Hello,

Firstly, I'd just like to congratulate you on the obvious level of literary competence you possess, and the thorough research you've clearly undertaken. Secondly, I regret that I could only manage to read the first chapter of your essay, and I'll get back to the rest of it at a later date, but thought I should comment on the particular part I've read.

So far I'm not entirely convinced with your argument and although I've gone to the chapters/pages sourced, cannot yet reconcile myself with the idea of Hermione dosing Ginny with a love potion. It's a shame you refuse so vehemently to take symbolism into consideration as I believe it is an inherent ingredient to fully understanding and appreciating the text. I personally don't feel that a complex analysis can be carried out, or the potential nuances embedded within the text fully realised, without considering the symbolism woven throughout the entire series.

Symbolism aside, I like to form my opinions using as wide a variety of sources as possible, first and foremost of which would be JK herself and I'm not sure you truly regard her quoted interviews/statements etc., as they're intended. This, however, may be put down to a simple difference in personal opinion.

In any case, the main flaw of your argument in my opinion was your portrayal of Hermione, her archetypal characteristics and overall psyche. I believe you've misunderstood her motives and purposes as a character. I also think you've read too much into the absence of "flowery smells" and obvious lack of references/inquires concerning Ginny on Harry's part, which constitutes a central component of your argument. I think it's imperative to consider the fact that compression is inevitable in a novel and therefore it is simply not possible to include every minor detail or hint pertaining to Harry/Ginny in particular. Thus, omission of inquires concerning Ginny and other signs of his feelings towards her are of little significance and cannot be interpreted as a sure sign of interference via love potion on Hermione's part. I also think that, on the whole, Harry’s and Ginny’s relationship is more an avenue of provision for Harry's growth and development than a core plotline.

Continuing the above points I think it's safe to assume that it wasn't necessary to litter subtle hints and clues about Harry’s true feelings for Ginny as their relationship was a minor sub-plot and canonical Harry is given to moody, adolescent introspection and consequently, entitled to concealment of his feelings. Thus, JK included the most important and relevant scenes concerning Harry and Ginny’s fleeting relationship/romance, as she saw them and quite frankly, as an author myself, I can empathise with her. I don’t pretend to be privy to JK’s thoughts, however and this latter paragraph has been pure speculation-based opinion.

-Witchfire

PS: Refrain from sarcastic/superfluous retaliation would be much appreciated; as it's apparent that you’re far more intelligent than that.