Yes - Bella's mind is certainly convoluted. And that is what makes her interesting, because of the sheer amount of contradiction and single-mindedness in one place. I'm looking forward to your thoughts on the fic and on more discussion about Bella! :-)
Different authors, different strengths. JKR's power is in world-building and action, but she takes a rather short-cut on character development. I've recently read a brilliant book on characterisation by Orson Scott Card that would probably categorise JKR's series as a mix of milieu and event story. (That book is next on my list to post about in my creative writing posts, but it will still take some time.)
Yes, Molly might share that trait with many mothers, but that doesn't make it more sympathetic. :-) I find your observation about the Weasleys' traditionalism very interesting, and I like that you point out how their beliefs are far less challenged. The bright side of war is a perfect way to put that! I would like to point out, though, that Arthur might be a little different. His attitude towards Muggles shows a lot more respect than that of the average wizard - a trait for which Molly despises him a little. I like his almost childlike fascination and willingness to try things out (stitches!).
Oh, there is no meme post. Amanuensis posted the (self-created?) meme question in her journal once, and people just answered in comments. So that's the whole meme: Pick a character you don't like or hate and name one thing they're good at.
Ah, I understand what you meant about Dolores. No, you didn't misread it, but I still don't think that she acted against her nature. She didn't save someone at a personal cost, but rather to gain something from it. She enjoys to see others suffer, but I see her as utilitarian at heart, and the end will justify the means for her any time.
Re: *shamelessly expands discussion on the Potter women*
Different authors, different strengths. JKR's power is in world-building and action, but she takes a rather short-cut on character development. I've recently read a brilliant book on characterisation by Orson Scott Card that would probably categorise JKR's series as a mix of milieu and event story. (That book is next on my list to post about in my creative writing posts, but it will still take some time.)
Yes, Molly might share that trait with many mothers, but that doesn't make it more sympathetic. :-) I find your observation about the Weasleys' traditionalism very interesting, and I like that you point out how their beliefs are far less challenged. The bright side of war is a perfect way to put that! I would like to point out, though, that Arthur might be a little different. His attitude towards Muggles shows a lot more respect than that of the average wizard - a trait for which Molly despises him a little. I like his almost childlike fascination and willingness to try things out (stitches!).
Oh, there is no meme post. Amanuensis posted the (self-created?) meme question in her journal once, and people just answered in comments. So that's the whole meme: Pick a character you don't like or hate and name one thing they're good at.
Ah, I understand what you meant about Dolores. No, you didn't misread it, but I still don't think that she acted against her nature. She didn't save someone at a personal cost, but rather to gain something from it. She enjoys to see others suffer, but I see her as utilitarian at heart, and the end will justify the means for her any time.