One example of symbolism John Knowles' A Seprate Peace is from page one. As Gene visits Devon School, he finds it looking oddly newer than when he was a student there fifteen years before. Gene notices that the school has been varnished very well. He says "I didn't entirely like this glossy new surface..."(1). The word Glossy can be defined as having a smooth, shiny, mirror-like appearance. Gene does not like this glossy surface because the surface reflects an image of his life as it used to be fifteen years ago. A friendship torn by lies, an attempt to end a friend's life, deep and bitter rivalry, and even broken bones and promises echo in this glossy surface. These echos allow Gene to reflect on himself and his past mistakes, leaving him regretful. The surface showed a reflection of a boy who would do anything to be on...