Neil feels betrayed by his father when he joins the army, in the short story "War." Neil's feeling of betrayal is communicated symbolically through the story's sometimes-dark setting, and descriptive symbols. Also his feeling of betrayal is communicated through dialogue throughout the story. Neil's feeling of betrayal by his father in Timothy Findley's War, is demonstrated thoroughly by the setting, different symbols, and Neil's own thoughts and emotions toward his father.

Although it may be subtle, the story's setting contributes to Neil's feeling of betrayal by his father. When recalling the night he spent in the barn, hiding from his father, Neil says, "I don't know whether you're afraid of the dark, but I'll tell you right now, I am. At least, I am if I have to move around in it. If I can just sit still, then I'm all right. At least, if you sit still...