Competition Quotes in The Hunger Games

How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #7

This was no tribute's campfire gone out of control, no accidental occurrence. The flames that bear down on me have an unnatural height, a uniformity that marks them as human-made, machine-made, Gamemaker-made. Things have been too quiet today. No deaths, perhaps no fights at all. The audience in the Capitol will be getting bored, claiming that these Games are verging on dullness. This is the one thing the Games must not do. (13.4)

The Games are a reminder to the districts not to rebel against the government, but they are also – especially for the richer districts – a form of entertainment. Notice how the Gamemakers have to keep the plot exciting in order to keep their viewers happy.

Quote #8

"You know, they're not the only ones who can form alliances," I say.

For a moment, no response. The one of Rue's eyes edges around the trunk. "You want me for an ally?" (15.12-13)

Forming an alliance with Rue proves to be a good strategy in the competition for Katniss. Why?

Quote #9

Brutal, bloody Cato who can snap a neck with a twist of his arm, who had the power to overcome Thresh, who has had it out for me since the beginning. He probably has had a special hatred for me every since I outscored him in training. A boy like Peeta would simply shrug that off. But I have a feeling it drove Cato to distraction. Which is not that hard. I think of his ridiculous reaction to finding the supplies blown up. The others were upset, of course, but he was completely unhinged. I wonder now if Cato might not be entirely sane. (24.27)

Cato is Katniss's last hurdle to winning the competition. Why is Cato such a force to be reckoned with?