Thanks for this story. Most stories are written from the point of view of people who did get heavily involved, on one side or other, in the titanic struggle convulsing the magical world.

This story, told by someone who chooses to remain neutral, is thought provoking and a little unsettling.

It is not quite clear form this story why Tracy chose to remain neutral. Was it fear, resentment that at such a young age the choice had to be made, or perhaps she somehow absorbed the family philosophy of not getting involved.

It does seem that getting inspired by Emmaline and Dorcas after the war is all a little too late, safe and convenient when, presumably, she was surrounded by people making courageous choices during the war. Tracey is hardly alone, though. Most people stayed neutral or, worse, like Tracey’s father, collaborated with Voldemort’s regime. All the same, it is hardly an admirable stance.

Your story is an interesting study of someone coming to terms with their new situation and their choices post war. I must admit, that I found the following paragraph difficult:

“Yet Emmeline and Dorcas choosing to fight didn’t make Tracey feel like a coward for not staying to fight in the Battle of Hogwarts. It was a reaffirmation that some must fight their own battles before they can take on the world’s.”

I wouldn’t necessarily expect Tracey to be feeling like a coward, but I would expect her to be a little more conflicted and to feel a little more guilt or perhaps regret at her choices. I haven’t read your other stories so perhaps I am missing the necessary backstory.

In summary, I found your story interesting and enjoyable to read and thought provoking to boot. Thanks for writing,


Eric