Shippers and Non-Shippers

[Cindy C.]

No: HPFGUIDX 28081

I have been thinking of asking this question for a while, but I have 
never figured out exactly how to phrase it.  So forgive me if this 
comes off as a little awkward.  It isn't my intention to offend.

As we all know, to date, there has been only a small amount of overt 
romantic activity described in the HP series.  There is almost none 
in the first three books.  In GoF, there is "The Unexpected Task" 
and "The Yule Ball."  Those chapters were played mostly for laughs, 
IMHO.  Occasionally, we see Harry or Ron be smitten with a girl, and 
Hermione had some rather muted interest in Krum.  That's about it.

Nevertheless, there is rampant speculation on the list about Ships, 
and development of Ships in future books is one of the most eagerly 
awaited developments.  Entire discussion groups exist to discuss 
Ships.

I must admit I have no interest in Ships (or Slash) among any of the 
adult characters.  If Sirius and Snape became rivals over a woman, I 
would just melt away and die, I think.  If Lupin hooked up with Mrs. 
Figg, well . . . I think I'd be turning those pages mighty fast.  
Even for Harry, Ron and Hermione, I would prefer that they stick to 
the knitting and not have significant romantic relationships until 
post-Book 7.  I have no idea why this is, but perhaps it is a feeling 
that the next three books should be fast-paced adventures, and Ships 
would steer the books toward being romance novels?  I really don't 
know.

So then, the question:  Does most people on the list look forward to 
more ships?  If so, why would Ships enhance the books for you?  Do 
the Shippers greatly outnumber the non-Shippers?  

Cindy  (wondering if it is possible to convert from non-Shipper to 
pro-Shipper)