Rowling is a luminous storyteller. I love her sense of humor and the intricate wizarding world she built around Hogwarts. I think all writers aspire to be like her, to capture readers like she does. But I didn't think about 'Harry Potter' when I wrote 'The Bone Season.'

In this quote, Samantha Shannon expresses her admiration for J.K. Rowling as a storyteller, highlighting her ability to weave a luminous and captivating narrative. Shannon praises Rowling's sense of humor and the intricate wizarding world she created in the Harry Potter series, particularly the magical setting of Hogwarts. This admiration speaks to how Rowling’s world-building has influenced and inspired writers across genres, creating a benchmark for storytelling that captures the imagination of readers worldwide.

Shannon acknowledges that many writers, herself included, likely aspire to reach the level of engagement and success that Rowling has achieved. The quote suggests that Rowling’s influence on contemporary writers is undeniable, especially for those who create complex, immersive worlds. However, Shannon clarifies that despite the profound respect she has for Rowling's work, she did not consciously draw from Harry Potter when writing her own book, The Bone Season.

By saying, "I didn't think about 'Harry Potter' when I wrote The Bone Season," Shannon is emphasizing that while she may admire Rowling’s work, her creative process for The Bone Season was independent. Shannon’s book, which involves its own complex world-building and fantasy elements, was not directly inspired by the Harry Potter series. Instead, her focus was on crafting a unique world and storyline, even if the shared genre of fantasy or speculative fiction might overlap.

Ultimately, Shannon's quote reflects her respect for Rowling's achievements and her own desire to carve out her own space as a writer. While inspired by the impact of Rowling’s storytelling, Shannon wanted to create something original, reflecting her personal creative voice and vision for the Bone Season series.