Class 12- Play “On The Face Of It” Full Analysis

Vistas, “On The Face Of It” by Susan Hill, Summary, Theme, Character Sketches, Extra Questions and Supplementary Reader Question Answers.

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Vocabulary:

Summary “On The Face Of It” Susan Hill:

“On The Face Of It” by Susan Hill is a poignant play that explores the unlikely friendship between a disfigured young boy named Derry and an elderly man named Mr. Lamb. Even though Derry is initially reluctant and resistant because of his facial disfigurement from acid burns, Mr Lamb’s kind and understanding demeanour slowly helps Derry lower his defences.

Both characters find solace and understanding through their conversations in Mr. Lamb’s garden. However, when Mr Lamb falls from a ladder while picking crab apples, tragedy strikes.

In the end, Derry returns to Mr. Lamb’s garden, demonstrating his loyalty and the depth of their connection. The play emphasises acceptance, friendship, and the importance of human connection despite physical differences.

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Theme “On The Face Of It” Susan Hill:

The Power of Human Connection and Empathy:

The central theme of “On The Face Of It” revolves around human connection, empathy, and understanding in overcoming prejudice, isolation, and adversity. The play delves into the unlikely friendship between Derry, a young boy with a disfigured face, and Mr Lamb, an elderly man with a prosthetic leg, who meet in Mr Lamb’s garden.

Despite societal prejudices and individual doubts, Derry and Mr Lamb develop a connection rooted in acceptance, empathy, and companionship. Their exchanges in the play delve into themes of compassion, resilience, the effects of appearance on social dynamics, and the significance of seeking comfort and understanding in human connections.

“On The Face Of It” suggests that genuine connections can transcend external differences and provide healing and emotional support in adversity.

Explanation for Auditory Learners:

Duration: 15 minutes

Chapters/time stamps are available with key scenes from the play.

Character Sketch:

1. Character Sketch of Derry:

Derry, one of the central characters in “On The Face Of It” by Susan Hill, is a complex individual whose experiences and emotions drive much of the play’s narrative. Here’s a character sketch of Derry:

• Physical Appearance: Derry is a young boy, around thirteen or fourteen. He has a disfigured face due to acid burns, which has left him with visible scars and likely affects his self-image and interactions with others.

• Emotional State: Derry is emotionally vulnerable and sensitive, as evidenced by his initial reluctance to engage with Mr Lamb and his admission of feeling isolated and misunderstood by society. His disfigurement has deeply impacted his sense of self-worth and belonging, leading to feelings of anger, panic, and insecurity.

• Defiance and Independence: Derry demonstrates defiance and independence despite his vulnerability, particularly in his interactions with Mr. Lamb and his mother. He resents being pitied or judged by others and strives to assert his autonomy and individuality.

• Yearning for Connection: Beneath his tough exterior, Derry longs for genuine connection and understanding. He seeks solace and companionship in Mr. Lamb’s garden, drawn to the older man’s empathy and acceptance. His willingness to return to the garden despite societal pressures reflects his deep-seated desire for human connection and belonging.

• Inner Strength and Resilience: Derry exhibits inner strength and resilience despite facing societal stigma and personal challenges. His decision to confront his fears and return to Mr Lamb’s garden highlights his courage and determination to forge meaningful connections and reclaim his sense of agency.

• Search for Identity: Derry grapples with questions of identity and self-acceptance throughout the play. His disfigurement serves as a constant reminder of his perceived otherness, prompting him to question his place in the world and reconcile his appearance with his sense of self.

• Transformation and Growth: Through his interactions with Mr. Lamb, Derry experiences transformative growth and emotional healing. Their unlikely friendship challenges Derry to confront his insecurities and embrace his inner worth, ultimately fostering a sense of acceptance and belonging.

Derry emerges as a complex and multifaceted character whose journey of self-discovery and resilience forms a central narrative arc in “On The Face Of It.” His experiences highlight the universal themes of human connection, empathy, and the power of acceptance in overcoming adversity.

2. Character Sketch of Mr Lamb: 

Mr Lamb, a pivotal character in “On The Face Of It” by Susan Hill, possesses a distinctive personality shaped by his experiences and interactions with others. Here’s a character sketch of Mr Lamb:

• Physical Appearance: Mr Lamb is an elderly man, likely in his later years, as indicated by his age-related ailments and the loss of his leg. He walks with a prosthetic limb, his “tin leg,” suggesting a sense of humour and resilience in the face of adversity.

