Lovely Luna

As much as I love Hermione and Ginny, I'd have to say that Luna is my favorite of the female Hogwarts students. So off-beat and contented despite the odd glances she always fetches, she's a marvelous character shimmering with ethereality yet possessing an uncanny ability to cut to the heart of matters, as when she immediately recognizes Harry at the wedding despite his completely altered outward appearance. Re-reading the last couple of books and observing Hermione's demeanor at the Lovegood home, I was forcefully reminded of LOST's man of science / man of faith debate. Both perspectives are needed, but stepping into Luna's way of viewing the world is especially refreshing.

Lovely Luna

Luna, like your father, glowing
In your lucky yellow robes,
You're a sight despite foregoing
Plums to dangle from your lobes.

Trust your eyes, which pierce so keenly
You've no need of Spectrespecs.
As you watch the world, serenely
Make remarks no ear expects.

Turn and greet the kind companions
You have painted on your wall.
Think of them when faced with canyons
Of despair, and you won't fall.

They will think of you here dancing,
Blissful as a summer breeze
Though the enemy's advancing
Like the autumn through the trees.

Long before Gernumblies bit you,
You were gifted, artful one.
Blessed inspiration's lit you,
Soft as moonlight, bright as sun.

Daughter of the misty twilight,
Fair and graceful to behold,
You're a treasure. No mere pyrite,
Luna Lovegood, you are gold.

Exhortation

I am deeply moved by the role Draco played in the final stages of Deathly Hallows. I was sure he would be important, but I did not expect that Harry's opportunity to face Voldemort on even footing would hinge on Narcissa's concern for her son, on Narcissa actually sparing Harry's life and risking the destruction of Voldemort. Of course, by that time, I think all three Malfoys had a pretty good idea that if he rose to the height of power, it wouldn't turn out to be such a good thing for them. But I still think what Narcissa did was brave and noble, and her husband followed closely behind her. What happened to them next? It's hard to say, but for that beautiful moment from an unexpected source, I am grateful.


Exhortation

You hear the rapid heartbeat of the boy who you despise.
Narcissa, time to make a crucial choice.
Will you deceive Lord Voldemort, who trapped you with his lies?
Can you conceal your tremulous, soft voice?

And Lucius, standing by, no longer arrogant and calm,
You echo Arthur, frightened of his fate.
No power grimly promised you will ever be a balm
If Draco dies, if you arrive too late.

Lay down the wands you wielded for a master who betrayed.
Lay down your dark allegiances and run,
Allowing your devotion and your love to be displayed.
Lay down your hatred; go and find your son.