Admiration Quote by Suzanne Collins
““To the everlasting credit of the people of District 12, not one person claps. Not even the ones holding betting slips, the ones who are usually beyond caring. Possibly because they know me from the Hob, or knew my father, or have encountered Prim, who no one can help loving. So instead of acknowledging applause, I stand there unmoving while they take part in the boldest from of dissent they can manage. Silence. Which says we do not agree. We do not condone. All of this is wrong. Then something unexpected happens. At least, I don't expect it because I don't think of District 12 as a place that cares about me. But a shift has occurred since I stepped up to take Prim's place, and now it seems I have become someone precious. At first one, then another, then almost every member of the crowd touches the three middle fingers of their left hand to their lips and holds it out to me. It is an old and rarely used gesture of our district, occasionally seen at funerals. It means thanks, it means admiration, it means good-bye to someone you love.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins, 2008
The crowd’s silent gesture replaces applause, showing complex respect and grief for the protagonist’s sacrifice.
In simple terms: Silent gestures can convey deep respect.
Key Takeaway
Recognize non‑verbal expressions of gratitude.
Themes
respect
grief
solidarity
silence
Mood
thoughtful
somber
Type
cultural
emotional
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- rituals
- political protest
- community gatherings
Key Concepts
cultural symbolism
social dynamics
empathy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you interpret silent gestures?
- When is silence more powerful than applause?
A Different Perspective
Silence can be misinterpreted as indifference, limiting clear communication.
![“All the shows we did pre-airdate, and I'd come out - "Rob Lowe!" - and it was [Offers bored applause.] After the show aired? I came out - "Rob Lowe!" - and the place was, like, bedlam. And then the next week, they wouldn't let anyone under the age of 20 into the audience. And I'm going, "So that's…” quote by Rob Lowe](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/66b/rob-lowe-855_age_all-the-shows-we-did-pre-airdate-and-i-d_31307.jpg)