• Warmth and Empathy: Mr. Lamb exudes warmth and empathy in his interactions with Derry and others who enter his garden. He demonstrates genuine concern for Derry’s well-being and seeks to create a welcoming environment where individuals feel accepted and understood.

• Philosophical Outlook: Mr. Lamb possesses a philosophical outlook on life, often engaging in reflective conversations with Derry about topics ranging from human nature to the complexities of existence. His musings reflect a deep appreciation for the beauty of life and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

• Resilience and Adaptability: Despite facing physical challenges, such as losing his leg, Mr. Lamb exhibits resilience and adaptability. He refuses to be defined by his disability and embraces life with optimism and zest, evident in his love for gardening and beekeeping.

• Openness and Acceptance: Mr Lamb embodies openness and acceptance, welcoming Derry into his garden without judgment or prejudice. He encourages Derry to embrace his individuality and find solace in their shared experiences, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance.

• Loneliness and Isolation: Beneath his affable exterior, Mr. Lamb grapples with loneliness and isolation, hinted at by his solitary lifestyle and the absence of curtains in his house. His interactions with Derry offer moments of connection and companionship, providing respite from his solitude.

• Wisdom and Patience: Mr. Lamb possesses a wealth of wisdom and patience from a lifetime of experiences and observations. He imparts valuable lessons to Derry about resilience, empathy, and the importance of embracing life’s uncertainties with grace and humility.

• Symbol of Hope: In the play, Mr. Lamb emerges as a symbol of hope and redemption, offering Derry a glimpse of kindness and compassion beyond societal prejudices and superficial judgments. His friendship with Derry serves as a beacon of light in the darkness, inspiring both characters to confront their fears and embrace the beauty of human connection.

Mr Lamb is a complex and empathetic character whose presence enriches the thematic exploration of friendship, acceptance, and resilience in “On The Face Of It.” His unwavering kindness and wisdom impact Derry and readers alike, highlighting the transformative power of compassion and understanding in the face of adversity.

Question Answers “On The Face Of It”:

Reading with Insight:

Q1. What is it that draws Derry towards Mr Lamb in spite of himself? 

A1: Derry is drawn towards Mr Lamb despite himself due to Mr Lamb’s genuine acceptance and interest in him. Despite Derry’s initial resistance and fear of judgment, Mr. Lamb’s non-judgmental attitude, willingness to listen, and genuine kindness create a sense of belonging and connection for Derry, which he may not experience elsewhere.

Q2. In which section of the play does Mr Lamb display signs of loneliness and disappointment? What are the ways in which Mr Lamb tries to overcome these feelings? 

A2: Mr Lamb displays signs of loneliness and disappointment in Scene One,  where he reflects on the fleeting nature of human connections and the tendency of people not to return. Despite his openness and hospitality, Mr. Lamb experiences a sense of solitude as he observes others coming and going without forming lasting bonds. To overcome these feelings, Mr. Lamb engages in activities he enjoys, such as tending to his bees and finding solace in nature.

Q3. The actual pain or inconvenience caused by a physical impairment is often much less than the sense of alienation felt by the person with disabilities. What is the kind of behaviour that the person expects from others? 

A3: People with disabilities often expect understanding, acceptance, and empathy from others. Beyond physical accommodations, they seek genuine human connection and inclusion in social interactions. This includes respectful communication, avoiding pity, and treating them as equals rather than focusing solely on their disability. Acceptance and inclusion contribute significantly to their sense of belonging and well-being.

Q4. Will Derry get back to his old seclusion, or will Mr Lamb’s brief association effect a change in the kind of life he will lead in the future?

A4: It remains to be seen whether Derry will return to his old seclusion or if his brief association with Mr Lamb will change his future life. While he initially desires to return to Mr Lamb’s garden, his final decision and future actions will depend on various factors, including his internal conflicts, external pressures, and the depth of his connection with Mr Lamb. The play’s resolution leaves room for interpretation regarding Derry’s future path.

Alternate Ending:

Q: What could be an alternate ending to the story/play “On The Face Of It”?

A: An alternate ending to the story/play involves Derry overcoming his initial resistance and forming a deeper bond with Mr. Lamb over time. Instead of Mr Lamb’s fall being the climax, it could be a moment of realisation for Derry about the importance of human connection and empathy. In this alternate ending:

• Derry could rush to help Mr Lamb after his fall, showcasing his growing empathy and care for another person.

• The incident could be a turning point for Derry, leading him to reevaluate his perceptions about himself and others.

• Derry might consciously defy societal judgments and prejudices, embracing his uniqueness and the connections he forms with people like Mr Lamb.

