Why is so little said about Gene's appearance and skills in the book A Separate Peace?

In "A Separate Peace," the focus is more on the internal struggles and emotions of the characters rather than their physical attributes or abilities. By emphasizing the characters' thoughts and relationships, the author creates a more introspective and nuanced portrayal of their experiences at a boarding school during World War II. This approach allows for a deeper exploration of themes such as friendship, jealousy, and the loss of innocence.