[the_old_crowd] Re: Please mark and return wtih comments

[susiequsie23]

Lyn:
> I think there is a tendency among many, and a strong point of view
> among a few, to perceive Harry's successes as almost entirely due to
> external factors, rather than his own abilities. I read things
> differently, seeing Harry as a more powerful wizard than most others,
> but with his magical powers developed from his choices and bravery
> rather than innately bestowed on him or gained from academic
> commitment and talent. Perhaps I assume incorrectly, but I tend to
> believe that was a message JKR intended throughout the series, that
> you may not be born of exceptional wealth  (e.g., the Malfoys) or
> intellect (DD, TR, Hermione), but you can make a powerful mark on the
> world by your choices and commitment to good.


Hallelujiah!!  I'm not the only one!  I've always been one to use the phrase 
'There's Something About Harry' (to some folks' derision, I know), and, Lyn, 
you've captured the essence of what I meant but so rarely could put into 
words myself.  That is, it's not necessarily inherent power or skill... 
*nor* that he 'inherited' all that strength and power from Voldemort on the 
night of GH... it's how these skills and powers developed through his 
choices & bravery.  Thanks, Lyn, for saying it so well.

A few days ago, I was either watching or reading a transcript of one of the 
recent JKR interviews, and I believe she used a phrase something like 'a 
decent enough wizard' to describe the Harry who presented himself at school 
at age 11. Darn that I can't recall the precise language, but I do remember 
having the reaction that she distinctly wanted to say that Harry never was 
one of the supremely innately talented wizards like DD or Riddle.

::takes off D'oH badge, gives it a huff and a polish::

Siriusly Snapey Susan