Harry's eyes

[lamppost42 at hotmail.com]

No: HPFGUIDX 23100

> If Lily was a Seer, she would've known in advance Voldemort was 
> coming [unless the Death Eaters had some kind of precognition jamming 
> spell] -- and been able to avoid him or get somewhere better defended.

I not going to completely naysay this idea, although I'd like to point 
out that we don't know much of "seeing." What do we know?

1. It is rare
2. It gives the seer knowledge of the future 
3. Lily (Evans) Potter was a seer (interview with JKR)
4. Harry has had prophetic dreams since his first night at Hogwarts 
(the nightmare about Quirrel's turban), though his vivid dreams of the 
present stand have seemed more important so far (Frank Bryce's murder).  

We do not know any specifics of the seeing. Trelawney doesn't seem to 
be able to control her visions (of the future), so perhaps the 
predictions/prophecies are beyond the will of the seer (even a "true 
seer"). If this is so, Lily didn't necessarily know that Voldemort was 
coming. Also, if the predictions occur outisde the control of the seer, 
then having a seer in your power (even as a prisoner) would be a very 
valuable commodity. Could this by why Voldemort was loath to kill off 
Lily (well, loath by Voldemort standards)? 

Also, as much as I love the idea of Harry being the last descendent of 
Gryffindor (an idea which has been explored ad infinitum by the fanfic 
world), I hope JKR doesn't go this route (or if she does, to make it of 
little importance). Part of the fun of the HP universe is the tension 
of tradition versus innovation. Dumbledore promotes understanding 
between the muggle and magical worlds, but is opposed by old wizarding 
families feel that they are superior to muggle-descended wizards. 
Through this struggle JKR encourages all readers to respect and embrace 
their own differences. I think it would be somewhat problematic if 
Harry's super-magical abilities were, in fact, caused by his old 
wizarding ancestry. Wouldn't that lend credence to the argument for 
pureblood superiority? So far, JKR has been good about highlighting 
Harry's muggle-side gifts (seeing) as well as his wizard-side gifts 
(quidditch). I just hope that balance isn't thrown off when we find out 
exactly why Harry survived Voldemort's attack.

(Off-topic paranthetical: This is great! I've been looking for 
something like this for weeks!)

Of to see the Wizard,

Libby "42"