[HPforGrownups] Time Travel in PoA

[Lissa B]

No: HPFGUIDX 57796

Dave wrote:
> My opinion on this is that Rowlings introduced the time turner
> to do three things:
> 
> 1)  Introduce a device that allows her to explore the concept of being in
> two places at the same time, primarily to work Hermione's character
> development.
> 2)  Give us a way for Harry to win in the end, while appearing to be in
> mortal danger.
> 3)  Reinforce what she says in interviews about James and Lily being
> really, truly, completely dead.
> 
> Of these, I think the third is really critical, but the other two are
> still important.
>
> WRT the "ocean liner" comment, I think the "big trip" isn't coming, but
> it's already happened.

Lissa replied:
That's a fair point of view.  I can see how a person could argue that
Hermione's strange class load was the foreshadowing and the
Buckbeak/Black rescue the payoff.  (nods)

What I can't understand is how any of the items on your list--other than
exploration of the 2-places-at-once concept--necessitate time travel. 
(And given that no paradoxical results were engendered by Harry and
Hermione's time trip, I don't think that particular concept truly was
explored to any depth.) If you can explain that to me, Dave, I think I
might be able to consider that Rowling won't return to this plot
device.  Of course, you're under no obligation to try to enlighten me. 
Besides, I'm a silly obtuse thing.  I'd probably still just be puzzled
and lost. (silly smile)

Cheers,
Lissa