A Separate Peace: Physical and Mental Parallels to an Endless War World War II is one of the most famous historical events and also contributes to the theme of war in the novel A Separate Peace by John Knowles which focuses on that time period. To emphasize this main theme, Knowles uses techniques such as parallel physical and mental situations and contrasting characters. For example, readers learn that many of the physical activities performed by the boys at Devon's school bear references to the war. Furthermore, a more serious side of the war is demonstrated by focusing on the war in one's mind. Finally, a minor character serves to demonstrate the mental and physical side of war and how it can affect a person. War is not only based on physical strength, but also on mental stability. Gene Forrester, the narrator of the novel, remembers the past and how he and the rest of the boys at Devon's school spent their days. Phineas is "the best jock in school" according to Gene (Knowles 16) and takes it upon himself to create some physical games for the kids to enjoy....