The use of the name Voldemort

[bboy_mn]

No: HPFGUIDX 41161

--- In HPforGrownups at y..., "jean_cuffe" <jean_cuffe at y...> wrote:
> I couldn't see this on the
> VFAQ, so excuse me if it's 
> in there.
> 
> My friend and I were wondering
> about the use (or lack, there of)
> of the name Voldemort. Now, wizards 
> and witches don't say the name 
< because they are afraid of it etc.
> 
> So, why would muggle borns 
> (i.e. Hermione) be afraid to 
> use the name?? In the books, 
> it is only Dumbledore and Harry (mostly) 
> that call him Voldemort. It doens't make sense.
> 
> And doesn't the insistence of Wizards of not saying 
> his name, incite a fear that isn't there? If they 
> weren't scared of Voldemort, perhaps he wouldn't be 
> so powerful.
> 
> Just our little thoughts, would like to hear yours :-)
> 
> Jean


Another thought, somewhat unrelated; why are they afraid to speak his
name in the first place? How could it possibly make any difference?

Most of the magic in the magic world is invoked by incantations, the
speaking of powerful magic words. The fear is that speaking
Voldemort's name may act as an incantation to conjure him; in a sense,
to speak his  name is to invite him to join you. 

There is a similar precedent in speaking Satan or the Devil's name; a
fear that speaking it is inviting the devil to join you. Also, in most
cases where the devil is called from hell to the earthly world, it is
done by speaking his name or calling him three time in conjunction
with a ritual.

So it's easy to see why magic people who use words to make magical
things happen, would be reluctant to speak certain words. I'm pretty
sure most magical people avoid speaking the words 'Avada Kadavra' even
casually for fear they might accidently invoke the curse. 

So, to speak Voldemort's name, is like inviting him to join you, and
nobody wants to suddenly find some sick twisted psychotic lizard man
sitting in the chair next to them.

BBOY_MN