Understanding The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes: A Prequel to The Hunger Games

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, the upcoming sequel to the Hunger Games series, is a prequel that takes us back to the very beginnings of Panem. Unlike the events of Katniss and Peeta's journey in the 74th Hunger Games, this book focuses on the 10th Hunger Games, providing fans with a deep dive into the characters and events that shaped the world of The Hunger Games trilogy.

Why is The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes a Prequel?

The key to understanding why The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes is considered a prequel lies in its temporal setting. Unlike the main trilogy which unfolds just after the 74th Hunger Games, this book is set 64 years earlier. It centers on the protagonist, Coriolanus Snow, and his rise to power, as well as the background of the 10th Hunger Games.

The book is not a continuation of the events leading up to the 74th Hunger Games, which followers of the series know well. Instead, it provides a backstory that includes:

The origin of Coriolanus Snow's ruthlessness and tyranny. The suppression of District 13. The story of the first winner from District 12.

These are all elements that set the stage for the main series, thus making it a prequel and not a sequel. A sequel would delve into the children of Katniss and Peeta, which would be a different narrative altogether.

The Plot and Key Characters

The plot of The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes revolves around young Coriolanus Snow's preparations for the 10th Hunger Games. Snow is assigned a challenging task: to mentor the tribute from District 12, Lucy Grey, who is described as "the lowest of the lows." The story weaves a complex web of intrigue, ambition, and competition, as Snow navigates the dangerous game he must play to survive and thrive.

During the 10th Hunger Games, Snow's character undergoes transformations. He starts to form connections with his tribute, Lucy, and must grapple with moral dilemmas. The book provides an in-depth look at the dynamics within the Capitol and the relationship between the elite Snow family and the poorer districts.

The narrative is crafted to build suspense and tension, mirroring the classic Hunger Games atmosphere. Yet, the 1st person perspective is not employed in this book. Instead, the story is told in third person, offering a broader and more nuanced view of the events and characters involved.

A Look into Suzanne Collins' Approach

Writer Suzanne Collins, known for her 1st person writing in The Hunger Games, decided to take on a different approach with The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. Her choice to shift to third person provides a fresh take on the story and allows for a more comprehensive exploration of the world and characters.

The first series was told from the perspective of Katniss, the protagonist who could directly communicate her emotions and thoughts. However, by dividing the narrative into two parts, Suzanne Collins allows readers to experience the story from different vantage points. This dual perspective adds depth to the characters and the narrative.

The overriding theme of the book is the exploration of power, ambition, and the cost of survival. It delves into how these factors shape individuals and societies. The narrative is compelling and provides a rich backstory that enhances the overall experience of the Hunger Games universe.

Conclusion

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes is a significant addition to the Hunger Games series. It serves as a prequel that provides a deeper understanding of the world and characters that we know and love. As fans eagerly await the publication date of May 19, 2020, they can look forward to a different, yet equally thrilling, read that sets the stage for the main events of Katniss' and Peeta's Hunger Games.

Stay tuned for more updates and insights into this fascinating and pivotal novel in the Hunger Games series.