Language

Style of language

The style of language of the novel The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is mostly informal and conversational. Katniss narrates the story using simple, easy to understand language which reflects her unrestricted train of thought. The sentences generally use a simple structure and are easy to follow. 

The dialogue is also casual and informal and flows naturally: 

‘So help us,’ I say. ‘When we get to the arena, what’s the best strategy at the Cornucopia for someone –’
‘One thing at a time. In a few minutes, we’ll be pulling into the station. You’ll be put in the hands of your stylists. You’re not going to like what they do to you. But no matter what it is, don’t resist,’ says Haymitch. 
‘But –’ I begin. 
‘No buts. Don’t resist,’ says Haymitch. (Chapter 4, 87%)

This exchange shows the natural flow of conversation, allowing for pauses and interruptions. 

Jargon 

Because The Hunger Games is set in a futuristic society, the novel includes a lot of jargon that refers to things specific to the world the story takes place in. 

Some of these words refer to people’s occupations. For example, Katniss uses the words Career tributes or just Careers to refer to the powerful tributes from the wealthy districts who train for the Hunger Games and volunteer to take part so they can have a shot at the glory of becoming the winner. Gamemakers refers to the people who design the arena for the Hunger Games each year and control the events that take place in the arena, adding natural disasters or specially engineered creatures to create drama. Lastly, Peacekeepers are the law enforcement officers in Panem, similar to the police or the military. 

There are also specific words...