“In my mind, President Snow should be viewed in front of marble pillars hung with oversized flags. It's jarring to see him surrounded by the ordinary objects in the room. Like taking the lid off a pot and finding a fanged viper instead of stew.”
Explore This Quote Further
Quote Analysis
In this quote from Suzanne Collins' "The Hunger Games," the protagonist Katniss Everdeen reflects on the disconnect between President Snow's outward appearance and his true nature. The imagery of marble pillars and oversized flags evokes a sense of grandeur and power typically associated with political leaders. However, when President Snow is depicted among "ordinary objects," such as in a room, Katniss is struck by the unsettling contrast. The comparison to a "fanged viper instead of stew" highlights the unexpected and dangerous nature of Snow's presence. This quote effectively conveys the idea that appearances can be deceiving, and one should look beyond the surface to truly understand someone's character.
Modern Relevance
Suzanne Collins's description of President Snow as a wolf in sheep's clothing, or a viper in a pot of stew, highlights the discrepancy between a leader's public image and their true intentions. In today's world of social media and carefully crafted personas, it is more important than ever to be critical of the individuals in power and look beyond the polished facade they present to the public.
Description of President Snow
"In my mind, President Snow should be viewed in front of marble pillars hung with oversized flags. It's jarring to see him surrounded by the ordinary objects in the room. Like taking the lid off a pot and finding a fanged viper instead of stew.” - Suzanne Collins"
Reflection Questions:
As we consider this quote from Suzanne Collins' "The Hunger Games," we are prompted to reflect on the symbolism of President Snow being surrounded by ordinary objects instead of grandeur. Below are some reflection questions to consider:
- How does the juxtaposition of President Snow with ordinary objects contribute to his characterization as a manipulative and deceptive leader?
- What do you think the author is trying to convey about power and authority through this description?
- How does this quote add to the overall atmosphere and tone of the story?
- In what ways does this quote challenge traditional perceptions of leadership and power?
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“Katniss, I don't think President Snow will kill Peeta. If he does, he won't have any way to hurt you.""So, what do you think they'll do to him?" I ask."Whatever it takes to break you.”
“My name is Katniss Everdeen. I am seventeen years old. My home is District 12. There is no District 12. I am the Mockingjay. I brought down the Capitol. President Snow hates me. He killed my sister. Now I will kill him. And then the Hunger Games will be over....”
“Caesar Flickerman asks if the president has a date in mind. "Oh, before we set a date, we better clear it with Katniss's mother," says the president. The audience gives a big laugh and the president puts his arm around me. "Maybe if the whole country puts its mind to it, we can get you married before you're thirty." "You'll probably have to pass a new law," I say with a giggle. "If that's what it takes," says the president with conspiratorial good humor. Oh, the fun we two have together.”
“And we must fight back! President Snow says he's sending us a message? Well, I have one for him. You can torture us and bomb us and burn our districts to the ground, but do you see that? Fire is catching! And if we burn, you burn with us!”