Lucy Gray to Katniss Everdeen — What’s the Link?
A look at “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” and a theory (contains spoilers)
When visiting President Snow’s past, it would be logical to assume that Suzanne Collins was heading directly to a classical trope. But eighteen-year-old Coriolanus Snow is not a sweet innocent kid. There are no extenuating circumstances that force Snow to become a ruthless President. It is to her credit that Collins never tried to frame Snow as a hero or a victim. Snow’s sadistic nature is purely a product of privileged entitlement.
Even from the start, Snow evokes no sympathy. He is entitled and indulgent. Yes, he has his own sob story, but it hasn’t broken him. Instead, it’s shaped him into a player. People only have value to Snow if there is a benefit to him. Snow’s nature is particularly evident in his relationship with Lucy Gray, the tribute from District 12.
As Lucy Gray’s mentor, Snow appears to be her champion. But the reality is that Snow understands that Lucy Gray’s charm is the key that will enable him to win the Prize.
“Snow lands on top.”
It takes great skill as a writer to present an unlikeable character and hold a reader’s attention. And despite his lack of charm, Snow is a fascinating character. He is a schemer, a…