• The play could end with Derry and Mr Lamb continuing to spend time together in the garden, nurturing their friendship and finding solace in each other’s company.

Extra Questions “On The Face Of It”: 

Short Answer Type Questions:

Q1: How does Derry’s perception of himself evolve throughout the play?

A1: Initially feeling isolated and misunderstood due to his facial disfigurement, Derry gradually realises his worth beyond physical appearances. His interactions with Mr. Lamb foster self-acceptance and the understanding that true beauty lies within.

Q2: What draws Derry towards Mr Lamb despite his initial reluctance?

A2: Derry is drawn to Mr Lamb’s genuine acceptance and lack of judgment. Mr. Lamb’s open-hearted invitation and willingness to listen make Derry feel valued and understood, sparking a deep connection between them.

Q3: How does Derry’s initial encounter with Mr Lamb impact his perception of himself and others?

A3: Derry’s meeting with Mr Lamb challenges his belief that people judge him solely based on his appearance. Mr. Lamb’s acceptance prompts Derry to reconsider his self-worth and the nature of human connection.

Q4: How does Mr Lamb’s attitude towards Derry differ from others?

A4: Mr. Lamb treats Derry with genuine acceptance and interest, contrasting sharply with the fear and avoidance Derry faces from society. His kindness and openness create a unique bond that transcends Derry’s appearance.

Q5: What role does the garden play in the relationship between Derry and Mr Lamb?

A5: The garden serves as a sanctuary where Derry and Mr Lamb connect on a deeper level. It symbolises acceptance and understanding, offering them a space free from judgment and prejudice.

Q6: How does Derry’s return to Mr Lamb’s garden reflect his internal struggle?

A6: Derry’s return symbolises his yearning for acceptance and belonging despite societal pressures. It highlights his desire to defy expectations and embrace genuine connections, even when facing rejection.

Q7: What internal conflicts does Derry face regarding his identity and place in the world?

A7: Derry grapples with feelings of isolation and self-doubt due to his facial disfigurement. He struggles to reconcile societal perceptions with his sense of worth and belonging, seeking validation and acceptance.

Q8: How does Mr. Lamb’s perspective on life contrast with Derry’s initial perceptions?

A8: Mr. Lamb’s optimistic outlook and acceptance of life’s uncertainties contrast Derry’s initial cynicism and fear of rejection. Through their interactions, Derry learns to embrace hope and resilience in adversity.

Q9: What themes of resilience and human connection emerge from the play?

A9: The play explores themes of resilience as characters confront adversity and societal prejudice. It highlights the transformative power of human connection, emphasising the importance of acceptance, empathy, and understanding in overcoming barriers to belonging.

Q10: How does Mr Lamb challenge Derry’s perception of himself and the world?

A10: Mr. Lamb’s kindness and acceptance challenge Derry’s belief that society inherently rejects him. Derry begins to see the possibility of genuine connection and acceptance through their interactions.

Q11: What role does empathy play in the relationship between Derry and Mr. Lamb?

A11: Empathy is the foundation of their relationship, enabling them to bridge the gap between their differences and understand each other’s experiences. It fosters mutual respect and allows them to form a genuine bond built on acceptance and understanding.

Q12: How does Derry’s journey throughout the play reflect the universal human desire for connection and acceptance?

A12: Derry’s journey mirrors the universal human longing for connection and acceptance in a world that often judges based on appearances. His pursuit of belonging highlights the inherent need for empathy and understanding in fostering genuine relationships.

Q13: How does the play “On The Face Of It” address the complexities of human relationships and societal perceptions?

A13: Through nuanced characters like Derry and Mr Lamb, the play delves into the intricacies of human connections and challenges societal norms, urging audiences to reconsider preconceived notions and embrace empathy and acceptance.

Q14: How does “On The Face Of It” illustrate the impact of societal judgments on individuals with physical differences?

A14: The play vividly portrays the profound effects of societal judgments on individuals like Derry, highlighting the alienation and isolation they endure due to societal perceptions, thereby prompting reflection on the importance of empathy and acceptance.

Q15: How does “On The Face Of It” challenge traditional notions of beauty and acceptance?

A15: “On The Face Of It” challenges conventional (traditional) notions of beauty by portraying characters like Derry, whose physical appearance is undesirable, yet they seek acceptance and understanding. It prompts reflection on the deeper qualities that define human worth beyond appearances.

Long Answer Type Questions: 

Q1: How does Derry’s initial perception of Mr Lamb contradict his eventual bond?

