The Tunnel

     In my opinion, the tunnel is used as a good setting to help the two character's experiences connect (as I said on the wiki), but it is also very symbolic. In both Ib and Ken's experience, I think that they were trying to overcome their desire to fit in, and become a mature, independent person ( Ken wanted to fit in with his friends, and Ib wanted to fit in with 'the girls'). The tunnel then helps symbolize that the situation is a difficult experience for the character, in which they must make a decision that will greatly affect their lives. In Ken's experience he was in the middle of the tunnel; this could represent the 'pressure' on him to make the right decision. Coming out of the tunnel could symbolize the pressure leaving the character.