involved. Bottom line--I think the will, or intent, of the
caster of whatever spell (or mixer of whatever potion) is a vital
ingredient, but the other ingredients are no less vital.

--Amanda