A Greek poet, Sophocles, states that, “We will never reach a full realization of who we are as individuals until we find another human being with whom we can share ourselves.” "A Separate Peace" demonstrates this quote through the actions of two best friends, Gene and Finny. Through the course of the book, Gene harbors feelings of jealousy, admiration, and resentment toward Finny, especially Finny’s attitude, and accomplishments. Gene’s jealousy and self loathing nature sparks an internal conflict that is resolved through ultimately, the death of Phineas. Finny embodied characteristics and abilities Gene longed to see in himself. In the beginning of the novel, it can be argued that Finny’s athletic abilities and accomplishments was the root of resentment Gene felt. Although it was a factor, and was what Gene believed was the source of the negative feelings he felt toward Finny, as one progresses deeper in the book, it is evident Gene isn’t really jealous of Finny’s athletic ability, he is jealous of the world Finny lives in. One filled with youth, sincerity and niceness. John Knowles makes their relationship, in the beginning, almost like one two brothers would share. There was playful competition and some jealousy which was common to see in brothers. The reader will see Gene’s playful jealousy turn into a dangerous game that results in death. "It was hypnotism. I was beginning to see that Phineas could get away with anything. I couldn't help envying him that a little, which was perfectly normal. There was no harm in envying even your best friend a little”(25). At this point, Finny is romancing the principal to avoid trouble for wearing a pink shirt. Witnessing Finny’s ability to talk himself out of any bad situation sparks jealousy within Gene. Gene seems to justify his obvious jealousy and tends to brush it off like its nothing. A few moments later, a switch in emotions is evident. “This time he wasn't going