On The Face of It
On the Face of It: A Journey from Isolation to Acceptance
Critical Analysis of On the Face of It by Susan Hill
Susan Hill’s On the Face of It is a thought-provoking play that delves into themes of isolation, self-acceptance, human connection, and the psychological effects of physical disability. Through the characters of Derry, a young boy with a facial scar, and Mr. Lamb, an elderly man with a disability, Hill explores the complexities of human emotions and the impact of societal attitudes on individuals who deviate from the norms of physical appearance.
1. Theme of Isolation and AlienationThe play poignantly portrays the isolation felt by both Derry and Mr. Lamb, not just because of their physical differences but also because of how society treats them. Derry feels alienated by the world due to the reactions his scarred face invokes in others, which leads him to withdraw from social interaction. He internalizes society's judgment and rejection, becoming reclusive and embittered. Mr. Lamb, on the other hand, though physically isolated in his house, actively seeks connection, maintaining an open-door policy to all who pass by. His physical disability (a leg injury that earned him the nickname “Lamey-Lamb”) is presented as a barrier between him and others, especially children who mock him. Hill’s portrayal of these two characters highlights the emotional pain caused by social exclusion, which can often surpass the actual inconvenience of physical impairment.
2. Contrasting Attitudes Toward LifeThe central contrast in the play is between the worldviews of Mr. Lamb and Derry. Derry, embittered by his experiences of being judged and shunned for his scar, sees the world as a hostile place that has nothing good to offer him. He has developed a deep sense of self-loathing and mistrust of others. Mr. Lamb, in contrast, adopts a positive and hopeful outlook. Despite being equally ostracized due to his disability, he believes in embracing life, accepting one’s flaws, and finding joy in simple things like nature and human contact. Through Mr. Lamb’s character, Hill critiques the way people often become trapped in self-pity and bitterness, advocating instead for an acceptance of life’s imperfections.
3. The Psychological Impact of Physical DisabilityThe play emphasizes that the psychological and emotional impact of a physical disability often outweighs the actual physical limitations it might impose. Both Derry and Mr. Lamb struggle more with how society views them than with their actual impairments. For Derry, the disfigurement of his face has led to a deep sense of alienation, affecting his self-esteem and worldview. Mr. Lamb, though physically disabled, does not let his injury define him. Hill makes a strong commentary on the need for society to go beyond physical appearances and recognize the emotional and intellectual worth of people with disabilities. This is particularly relevant to Derry’s journey in the play, as he begins to understand that his scar does not define his entire identity.
4. Human Connection and TransformationThe relationship between Derry and Mr. Lamb is at the heart of the play, serving as a transformative force for Derry. Initially, Derry is reluctant to engage with Mr. Lamb, but over time, he is drawn in by the older man’s wisdom and openness. Mr. Lamb, who has learned to accept his own solitude, offers Derry a perspective on life that he has never encountered before—one that is optimistic, inclusive, and free from judgment. This brief but powerful connection shows how meaningful human relationships can break down the walls of isolation and despair. Mr. Lamb’s death at the end of the play symbolizes the fragility of life, but his influence on Derry hints at the possibility of lasting change, suggesting that Derry may choose a more open and fulfilling life after his encounter with Mr. Lamb.
5. Symbolism and MotifsHill employs symbolism and motifs to reinforce the themes of the play. Mr. Lamb’s garden, for instance, symbolizes life, growth, and the possibility of renewal. It serves as a refuge for both Mr. Lamb and Derry, a place where the judgments of the outside world don’t matter. The contrast between the blooming plants and the physical scars of both characters suggests that beauty and vitality can exist even in imperfection. Mr. Lamb’s open windows and doors symbolize his openness to life and people, in contrast to Derry’s closed-off nature. These motifs highlight the importance of perspective in shaping one's experience of life.
6. Open Ending and InterpretationThe play ends on an ambiguous note, with Derry running back to Mr. Lamb’s garden only to discover the older man lying dead, having fallen from a ladder. The open ending leaves the audience questioning whether Derry will revert to his old, isolated self or embrace the lessons he has learned from Mr. Lamb. This ambiguity adds depth to the play, allowing readers to reflect on the transformative power of human connections and the role of individual choice in overcoming adversity. Hill subtly suggests that the future is uncertain, but the seeds of change have been planted in Derry’s mind.
ConclusionSusan Hill’s On the Face of It is a compelling exploration of disability, isolation, and human resilience. Through the characters of Derry and Mr. Lamb, the play critiques societal attitudes toward physical appearance and disability, advocating for a more compassionate and inclusive approach. It also underscores the transformative power of empathy and human connection, reminding us that inner beauty and strength are far more important than outward appearances. The play leaves a lasting impression, encouraging reflection on the importance of self-acceptance and the need to look beyond the surface in our interactions with others.
Reading with Insight
What is it that draws Derry towards Mr. Lamb in spite of himself?
