Severus & The Boy-Who-Lived: Why "Snape Picks Up Harry" Fanfiction Endures

18 Apr 2024

Imagine a world where Harry Potter's first glimpse into the magical world wasn't with the bumbling, well-meaning Hagrid, but with the severe, imposing figure of Severus Snape. This is the premise that has captivated fanfiction writers and readers for years, spawning countless stories under the banner of "Snape picks up Harry." But why does this particular trope hold such enduring fascination within the Harry Potter fandom?

The "Snape picks up Harry" trope usually throws the two characters together early on, often replacing Hagrid's role in Harry's introduction to the wizarding world. This set-up immediately throws the reader into a world of possibilities. Will Snape, infamous for his disdain for Harry's father, be a harsh guardian or find himself reluctantly caring for the boy? Will Harry, starved for affection, find solace in Snape's gruff exterior?

This trope taps into a desire for deeper exploration of characters whose relationships in the original books are defined by conflict and unresolved tension. Severus Snape, revealed in the final book to be a complex figure driven by a love for Lily Potter, becomes a canvas for exploring themes of redemption, second chances, and the blurry lines between love and hate.

Furthermore, the "Snape picks up Harry" trope often serves as a launchpad for various storylines. It can be woven into AUs (alternate universes) where Harry's life takes a drastically different path, from being raised in a magically aware environment to navigating the complexities of having a former Death Eater as a guardian. The possibilities are as vast as the imaginations of the fanfiction writers.

One of the key appeals of this trope is its potential for character development. Snape, forced to confront his past and his feelings for Lily through caring for Harry, can undergo a compelling transformation. Similarly, Harry, no longer under the Dursleys' thumb and exposed to Snape's perspective, can develop a different understanding of the wizarding world and his own place in it.

While "Snape picks up Harry" might seem like a simple premise, it opens a Pandora's box of narrative possibilities within the Harry Potter universe. It allows for a deeper exploration of complex characters, offers opportunities for challenging the canon storyline, and gives readers a chance to reimagine the beloved series through a different lens. This exploration of alternate possibilities, fueled by the strong emotional core of the Harry Potter series, ensures that this trope will continue to resonate with readers for years to come.

Advantages and Disadvantages of "Snape Picks Up Harry" Fanfiction

Advantages	Disadvantages
Explores complex character dynamics	Can romanticize unhealthy relationships
Offers fresh perspectives on canon events	May require significant deviations from canon
Provides opportunities for character growth and redemption	Balancing Snape's characterization can be challenging

Common Questions about "Snape Picks Up Harry" Fanfiction

1. Is this trope always about romance? Not necessarily. While some stories explore a romantic relationship between Snape and Harry, many focus on familial bonds, mentorship, or platonic love.

2. Are these stories usually dark? The tone can vary widely. Some stories are darker, exploring themes of trauma and healing, while others are lighthearted and humorous.

3. Where can I find this type of fanfiction? Websites like Archive of Our Own (AO3) and FanFiction.net host a vast collection of Harry Potter fanfiction, including numerous stories within the "Snape picks up Harry" trope.

From reimagining childhoods to exploring the complexities of redemption, "Snape picks up Harry" fanfiction offers a captivating glimpse into a world slightly askew from the one J.K. Rowling created. It’s a testament to the power of fanfiction to dissect, analyze, and ultimately, rewrite our favorite stories in ways that resonate deeply with us. So, if you're looking for a fresh perspective on the wizarding world and the ever-intriguing Severus Snape, this trope might be the perfect rabbit hole to dive into.