[HPforGrownups] Logic puzzles in Digest Number 114

[Amanda Lewanski]

No: HPFGUIDX 2486

Pogonia the Harry Potter fan wrote:

> It was interesting at the time, and three books later is even more
> interesting, to realize that Snape was the one to develop the puzzle and
> presumably to write the instructions accompanying it.  But why didn't he
> write the directions in terse prose, or in some horribly mocking tone?. The
> fact that he invested the extra time to write a verse, and used civil
> language in it instead of insults and sarcasm, indicates that he must have
> sincerely enjoyed doing the project.

Snape doesn't breathe insults and sarcasm a la "Toads and Diamonds." He's a
bitter man, holds grudges for eons, and treats those he dislikes badly with
dedicated intensity, but he's also clearly intelligent, focused, and very good
at what he does. I also get the feeling he doesn't waste time or energy.
Creating this barrier put him against a 'virtual' opponent, one he did not
necessarily dislike, and let him focus on the details of his task. And it
probably was enjoyable to put together---potions are *about* details. I bet
potions people are as anal as editors. As readers, remember, we have not yet
been shown Snape in a non-turbulent situation among people he does *not*
dislike.

--Amanda