Interface; Potter and Company

Most of last week was given over to trying to implement a new software interface package. This software allows users to enter information directly into pages in a web site.

The WYSIWYG software is very powerful, and you could easily wander around in it for months and not tap all the features. BUT there is in actuality no such thing as WYSIWYG. It's more along the lines of WYSIWY might get on a really good day but don't bet on it.

The interface permits individuals to manage certain pages of the web site. Patterns on each page determine what can and can not be edited. But this is all to no avail without the appropriate network rights to the appropriate pages.

Everytime I think I've covered everything, something else pops up. Very frustrating!

This effort is darker than the first two. The visual tone has more blacks, and browns and grays. But it matches the story which is more complex.

There were several scenes that I especially enjoyed.

The train to Hogwarts steaming along, rain snarling and lashing at the coaches. This is followed by an inside view of Harry and friends next to rain-streaked and fog-licked windows.

Harry and his mates larking about in their bedroom.

Professor Lupin's lab with its floating brass spheres.

A Quidditch match in what appears to be a massive thunderstorm.

The ending is as good as a Christie thriller in unveiling the meaning of odd events.

My admiration for J. K. Rowling is immense. I would love to know how she derives the plot. Does it just come to her? Are there charts and graphs? Does she plant clues in one book knowing she will use them later in another book?

PAX!