a bit more on wormwood (Artemisia)...
"In Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, the first thing Snape asks Harry in Potions class is, "Potter! What would I get if I added powdered root of asphodel to an infusion of wormwood?"
According to the Victorian Language of Flowers, asphodel is a type of lily meaning "my regrets follow you to the grave," and wormwood symbolizes bitterness and sorrow. The entire question has a hidden meaning of "I bitterly regret Lily's death.""
Interesting... And apparently what JK Rowling told Rickman was this tidbit...
ReplyDeleteJim, "Always" was the key, I think.
DeleteIt is embarrassing for me to admit that I have not read a single Harry Potter book nor have I seen the movies. My entire family (especially my grandchildren) look at me with shame when I say this.
ReplyDeleteAnnie, No need to walk the path of shame, If you read the first book, please let me know what you think. As for the grands: You are missing out on a great adventure is all, and they want to share that with you.
DeleteThe Harry Potter series is great literature to get young people to read and enjoy reading.
ReplyDeleteLove to see youngsters reading books, expanding their imaginations and knowledge.
DeleteThat's so interesting. Maybe I should read those books again, I wonder what else I missed.
ReplyDeleteI'm thinking of reading them again, and hunting up more insights.
DeleteWhat? That doesn't have anything to do with bacon.
ReplyDeleteWhat Odie said.
DeleteEvery good story has a little bacon grease in it... bacon is a secret weapon.
DeleteI did not know that. It is a series full of interesting tidbits.
ReplyDeleteThere are so many tidbits that one reading will not catch all of them.
DeleteI haven't read Harry Potter yet but just love how it has brought a generation of children to the written word that wasn't just a 140 character tweet.
ReplyDeletePatti, Is it possible for you to find a local youngster that would love to have you read it to them/with... maybe volunteer to read it at the library... two birds!
DeleteVery interesting! I read most of the Potter books and agree with you and your readers--they invited young people (and old!) to read with zest. I would never have seen that clue...nice catch.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you found the tidbit of interest, Cheri.
DeleteDidn't Rowling turn turn the headmaster Gandalf figure gay? That kind of ruined it for me.
ReplyDeletePadre, I'm at that point where the louder they shout the less I care to listen.
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