(#) genna 2012-07-13
How is it possible for the Dursleys to be that full of themselves? I don't know what the word or phrase which neatly fit that world view. I find them and their depiction in the films as so one dimensional.
My question has always been how could their neighbors not notice how unpleasant and malignant they were? I have neighbors who have creeped me out in the past. If they had children, I would have asked questions and asked other people about it until I had answers that make sense.
They are one group which has bugged me about the HP verse.
I am intrigued with this magical coma of HP's and his relationship with HG so far.
Author's response
I believe that is an attitude after years of getting away with such awful neglect and mistreatment. You have to remember, the very first thing we see of the Dursleys in the Philosopher's Stone isn't a very good picture. They aren't very pleasant people, and then there's a massive time skip (ten years) and it doesn't explain HOW they became so unpleasant--only that they did.
And, sadly, there are people that unpleasant in real life.
As for how the neighbors never noticed, I actually have an explanation as to why that happened (which will be explained in future chapters). Because otherwise, I really don't know how on earth neighbors could've missed such glaring signs of abuse. I mean, even if Harry really was a hooligan, he did not deserve the shitty treatment.
Anyways, thanks for the review. :) Glad you like it so far.