“He’ll be famous – a legend – every child in our world will know his name”, declares Professor McGonagall in the opening chapter of Harry Potter, and indeed the books that followed have lived up to this prediction. Through her simple, balanced writing; relatable, quirky characters and a plot that expanded with each book- in a sort of continuum, obviously combined with efficient brand marketing- JK Rowling not only managed to tap into the (largely unexplored) market for children’s literature but also created an immersive experience for the adults- whether for a casual fantasy reading, or forming engaging communities online. The rest followed- houses in bios, a universal studios ‘Diagon Alley’ set, an 8th book, Dumbledore being announced gay on twitter (except in china)- we all know that, we experienced it. That is, until it stopped. The author became problematic and so did the consumption of her work therefore, right ?... right?

Unfortunately, for most people-no, at the time where her internet influenceability was at its prime and merchandise sales were actively funding organisations that advocated transphobia, most ‘potterheads’ decided to bring in the concept of ‘Death of an author’- the infamous literary theory which means, well, exactly that. Basically, it conceptualises that an artist can be separated from the art completely- thus, its utilisation clearing up the path to blatantly ignore the morality of potentially ruining the lives of millions of trans youth at the cost of posting selfies in their new Hogwarts robes. Fair enough bargain. Lindsay Eliis said it best, “ it is an academic solution to this emotional and ethical problem.” Even if we cast aside the fact that death of an author is a purely theoretical concept, the author’s persona leaks onto their works and time, reputation, socio-economic factors all add up to give the work its background value- it quite literally is impossible in a consumerism-fuelled economy to practise that. Unless, of course, you cut off all ties with the external world- any online discourse, subculture or platform, and therefore understandably any and all the merchandise and adaptations as well. In that case, congratulations- you’re free ! (except you’re here reading this already)