Why Do You Read the HP Books?

[lealess]

No: HPFGUIDX 142742

--- In HPforGrownups at yahoogroups.com, "ibchawz" <ibchawz at y...> wrote:
>
> The first issue I would like to address is JKR's writing ability and 
> style. I have seen comments regarding the contrived nature of some
> of the plot elements used.  I have also seen comments that JKR 
> sacrifices character development to move the plot along.  At the 
> other end of the spectrum, I have read that some feel that the plot 
> follows the standard fantasy / hero's quest storyline too closely
> and that she should be more original.  My question is:  If you feel
> these books are so poorly written from a character, plot, and 
> storyline development perspective, why do you read them?
> 
> I have seen criticism of Harry Potter's character and moral fiber.  
> Comments I have seen include him being arrogant, lazy, rebellious, 
> amoral, immoral, plagiaristic, disrespectful, incompetent, etc.  If 
> Harry, as the main character, is really this bad a person, why do 
> you read the books?
> 
> ibchawz
>

I read the books for one thing: character.  I read for the character
of the wizarding world, which is fascinating.  I read for the complex
characterization of those who act within that world.

The plot doesn't really matter to me, except as an explanation of how
the characters got to be the way they are and perhaps to predict how
they will behave in the future, or at least as a means to understand
their actions.  Other literary devices, the parallels to alchemy, the
Tarot, the mystery elements
 all of those are interesting, but I
honestly don't have the time to delve into those topics to do them any
justice, let alone participate in discussions about them.

It is the characters, their motivation and actions, which keep me
coming back to the HP books.  I like that the characters in the book
are complex.  I do not automatically see them as good or bad (except
Umbridge and Greyback).  Harry, most of all, as a developing
character, is the most interesting to read about.  He has many facets
to his personality.  I do not see him as bad; he has the same struggle
everyone faces with character traits that could limit his development
if he indulges in them, or could save him if he holds to them.

I think it's a tribute to the skill of Rowling's writing that she has
created such captivating characters, capable of generating endless
debate.  And, of course, through the characters, readers question what
is important in their worlds.  I will be reading the seventh book to
find out what happens to the characters, Harry and the wizarding world
most of all, and really for no other reason
 well, except perhaps for
the humor.  They can be funny books.

Thanks for the great question,

lealess