The Hunger Games: Who wins the Hunger Games in 'The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes'?

In 'The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes', the winner of the Hunger Games is Lucy Gray Baird. As the female tribute from District 12, Lucy Gray captivates the Capitol with her musical talent and rebellious nature. Throughout the games, she manages to evade capture and stay hidden, ultimately outlasting the other tributes.While Lucy Gray's victory in the games is a significant event in the story, it is not the sole focus of the narrative. The book primarily explores the character development of Coriolanus Snow, who later becomes President Snow, the main antagonist in the original Hunger Games trilogy. As Snow mentors Lucy Gray, he experiences a complex range of emotions, from manipulation and selfishness to empathy and love.Lucy Gray's win not only highlights her resilience and resourcefulness but also serves as a turning point for Snow. Witnessing her ability to survive in the face of adversity challenges Snow's preconceived notions about the Districts and the Capitol's oppressive regime. It sparks a glimmer of humanity in him, causing him to question his loyalty to the Capitol and the values he was raised with.However, the aftermath of the games brings a series of unfortunate events. Snow is implicated in aiding Lucy Gray during the games, leading to him becoming a Peacekeeper in District 12. Lucy Gray, while reunited with Snow temporarily, decides to leave for the North, a place outside of Panem's control. Snow reluctantly joins her, conflicted between his growing feelings for Lucy and his desire to secure his family's honor.During their journey, Snow's internal struggle intensifies, and he contemplates betraying Lucy Gray. In a moment of ambiguity, Snow shoots into the forest, hoping to hit her. The outcome remains uncertain, leaving Snow grappling with guilt and regrets.The book ends with Snow returning to District 12, where he is transported back to the Capitol. He accepts his position as an officer and continues his ascent to power, ultimately becoming the tyrannical President Snow. Lucy Gray's fate remains unknown, with no further sightings of her in Panem.Overall, 'The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes' showcases Lucy Gray Baird as the winner of the Hunger Games and her impact on the young Coriolanus Snow's transformation into the cold-hearted leader of Panem. Through their complex relationship, the novel sheds light on the origins of the dystopian regime and the seeds of rebellion that had already started to grow within Snow's consciousness.