[HPforGrownups] The Black dog

[Anne Geldermann]

No: HPFGUIDX 84012

Richard Parker said:
> Hi guys, not sure if this has been picked up yet, but Winston 
> Churchill once famously described his depression as 'the black 
> dog'. Sirius' animagus form is obviously a black dog. Thus, 
> Harry may slide into depression due to Sirius' death.


The black dog is a common occurence in folklore, especially in England.  The 
apparition, with many nicknames (including the Grim, Padfoot, but mostly 
(Black/Old) Shuck) is usually considered a bad sign, including the death 
omen it is considered in the books.  My guess is that JK and Churchill both 
got the idea from these stories.

It is probably a safe bet that Harry will continue to be depressed about the 
loss of Sirius, although I think he seemed rather depressed and angry 
through almost the whole of OOTP anyway.  What (if anything) do you suppose 
will snap him out of this funk?  He seemed a little better after talking to 
Luna.  Will he get better emotionally, or will brooding over the prophecy 
all summer plunge him further into Angstland?

Anne