Tell how Gene's statement that "peace had deserted Devon" illuminates the theme of A Separate Peace.

When we look at A Separate Peace in its entirety, it becomes apparent that despite its title, there is never really a time of true contentment or rest at Devon -- whether it's the ongoing wartime drills and trainings, the conflict between the boys themselves, or the backdrop of Finny's disaster, there's always some type of extenuating circumstance that prevents a true peace from occurring. The closest the boys ever come is when they are off on their own, either swimming or playing games. But even then, the presence of war and strife constantly remains in the back of our characters' minds.