Earnestness: The Lightning-Struck Tower (Book 6, Chapter 27)
Feb 27, 2020
auto_awesome
In this podcast, the hosts explore the theme of Earnestness in Chapter 27 of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. They discuss Dumbledore's humanity, Draco's impossible situation, and the concept of earnestness versus naïveté. They analyze Dumbledore's authority and Harry's perspective, as well as the significance of earnestness in vulnerable moments. They also talk about framing moments, blessings, Draco's choices, and celebrate birthdays. They recommend podcasts, apps, and discuss a podcast platform for creators.
The importance of persisting for someone when they can no longer persist for themselves.
The struggle of feeling trapped and yearning for freedom to explore other choices.
Deep dives
The Painful Choice of Persisting
In this chapter, Harry forces Dumbledore to drink the potion, and the experience reminds a listener of their last night with their dying grandmother. It raises the question of when it is right to persist for someone when they can no longer persist for themselves.
Madam Rose Murta's Unwilling Role
Madam Rose Murta is imperious and being used as a pawn, but she still demonstrates care and helps Dumbledore. A blessing is offered for anyone who feels treated as an object rather than a person.
Draco's Desperation and False Superiority
Draco desperately wants to prove his power and superiority, but he is trapped and caught in a toxic cycle of expectations. A blessing is given for those who feel trapped and yearn for the freedom to explore other choices.
Choosing Earnestness in Chaos and Tragedy
In the face of chaos and tragedy, the question of how to be arises. Should we trust and engage the world with earnestness, even without knowing if it makes sense or is real? Or should we be more suspicious and savvy? This dilemma is explored through the choices of Draco and Dumbledore, and a contemplation of childhood beliefs in fairies.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Earnestness in the much-dreaded chapter twenty-seven of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we celebrate Dumbledore's humanity, sympathize with Draco's impossible situation, and discuss why Vanessa doesn't like death bed confessions. Throughout the episode we consider the question: When is earnestness actually naiveté?
Thanks to Diana for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter twenty-eight, Flight of the Prince, through the theme of Perfection with our friend Dr. Matt Potts.
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.