Explain some important quotes in the book The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins.

"You're all they're talking about.  The
star-crossed lovers from District Twelve!" (135)

Haymitch knows that Katniss and
Peeta have more of an advantage in the Games together, than apart.  Collins alludes to
Romeo and Juliet, comparing Peeta and Katniss to the more famous pair of lovers doomed
to tragedy.  Although she's not aware of Shakespeare's play, Katniss reflects on the
challenge of playing an ill-fated lover throughout the rest of the
novel. 

"I don't want them to change me in
there.  Turn me into some kind of monster that I'm not"
(141).

Peeta says this to Katniss on the eve
of the games.  This quote represents the theme of choice throughout the novel,
reinforcing the idea that the characters are thrown into horrible circumstances like the
Games, but their personal choices in how they react define their
humanity.

"Destroying things is much easier
than making them."

Katniss says this to Rue
about destroying the Careers' food stash, but the quote is emblematic for the entire
novel. The Capitol's casual use of violence is a prominent theme throughout The Hunger
Games, and Katniss knows she must play along in order to survive the Games.  She
unwillingly accepts her situation and the imperative for violence, but uses it to her
advantage.