Potterverse Destiny (was Re: C. S. Lewis and Potterverse Destiny)

[cubfanbudwoman]

No: HPFGUIDX 121252


Laurasia:
> In order to give us total freedom of choice we also need to be 
> given a chance *not* to choose anything, ie to stick with fate. 
> 
> To choose, or not to choose, that is the question.
> 
> In order to see the importance of choice we also need to see fate. 
> JKR and DD's reprise 'choices more than ability' only works if we 
> have both. IMO, JKR has included instances of fate- prophecies, 
> school houses, similarities between parent and child, etc. because 
> it demonstrates how easy it is to give up choice. 


SSSusan:
I absolutely agree that the characters have the freedom to choose or 
to choose not to choose, but I don't see the latter as equalling 
Fate.  I really think what Neil Peart wrote in one of my favorite 
Rush songs is true:  "If you choose not to decide, you still have 
made a choice." 

JKR was asked flat out if she believed in fate, and she said, "No. I 
believe in hard work and luck and that the first often leads to the 
second" [The Scotsman, 10/04].  I think she may use elements that 
seem like fate in the books, such as the prophecies, but they'll be 
overshadowed by choice.

Siriusly Snapey Susan