Literary Analysis

In the novel A Separate Peace by John Knowles, friendship is a major but complicated theme. This idea is expressed through the relationship between two boarding school boys, Gene and Finny. As narrator, Gene does not always correctly understand or trust his friend, and this becomes an important part of the plot in displaying the joys and tragedies that can accompany a friendship. Friendship as a theme is used throughout the book in weaving the plot.

In the story, Gene and Finny share a complex friendship. Gene does not quite know what to think or believe of Finny; therefore, he has a mixture of emotions toward Finny at different times, ranging from admiration and pleasure, to annoyance and doubt. At points, Gene feels envious of Finny's effortless skill and ability. For instance, he feels this way when Finny gets away with wearing a...