Water

Throughout the novel, water symbolizes the possibility for rebirth through the merging of body and mind. When Darren is swimming in the North Falls Pool, he often finds the water is able to quiet his incessant and intrusive thoughts. As his psychic turmoil increases, however, Darren finds that even swimming cannot keep his mind from distraction. Despite this feeling, Darren continues to use the pool as a place within which he can deposit the poisonous facets of consciousness. Once Darren confronts Principal Newlove, attempting to explain the events that transpired with Mr. Tracy, Darren is able to once more find peace while exerting himself in the water. By channeling his guilt regarding Mr. Tracy's death into his swimming and diving, Darren is able to beat all of his times. This scene from Chapter 61, where Darren helps his team win the meet against St. John's, illustrates the...