When I first started doing the hangman game over at rowling's site, I thought hallows was gallows, and it sent shivers up my spine. When I found that it wasn't gallows, I felt a little disappointed.

I think Jo chose this type of title because the big question on everyone's mind is whether Harry is going to live or die. It was almost obligatory for her to choose a title that has death in it, and one that is very cryptic.