In the novel A Separate Peace by John Knowels, Phineas is depicted as a propitious and understanding individual. First of all, he is Gene's best friend. Finny includes Gene in any activity that he creates, or participates in. (Phineas is also referred to as Finny.)From the Super Suicide Society of the Summer Session, to Blitzball; Gene is never once excluded. Even at the beach, another one of Finny's excursions, Gene is shown a good …showed first 75 words of 473 total…

…showed last 75 words of 473 total…leg, Finny says, "I believe you. It's okay because I understand and I believe you. You've already shown me and I believe you." Finny accepts his crippled leg, and forgives Gene for his blind impulse. His belief that Gene is remorseful, and his acceptance of what has happened, shows immense understanding. Being Gene's best friend, always having fun ideas, his understanding personality - these are all reasons why Phineas is a propitious and understanding individual.