Every reader might interpret the meaning of friendship in A Separate Peacedifferently based on personal experiences; however, one thing is for sure, and it might be trite, but nothing really is as it seems. Friendship might not be exactly what a person perceives it to be. For example, chapter 4 reveals the fact that both Finny and Gene perceive each other differently than what is really going on. Gene thinks Finny doesn't work hard...
Every reader might interpret the meaning of friendship in A Separate Peace differently based on personal experiences; however, one thing is for sure, and it might be trite, but nothing really is as it seems. Friendship might not be exactly what a person perceives it to be. For example, chapter 4 reveals the fact that both Finny and Gene perceive each other differently than what is really going on. Gene thinks Finny doesn't work hard at anything social or athletic and Finny thinks Gene doesn't need to study to get good grades. They also discover that their friendship might have selfish qualities from which each boy benefits to a certain degree.
Another fact about friendship is that it can be one-sided at times. For instance, Leper considers Gene to be his best friend, whereas Gene doesn't much care for the guy. Leper's claim that Gene is his best friend is explicitly seen when he writes:
"I have escaped and need help. I am at Christmas location. You understand. No need to risk address here. My safety depends on you coming at once. (signed) your best friend, Elwin Leper Lepellier"(137).
Gene has sympathy for him. He may even pity the guy because he reminds him of qualities that he sees in himself. Sadly, Gene is not mature enough, or committed enough to the friendship, to listen to Leper explain his mental breakdown at bootcamp. In fact, Gene can't stand listening to Leper and leaves him in the middle of his story. Summarily, friendship can be different than the participants may believe and some friendships can one-sided.
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