A1: Initially, Derry views Mr Lamb as just another judgmental figure. But as they interact, Derry discovers Mr Lamb’s genuine acceptance and understanding, fostering a unique bond based on mutual respect and empathy. 

Despite their differences, they find solace and companionship in each other’s company, challenging Derry’s preconceptions and revealing the depth of human connection beyond superficial judgments. 

Through their evolving relationship, the play highlights the transformative power of empathy and acceptance in overcoming societal barriers and forging meaningful connections.

Q2: How does the theme of isolation manifest in “On The Face Of It”?

A2: “On The Face Of It” portrays isolation through Derry’s experiences as he grapples with societal perceptions of his disfigurement. His sense of alienation is palpable, reflected in his reluctance to engage with others due to fear of rejection. 

Likewise, Mr. Lamb’s loneliness, hinted at through his solitary existence, highlights the pervasive theme of isolation in the play. Despite their isolation, both characters find solace in their brief encounter, emphasising the potential for human connection to alleviate feelings of loneliness and alienation. 

Through their experiences, the play highlights the universal longing for acceptance and companionship amidst societal prejudices.

Q3: How does Mr. Lamb’s attitude challenge societal norms regarding physical appearance and disability?

A3: Despite his disfigurement, Mr. Lamb’s acceptance of Derry challenges societal norms that often marginalise based on physical appearance. 

Through his compassionate demeanour and inclusive attitude, Mr. Lamb demonstrates that true acceptance transcends superficial empathy and understanding regardless of one’s physical condition. 

His willingness to engage with Derry on a human level, devoid of prejudice, is a poignant reminder of the importance of seeing beyond external attributes to recognise every individual’s inherent dignity and worth.

Q4: What role does empathy play in the relationship between Derry and Mr Lamb?

A4: Empathy is the cornerstone of Derry and Mr Lamb’s relationship, bridging the gap between their disparate experiences. Mr. Lamb’s empathetic response to Derry’s struggles fosters understanding and validation, providing Derry with the emotional support he craves. 

Likewise, Derry’s willingness to open up to Mr. Lamb reflects his recognition of genuine empathy, enabling them to form a profound connection rooted in shared vulnerability and mutual respect. 

Through their interactions, the play highlights the transformative power of empathy in fostering meaningful connections and challenging societal barriers to acceptance and belonging.

Q5: What role does the garden symbolise in the play “On The Face Of It”?

A5: The garden in “On The Face Of It” represents a haven of solace and transformation for the characters, particularly Derry and Mr Lamb. 

It serves as a symbolic space where individuals confront their inner turmoil and societal perceptions, seeking refuge from the harsh realities of the outside world. Within the garden’s serene ambience, Derry finds acceptance and understanding from Mr. Lamb, challenging his preconceived notions of self-worth and belonging.

Mr. Lamb, despite his physical isolation, discovers companionship and purpose through his interactions with Derry and other visitors. The garden thus becomes a transformative landscape, fostering empathy, resilience, and the capacity for human connection amidst adversity, emphasising the power of nature to nurture and heal the human spirit.

Q6: How does Mr. Lamb’s philosophy of acceptance and openness impact his relationships with others?

A6: Mr. Lamb’s philosophy of acceptance and openness profoundly influences his relationships, fostering genuine connections with others. By welcoming people into his garden and home without judgment, he creates a space where individuals feel valued and accepted, regardless of their backgrounds or appearances. 

This inclusive attitude enables Mr. Lamb to form meaningful bonds with diverse individuals, transcending societal barriers and prejudices. His genuine curiosity and empathy towards others allow for honest communication and mutual understanding, laying the foundation for real friendships. 

Through his actions, Mr. Lamb exemplifies the transformative power of acceptance and compassion, inspiring those around him to embrace difference and celebrate the inherent worth of every individual, thereby enriching the fabric of human connection and community.

Q7: Justify the title of the play “On The Face Of It.”

A7: The title “On The Face Of It” encapsulates the play’s central theme, which revolves around the superficial judgments people make based on outward appearances and the deeper truths that lie beneath the surface. 

In the play, characters like Derry and Mr Lamb grapple/struggle with societal perceptions of physical appearance and disability, highlighting the tendency to judge others solely by their external features. However, as the narrative unfolds, the title adds significance as characters confront their prejudices and perceptions, realising that true understanding and connection require looking beyond superficial impressions. 

The title invites readers to ponder the complexities of human interaction and the importance of seeing beyond appearances to uncover the profound truths that define us as individuals.

MSRO Smart Notes: Mastering Class 12 CBSE Literature : Smart Note…

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