Throughout the original trilogy, Collins explores the theme: Power is Inherently Corrupting; which she continues to do in Ballad. The novel begins with Coriolanus taking every precaution to hide that his once rich and powerful family is falling into destitution. Although his position among the elite is only an illusion, Snow proves he is willing to do anything to advance in the Capitol’s hierarchy. Nothing will stand in his way of becoming president. Coriolanus is a truly unlikeable character. Every glimmer of humanity is immediately followed with a show of his true narcissistic nature. It is when he is at rock-bottom, having been shipped off to District 12 as punishment for cheating in the Games, that he is his most human. His friendship with Sejanus is more authentic and less one-sided. He has a real romantic connection with Lucy. He betrays his best friend to stay in the good graces of the Capitol. The instant he gets the opportunity to destroy the evidence of his crimes, he abandons his plans to run away with Lucy, effectively throwing away their relationship. Back on track for his future presidency with the prestigious Gamemaker internship, Coriolanus vows never to care for another person again. He fully rejects the last vestiges of his humanity as he returns to a position of power. 

1. Were the bombs in the Arena really planted by the rebels or was it a false-flag? 

2. The barbaric conditions of the 10th Hunger Games are markedly different than the celebrity treatment given to the tributes by the 74th Games. Are these improvements attributable to Snow? 

3. Is Coriolanus a psychopath incapable of human emotions? Does he actually care about Lucy & Sejanus or is he only using them for his own advancement? 

4. Does Lucy die in the end? 

5. Is human nature essentially good and people are only corrupted by “the world” or is humanity essentially barbaric and requires strict laws to remain civilized?