I think it is because of those intervening years. He was told and lived a lie. By the time he discovered the truth, he didn’t want to believe it, so conmtinued the lie.
Illegitimacy doesn’t matter to many NOW, but it mattered in the 60’s, the 70’s and the 80’s. He lived the lie and now he is stuck with it. To admit he lied would damage his credibilty as well as destroy the fascade he has created.
I think there are clues in Dreams of My Father that point to this.
So you are saying when he found out he was a bastard it really messed him up?
I think there are clues in Dreams of My Father that point to this.
Would it damage BO that much now for him to stand up before all and say, "I'm a bastard"? I think there is more to it than that.