Our parents had Star Wars. We had Harry Potter. And now, many state that this era has ended.
Rowling released her first novel when I was about six or seven. I borrowed the first one from my cousin, whose mother had heard about the series and ordered it from Amazon, since it wasn’t yet available in the United States. Although the young boy’s encounters with the Philosopher’s Stone engrossed me, I couldn’t have imagined the kind of worldwide phenomenon his wizarding world would become.
Four midnight novel premieres/all-nighters reading, four midnight movie premieres, and several private school costumes later, it’s safe to say I’m a fan. I’ve read every book, seen every movie at least twice (including the new one – just saw it again!), and watched Harry Potter Puppet Pals on YouTube until I knew all the words and could sing the songs with my friends. Needless to say, the magic of this saga has taken not only me but also my generation through childhood, so watching Harry and his friends defeat Lord Voldemort was bittersweet.
However, I don’t believe it’s the end, as the movie’s advertising claims. Technically, there is not an end and there will never be an end as long as we can reread the books or rewatch the movies and relive the experience over and over. To quote Dumbledore, words are the most powerful magic. J.K. Rowling’s magic has already touched millions and will undoubtedly continue to do so for years to come, whether through printed page, lighted screen, board game, or interactive website.
Thanks, J.K., for providing such an integral part of my last twelve years. I owe you one.