Question #3: On pages 52-54 how does Gene's view of their relationship change? What does he think of it? How do you know this? Why does he feel this way? Do you think it is accurate? Why or why not?
Throughout the book, Gene and Finny's relationship changes rapidly, one comment, question or moment changing the fate of the entire friendship. On pages 52-54, Gene starts to think about and reflect on how Finny has been affecting him, how he feels about Finny and recent events that have occurred. Gene goes on thinking to himself where he stood as a student, athletically and ends up comparing himself to Phineas. He eventually finds truth with how he really felt about Phineas beating the school record when he thinks to himself, "You did hate him for breaking that school swimming record, but so what?(Knowles 53)" Gene starts to feel new emotions towards Finny and their friendship. He quickly realizes how jealous he is of Finny's popularity, easy attitude and natural skill towards all sports. Gene starts to take the competition he feels towards Phineas as a threat and explains his new strategy when he says, "The new attacks of studying were his emergency measures to save himself. I redoubled my effort. (Knowles 55)" Gene takes his jealousy and envy towards Finny to motivate himself to work harder. Although I believe competition is good for motivation in moderation Gene takes it overboard and a concerning level when he tries to become "even" with his best friend. He feels so threatened by Phineas it eats him up inside making him eventually snap at Gene.
How has Phineas reacted to Gene's new study habits?
Why do you think Gene feels threatened by Phineas?
Is the jealousy and competition good for their friendship?
Has the new competitive drive positively or negatively affected their friendship?
Do you think Finny knows about Gene's plan? Does he know how Gene feels? Do they have similar feelings?
Did Finny try to beat the record to show off? Why do you think he wanted to keep the new record a secret?
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