Is there any textual evidence that this death in Deathly Hallows symbolized the end of childhood?

Question

In the beginning of *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*, we see that Hedwig is killed by the Avada Kedavra curse. >"No - HEDWIG!" The broomstick spun to earth, but he just managed to seize the strap of his rucksack and the top of the cage as the motorbike swung the right way up again. A second's relief, and then another burst of green light. The owl screeched and fell to the bottom of the cage. "No - NO!" _{*Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*, chapter 4} J. K. Rowling has [stated](https://twitter.com/jk_rowling/status/686281035135475713) that this symbolizes the death of childhood. However, is this supported by anything in the books? Is there anything to assume that this is representative of the death of childhood, and not just a random death?

Answer 1

I would also add more generally that a lot of writers use the death of an innocent to represent the death of innocence itself.

Answer 2

According to the author, Hedwig represented the last of Harry's childhood. He found her name from one of his schoolbooks. Ron and Hermione both had grown up, and this supposedly caused Harry to become an adult, except for his pet owl. With the death of Hedwig, his schooldays and childhood were over along with his innocence.

Twinkletoes*: "Why did you feel that Hedwig's death was necessary?"

J.K. Rowling: "The loss of Hedwig represented a loss of innocence and security. She has been almost like a cuddly toy to Harry at times. Voldemort killing her marked the end of childhood. I’m sorry… I know that death upset a LOT of people!"