Growing up in the Seam, Haymitch learned quickly that charm and wit were currencies as valuable as coin. He became fast friends with the musical Covey family, particularly the Baird sisters, finding an escape from the grim reality of the district in their company. His brief, intense romance with Lenore Dove ended badly, earning him the lasting ire of her protective uncle, Clerk Clermine, and his boyfriend. This has made him officially unwelcome in the Meadow, a rule he delights in breaking.