Derry, a young boy with a facial scar, is drawn towards Mr. Lamb because of the old man's positive outlook and the way he treats Derry without pity or judgment. Mr. Lamb’s open and accepting nature contrasts sharply with the way most people react to Derry’s appearance. He doesn’t see Derry as just a "scarred boy" but as a person with potential. Mr. Lamb's non-judgmental attitude, his stories, and his different perspective on life intrigue Derry, and despite his initial reluctance, Derry finds comfort in Mr. Lamb’s company.
2. 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?
Mr. Lamb displays signs of loneliness and disappointment in the sections where he talks about how people do not visit him often and how children mock him by calling him “Lamey-Lamb.” He mentions that although his garden is open, very few people come to visit, indicating his isolation. Mr. Lamb overcomes these feelings by keeping an open door policy, maintaining a positive attitude, tending to his garden, and staying busy. He finds solace in nature, reading, and looking forward to meeting new people, even though they rarely come.
3. 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?
A person with disabilities often expects others to treat them with normalcy and respect, without pity or condescension. They want to be seen as individuals with feelings, capabilities, and personalities, not just defined by their impairments. People with disabilities expect understanding, inclusion, and empathy. They also hope for open-mindedness, without the sense of "otherness" or alienation that society sometimes imposes on them due to their physical conditions.
4. Will Derry get back to his old seclusion or will Mr. Lamb’s brief association affect a change in the kind of life he will lead in the future?
While the play leaves this open-ended, Mr. Lamb’s influence is likely to have a significant effect on Derry’s future. Mr. Lamb’s words resonate deeply with Derry, encouraging him to embrace life despite his physical appearance and the judgment of others. Derry’s decision to return to Mr. Lamb’s garden, despite his mother’s objections, indicates that he is already starting to break free from his self-imposed isolation. Mr. Lamb’s philosophy of living life fully and positively might lead Derry to adopt a more open and confident approach to life, leaving his old seclusion behind.
Point wise story line
In Susan Hill's play "On the Face of It," an old man and a small boy, Derry, meet in Mr. Lamb's garden.
Derry, a young boy, is initially scared of Mr. Lamb, who is in the garden, but he doesn't mind anyone entering.
Mr. Lamb, an old man, strikes up a friendship with the withdrawn and defiant Derry.
Derry shares with Mr. Lamb that people are afraid of him due to his appearance, regardless of their own.
Mr. Lamb reveals that he got acid on his face, burning it away, and expresses his disinterest in being with people.
Mr. Lamb suggests pulling down crab apples for jelly, considering it a good time of year.
Derry questions Mr. Lamb about his appearance and the acid burns, showing curiosity.
Mr. Lamb doesn't want to be asked about his burns but is interested in the idea.
Derek enters Mr. Lamb's garden, describing it as a weed garden, questioning the classification of plants as weeds or flowers.
Derek mentions his burned face and a tin leg, a result of a blown-off tin leg years ago.
Derek thinks about the world in the garden, contemplating its vastness and the diversity of life.
The text describes Derek as a peculiar person with an unusual appearance and behaviour, often heard by others.
Mr. Lamb is surprised by Derek's behaviour, asking him questions, and suggests he could get along better with people.
Derek wants a place like Mr. Lamb's garden, expressing a desire to return even if Mr. Lamb is not present.
The story concludes with Mr. Lamb's death, and Derry weeps over him, highlighting the impact of their connection.
Value-based questions:
How does Mr. Lamb's openness and acceptance of Derry reflect the value of inclusivity and compassion?
Mr. Lamb's acceptance of Derry, despite his physical appearance, demonstrates the value of inclusivity, showing that genuine compassion extends beyond superficial judgments.
In what ways does Derry's decision to return to Mr. Lamb's garden highlight the value of overcoming societal prejudices?
Derry's return to the garden signifies his commitment to overcoming societal prejudices, emphasizing the value of looking beyond stereotypes and recognizing the worth of individuals.
What values does Mr. Lamb demonstrate through his willingness to share his garden and time with others, despite his own physical challenges?
Mr. Lamb's generosity in sharing his space and time reflects values of kindness, selflessness, and a sense of community, showcasing the importance of supporting one another.
How does Derry's choice to seek solace and understanding in the garden align with the value of finding comfort in shared experiences?
Derry's retreat to the garden underscores the value of shared experiences as a source of comfort, emphasizing the therapeutic nature of connecting with others who may share similar struggles.
In the context of the play, how does the theme of friendship between Mr. Lamb and Derry emphasize the importance of looking beyond physical appearances?
The friendship between Mr. Lamb and Derry highlights the value of seeing beyond physical appearances, illustrating that meaningful connections are based on understanding and acceptance.
What values can be attributed to Mr. Lamb's perspective on the diversity of life, as expressed through the analogy of flowers and weeds in his garden?
Mr. Lamb's analogy speaks to the values of diversity, acceptance, and the idea that differences contribute to the richness of life, much like the various flowers and weeds in his garden.
How does Derry's acknowledgment of his desire for a place like Mr. Lamb's garden reflect the value of finding sanctuary and connection in unexpected places?
