Assignment 7 Max Dowden

1.) Explore the dynamics and undertones of Finny and Gene’s first conversations upon his return. Does it feel “realistic” to you? Why or why not?

The conversation Finny has with Gene on his immediate return to Devon tells a lot about the underlying emotions of each of the characters. Finny acts really excited to be back, as is evident in his conversations. He sets about poking fun at Gene, whether it be his clothes or the sheets. Gene on the other hand, does not seem so excited for Finny's return. "Until now, in spite of everything, I had welcomed each new day as though it were a new life, where all past failures and problems were erased, and all future possibilities and joys open and available, to be achieved probably before night fell again." (Knowles 105). This is Genes mindset while Finny is gone. He's independent, and ready to take on anything. But after Finny's return "Now, in this winter of snow and crutches with Phineas, I began to know that each morning reasserted the problems of the night before," (Knowles 105-106). This shows that Gene was doing fine without Finny, and return could bring back some of the problems that drove him to Push Phineas off the tree.