New theory about the gum wrappers

[vmonte]

No: HPFGUIDX 132219

Skrappy wrote:
There seems to be quite a bit of "token" actions through out the 
books. Harry has to return to Privet Drive to maintain the protection 
of his Mother's sacrifice (even though there is no show of affection 
or love), The Dursley's give Harry Christmas gifts every year 
(regardless of their nature), etc. I was thinking of that and 
thinking of the sacrifice/protection that Lily gave Harry
and... hmmm, I wonder if the gumwrappers are Neville's Mom's way of 
providing protection to him. She gives him a token gift when she sees 
him.

(OotP p512, Am. Ed.) Again ? said Mrs. Longbottom, sounding slightly 
weary. "Very well, Alice dear, very well- Neville, take it, whatever 
it is...." But Neville had already stretched out his hand,...

Perhaps, however the state she is in, underneath she is aware and by 
providing with that token gift, she is providing him with some sort 
of protection. There is definitely more to Neville than we've seen as 
far as his involvement in the story. That has continued to unfold 
book after book. Is it possible that there was protection for both 
Neville and Harry ? That both of their Mother's were aware of the 
prophecy and not knowing which boy was going to be "marked" by LV, 
Dumbledore had them both provide protection. I think it is definitely 
possible and perhaps this is Alice's way to continue to provide it by 
these token gifts (regardless of their nature).

Also, this has been going on for quite some time (possibly since 
she's been institutionalized).

vmonte responds:
Funny you should mention this. My brother's theory is that Neville's 
parents believed that the prophecy was about their son, and that 
they've been protecting their son by making everyone in the WW 
believe that Neville is untalented, forgetful, bumbling, etc. 

The gum wrappers may be mom's way of keeping Neville off of 
Voldemort's radar. 

Vivian