aide-memoire (French) a memorandum of a discussion, proposed agreement, etc. Here, Knowles uses the term comically.
Mahatma Gandhi (1869–1948) Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, Hindu nationalist leader and social reformer, assassinated; called Mahatma. The term describes any of a class of wise and holy persons held in special regard or reverence. Here, Gene jokes that if Leper can find the courage to jump from the tree, than Gene is as holy as the Indian leader.
Ne Plus Ultra (Latin) the ultimate; especially the finest, best, most perfect, etc. Here the term refers to an academic award Gene hopes to win at graduation.
Lazarus the brother of Mary and Martha, raised from the dead by Jesus. Here, Finny awakening on the beach reminds Gene of Lazarus miraculously coming to life again.
