Now that Catching Fire’s premiere is only a week away, many of us have started reading or re-reading the novel in preparation.

None of us expect a direct book-to-film translation. Even the most conservative book purists know that’s not going to happen.

However, there are several Catching Fire quotes in the book by Suzanne Collins that absolutely, positively need to be in the movie.

‘For me, it’s better to wake up with a paintbrush than a knife in my hand.’

When we return to the world of the Hunger Games, this is where we find our victors. They’re simply existing and trying to come to terms with the pain and trauma they experienced within the games. Coping is about all they can do at this moment, and Peeta is one of the few who understands the importance of the healing process.

‘Want a sugar cube?’

Finnick’s very first words to Katniss have a honey sweet charm that’s hard to resist. And he sure knows it, too. But that’s what we love about this character. Interestingly though, Katinss knows immediately that she’s going to have her hands full with this guy, but as time comes to pass, it’s not in the way she originally expected.

‘Tick, tock.’

Anyone who has read Catching Fire will know just how ominous this quote actually is. It seems quite innocent on paper, but as the story unfolds on screen, it’ll be revealed just how powerful this one little phrase is. It should have an interesting presence within the movie, and watching Wiress’ performance is something to look forward to.

‘Remember, girl on fire, I’m still betting on you.’

No. Nope. No thanks. You can take it back now. Because this moment is going to be hell to watch on screen. We won’t tell you the series of events that are to follow this quote but… Let’s just say that if you’ve read the books, you know to bring tissues along.

‘I wish I could freeze this moment, right here, right now, and live in it forever.’

Any respectable Hunger Games fan will adamantly stress that the series is about so much more than young love — a truth that the larger media outlets like to overlook. But none of us can deny that it does contain a very sincere and honest portrayal of love. And in this moment, Peeta confesses a very sweet desire to stay sheltered with someone he loves. If this scene makes it to the big screen, good luck keeping your heart from fluttering.

‘They can’t hurt me. I’m not like the rest of you. There’s no one left I love.’

Hey guys. Be prepared for this one. Because it’s the moment we’re all going to fall completely in love with Johanna. Or at the very least we’ll be overcome with a surge of empathy for this character that will feel overwhelming. It’s unknown how much of a presence this character is going to have within the movie, but her compelling arc should guarantee her at least a few moments to shine.

‘Not like this. He wanted it to be real.’

We all know that Haymitch isn’t the most lucid of characters, but it’s comments like this that make us realize just how aware he actually is. And that’s why he so frequently reaches for the drink, to avoid that awareness, that insight into other people’s suffering.

‘Chink in the armor, as it were.’

Hmm… A chink in the armor, you say? Every person, place, or thing has one – if you’re willing to look close enough. And this piece of information seems to stick with Katniss for quite some time. It’s a lesson learned and one that may be of value later in life.

‘It must be very fragile, if a handful of berries can bring it down.’

This. This right here is why we all love Katiness Everdeen, right? Not only is it her sharp and witty tongue, but also her intuitive understanding of larger elements at play. She gets it. She knows that her one act of defiance is spreading like wildfire and it has sparked something in the people that will be difficult to contain. With this single remark she’s thumbing her nose at the Capitol, President Snow, and anyone thinking she doesn’t have the courage to speak up.

‘Katniss, there is no District 12.’

Yeah we’re going to try and keep this as spoiler free as possible. But even with no context, that line kinda just makes the bottom of your stomach drop, doesn’t it? Suzanne Collins sure knows how to write a cliffhanger, and if those movie producers are evil smart, they’re going to play into that big time. Have fun waiting for Mockingjay, guys!

What quotes do you want to see in the movie?

Editors note: We published our Catching Fire review earlier this week and specifically note several lines that were pulled straight from the book.