The proverb “ignorance is bliss” means that if one does not know about something, one does not need to be concerned about it. This proverb is being implemented by Phineas throughout the novel. Phineas forces himself to deny the reality of the accident and the war’s existence. He refuses to accept that Gene deliberately jounces the tree limb, which makes him fall and shatter his leg. Gene is consumed in guilt, and in order to relieve himself of that guilt, he visits Phineas and confesses. However, after listening to Gene’s confessions, Phineas says “I don’t know anything. Go away. I’m tired and you make me sick. Go away (Knowles 62).” Phineas does not want to question to nature of his friendship with Gene because he does not want things to change
