Random Thoughts of Chris Tilley

The cover art for the new Harry Potter is out. Both the UK and US versions lead to questions about the plot. First let me say I much prefer the US version. The UK version has a cartoony feel to it which just doesn't feel appropriate. For complete pictures of the cover go to 'The Leaky Cauldron'.

First the US version. The first thing I noticed that Harry and Voldemort are not actually looking at each other but at someone or something off screen. Then I notice that neither are wielding wands. Who's off screen? What are they trying to catch? Wands maybe?

I then looked at the background. Sunrise or sunset? Roman Aqueduct. What I first thought where gravestones look more like people circled around. Death Eaters?

When I started examining it in detail I noticed that Harry has something around his neck. What could that be? The last of Voldemort's Horcruxes?

The strangest thing is the foreground with the tied back drapes. It almost looks like they are on a stage but that really doesn't make sense to me. They are torn and frayed at the bottom. A destroyed house with the drapes still hanging from the ruins? James and Lily's house?

The UK version shows Harry, Ron and Hermione obviously worse for battle in front of or falling in to a portal. What is the portal? Are they falling in to it, being blow, forced? Again there are no wands to be seen. Where are they? They have cuts and bruises. Looks to be a more physical fight. Who are they fighting? The obvious answer is Voldemort but who is with him? Why is Ron wielding a sword? Is it special? The Godric Gryffindor Sword?

I might have to book my vacation around the July 21st release date for this one.