Re-read the last paragraph on page 48 (end of chapter 3). What happens here? Why is important? Why doesn’t Gene respond? What do you think holds him back? What is the “truth” he refers to at the very end of the quote? Mitch

At the end of chapter three, the importance of Finny and Genes relationship is shown. In the chapter they have found themselves at a pool where Finny had broken a school record. Shortly after he had broken the record he said "Oh my God, So I really did it" (Knowles 43).  Then Gene had found himself in a tree, with Finny. Gene falls and Finny nearly catches him, saving his life.

At the end of chapter 3 (Knowles 48) we find out that Finny looks at Gene as his best friend. At the Devon school this was close to "suicide" and Gene was shocked. Gene was shocked that it was said at the school, and that it was also said by Finny, someone Gene looks up to. Unfortunately, Gene did not feel the same way, causing him not to respond. The "truth" he refers to at the end of the story is that he does not feel the same way about Gene (Knowles 48). This will soon create an awkwardness between these friends. Gene feels this way because of all the trouble Finny has put him through.