Each are symbols of education. One, the First Academy
Building, is where the boys formal education takes place. Everything from academic
classes to decorum is learned in this building. Throughout this story, Gene's reliance
on having superior expertise in this type of education is
threatened.
The tree, for example, teaches Gene truths
about life. This is the place where friendship was kindled and threatened. This is also
a place where young men went to learn how to really exhibit their bravery and become men
as they jumped off the branch. Many were too scared. Gene learned significant lessons
here about his choices and the consequences these had on other
people.
Another way that these symbols relate has to do
with the story's two main characters. The First Academy Building represented all Gene
aspired towards: success, intellect and social appropriateness. The tree represented the
life that Finny longed for and never received. Finny had hoped to fight in the war.
Jumping off the branch as the boys did simulated jumping out of planes. This tree also
did not require superior grades or man-made expectations. It simply longed for nature to
take its course. Sometimes nature is not so kind and it certainly took its course with
Finny.
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