Appearance versus reality

The novel The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins presents the theme of appearance versus reality by looking at the way the people of the Capitol mask the cruelty and suffering of the Games to turn it into entertainment. 

The styling team, along with Effie and Haymitch, go to great lengths to help Katniss and Peeta portray a specific image. For example, Haymitch helps Peeta present the idea of the star-crossed lovers of District 12 to the audience. 

When Katniss argues that this front does not reflect reality, Haymitch reminds her that this does not matter: 

‘Who cares? It’s all a big show. It’s all how you’re perceived. The most I could say about you after your interview is that you were nice enough, although that in itself was a small miracle. Now I can say yo...