I've seen similar comments from a number of writers, actually.
Harry's basic character descripton is the same as Tim's, and the appearances make them dead ringers, so it's essentially impossible to believe any protestations that she wasn't at least familiar with the character. But, as you said, she made it a completely different and developed world. Still, Harry is enough like Tim that, had he wanted to, Gaiman likely could have ended Rowling's career right after he started. But part of why he has as much respect as he does is that he's not that type of guy.
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branchandroot
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Date: 2007-09-16 12:20 am (UTC)Harry's basic character descripton is the same as Tim's, and the appearances make them dead ringers, so it's essentially impossible to believe any protestations that she wasn't at least familiar with the character. But, as you said, she made it a completely different and developed world. Still, Harry is enough like Tim that, had he wanted to, Gaiman likely could have ended Rowling's career right after he started. But part of why he has as much respect as he does is that he's not that type of guy.