Rowling's writing was very simplistic indeed. I've often seen people remark that Harry should have shown signs of his traumatic childhood. But, no; nothing. As another example he should have been curious about his family, looked up the Potter history in the library. But, again - nothing. Not until Rowling needed it for her series. Book #7, the very last one, is where Harry finally finds out where they lived!!?!?!! Argh.
Having re-watched 'Good Will Hunting' recently the "it's not your fault" breakdown over recollections of an abused childhood rings a bell. It's a powerful part of Harry's character, even if Rowling never used it herself.
Best part for me was this bit:
She almost leaped over to him, gripping his arms and giving him a small shake.
I liked that very much, for some reason. I think it helped reinforce the ... panic ... that Harry was feeling. Or the import of it that maybe *he* wasn't acknowledging at the time, but his best friend was. Big Auror Wizard, reduced to a cowering little boy again. It's a big deal, and the abrupt transition from the calm!consultant to energetic!Hermione helped bring that home to me, I think. And/or we needed some 'energy' at that point to kick the story along.
Having re-watched 'Good Will Hunting' recently the "it's not your fault" breakdown over recollections of an abused childhood rings a bell. It's a powerful part of Harry's character, even if Rowling never used it herself.
Best part for me was this bit:
She almost leaped over to him, gripping his arms and giving him a small shake.
I liked that very much, for some reason. I think it helped reinforce the ... panic ... that Harry was feeling. Or the import of it that maybe *he* wasn't acknowledging at the time, but his best friend was. Big Auror Wizard, reduced to a cowering little boy again. It's a big deal, and the abrupt transition from the calm!consultant to energetic!Hermione helped bring that home to me, I think. And/or we needed some 'energy' at that point to kick the story along.
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