What is Daniel Keyes perspective on the phrase “Ignorance is bliss?” In the Daniel Keyes short story ‘Flowers for Algernon,’ the author explores the concept of whether ignorance is bliss. Initially, the protagonist of the story, Charlie Gordon, has little social awareness. He undergoes an experimental surgery with the desire to become smarter, hoping the intelligence will bring him happiness. However, as Charlie’s intelligence improves, he starts to develop emotional intelligence, which enlightens him to the fact that the world can be cruel and unforgiving. Keyes suggests that while ignorance may provide a temporary comfort, true happiness is derived from knowledge, awareness and contributing to society. ‘Flowers for Algernon’ explains the …show more content…
For example, the first time we see this was when Joe said, “What did they do Charlie put some brains in.” Following this Charlie says that “They’re really my friends and they like me.” Charlie, due to his low intelligence, believes they are his “good friends.” Ms Kinnian was aware of Charlie’s situation and tried to warn him of the dangers of becoming aware, but Charlie doesn’t believe it. However, from the readers perspective, it is apparent that they treat him awfully. This shows that his ignorance shielded him from finding out that his friends were bullying him. Furthermore, once Charlie’s intelligence has increased, he begins to realise he is only kept around to be something to joke about. He realises this and says, “Now I know what it means when they say to pull a Charlie Gordon”. As a result, he distances himself from the factory and his coworkers, afraid of the humiliation. Us readers now empathize with Charlie’s position, and posses more hatred towards Joe and Frank for making him feel uncomfortable in his workplace. However, both Joe and Frank progress as people towards the end of the