Finny and Gene as arguable ‘best friend’s, are rarely seen apart. Finny is behind his friend all the way. The friendship between them is in no way perfect but Finny needs gene more than he knows.While Finny only wants a friendly competitor, Gene sees a threat and, out of anger/ jealousy, breaks his leg.

When Leper enlists, he expects to be serenely exploring the landscape with new friends whilst mostly staying out of the fight. But the reality of the situation in front of him takes over and drove him mad. Mad enough to be discharged with a section eight.

After Finny finally accepts that Gene hurt him on purpose, Gene strives to repair the bond. Finny does not seem to be able to lose his grudge and goes so far as wanting to kill him. Gene never can recover from their fight after Finny damages himself  and unfortunately dies.

The changing of seasons at the Devon school represents these opposites as well. In the summer is when everybody shucks the rules and denies. when finny start the Super Suicide Society and breaks his leg. Everyone stands against what Devon Stands for. In the winter, everyone becomes tied down by the strict teachers and harsher guidelines. Finny also recovers from his injury and brings back joy.

Representing the peace, the Devon river was a popular place to hang out at the Devon school where it was clear, large, beautiful, and serene. Representing the Violence, the Naguamsett river is where the boys were forced into slave labor surrounded by dirty water and bad memories.