Which major Harry Potter chapter was the hardest for J.K. Rowling?

J.K. Rowling didn’t find writing the Harry Potter novels easy. In fact, she says that one chapter almost finished her.

When it comes to writing, good authors know all about rewrites. And that traumatic experience of some rewrites. They can end up taking up more time than coming up with the ideas in the first place. In fact, there are times that the rewrites become nothing like they originally were. J.K. Rowling is no stranger to rewrites and a particular chapter in “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” nearly became her undoing.

When one writer on Twitter shared she was struggling with her on rewrites, Rowling offered a little insight into her own experience. Chapter 9 was the killer and aptly named “The Dark Mark.” It was the one Rowling says she rewrote more than she can remember and it “almost finished me.” However, it has become one of those favorite chapters for fans, as it delves more into the darker world of the wizarding war. It was clearly worth the work.

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Chapter 9 of “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” is the one where Harry, Hermione, Ron, and the rest of the Weasleys are at the Quidditch World Cup. Shortly after Ireland wins, Death Eaters attack and destroy the place. One, in particular, is Barty Crouch Jr., who is played by David Tennant in the movies. This is Harry’s first introduction to the Dark Mark and what the world was like during the First Wizarding War.

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This is a chapter with plenty of action, as the Death Eaters come into the series with focus and passion. Then there is also the buildup of the return of Voldemort and Harry’s first up-close experience of Death Eaters and the Dark Mark.

Rowling then continued her words of wisdom to another fan, who called her work flawless. She doesn’t think it is, but then she doesn’t think flawless is possible. Perfection really shouldn’t be a goal because it’s not possible. You just do the best you can.

What did you think about “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” Chapter 9? Are you surprised this required a lot of rewrites? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Next: J.K. Rowling part of top 100 essential books by female authors

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