Derry's yearning for a place like the garden signifies the value of finding sanctuary and connection in unexpected places, emphasizing the transformative power of environments that foster understanding.
What values are evident in Mr. Lamb's encouragement of Derry to confront societal judgments and stereotypes rather than succumbing to them?
Mr. Lamb's encouragement reflects values of courage, resilience, and the importance of standing against societal judgments, emphasizing the need to challenge stereotypes.
In the face of Derry's emotional revelation about the hurtful comments he hears, what values can be associated with Mr. Lamb's response and empathy?
Mr. Lamb's empathy in response to Derry's pain demonstrates values of compassion, understanding, and emotional support, highlighting the significance of empathy in fostering meaningful connections.
How does the ending of the play, with Derry weeping over Mr. Lamb's fall, resonate with the value of genuine connections and the impact of human relationships on one's life?
The emotional ending underscores the value of genuine connections and the profound impact of human relationships, emphasizing that true connections transcend physical appearances and leave a lasting imprint on one's life.
Extra Questions
How does Derry initially react when he encounters Mr. Lamb in the garden?
Why does Mr. Lamb caution Derry to "mind the apples"?
What prompts Derry to believe that the garden is empty before meeting Mr. Lamb?
How does Mr. Lamb respond to Derry's fear and assures him it's alright?
Why does Derry express a need to leave abruptly when talking to Mr. Lamb?
What is the significance of Mr. Lamb mentioning that the garden is empty when he is outside?
How does Derry react to the idea of people being afraid of him because of his appearance?
What does Mr. Lamb mean when he says, "There’s nothing God made that doesn’t interest me"?
Why does Derry feel that people are afraid of him, regardless of their outward reactions?
How does Mr. Lamb respond to Derry's revelation about the acid burns on his face?
Why does Derry express his aversion to being near people, even though he comes into Mr. Lamb's garden?
How does Mr. Lamb try to comfort and encourage Derry regarding his appearance?
Why does Derry compare himself to the fairy tale of Beauty and the Beast?
What does Mr. Lamb mean by saying, "Beauty and the beast. It’s all relative. Beauty and the beast"?
How does Mr. Lamb explain the difference between himself and Derry despite their physical differences?
Why does Derry inquire about Mr. Lamb's prosthetic leg and its impact on his life?
How does Mr. Lamb respond to Derry's concern about people staring at him and being afraid?
Why does Derry express a desire for a place like Mr. Lamb's garden?
How does Mr. Lamb react when Derry suggests he might never come back to the garden?
What leads to the emotional moment at the end of the play, and how does it impact Derry's perspective?
ANSWERS:
How does Derry initially react when he encounters Mr. Lamb in the garden?
Derry is startled and confused, not expecting anyone to be in the garden. He expresses surprise and nervousness.
Why does Mr. Lamb caution Derry to "mind the apples"?
Mr. Lamb wants to prevent Derry from tripping on the fallen crab apples in the long grass, ensuring his safety.
What prompts Derry to believe that the garden is empty before meeting Mr. Lamb?
Derry assumes the garden is empty because he doesn't see anyone when he looks around. He is unaware of Mr. Lamb's presence.
How does Mr. Lamb respond to Derry's fear and assures him it's alright?
Mr. Lamb reassures Derry that there is nothing to fear and expresses openness to anyone entering his garden. He tries to make Derry feel comfortable.
Why does Derry express a need to leave abruptly when talking to Mr. Lamb?
Derry expresses the need to leave abruptly because he is not accustomed to interacting with people and feels a sense of discomfort and unease.
What is the significance of Mr. Lamb mentioning that the garden is empty when he is outside?
Mr. Lamb is highlighting the emptiness of the house when he is not inside. He emphasizes the difference between the solitude inside and the lively garden outside.
How does Derry react to the idea of people being afraid of him because of his appearance?
Derry expresses frustration and a deep understanding that people are afraid of him, not just outwardly but also internally. He senses their discomfort despite their attempts to hide it.
What does Mr. Lamb mean when he says, "There’s nothing God made that doesn’t interest me"?
Mr. Lamb expresses his fascination with the diversity of creation, emphasizing that everything in the world interests him, regardless of its appearance or nature.
Why does Derry feel that people are afraid of him, regardless of their outward reactions?
Derry believes that people are internally afraid of him because he can perceive the genuine reactions and thoughts they try to hide. He senses the fear beneath the surface.
How does Mr. Lamb respond to Derry's revelation about the acid burns on his face?
Mr. Lamb responds with understanding and empathy, acknowledging Derry's pain and encouraging him to see beyond his physical appearance.
Why does Derry express his aversion to being near people, even though he comes into Mr. Lamb's garden?
Derry has likely faced rejection and negative reactions from people due to his appearance, leading to a general aversion to being around others.
How does Mr. Lamb try to comfort and encourage Derry regarding his appearance?
Mr. Lamb reassures Derry that his face doesn't define him entirely and encourages him to focus on the person he is inside rather than external judgments.
Why does Derry compare himself to the fairy tale of Beauty and the Beast?
Derry draws parallels between his situation and the fairy tale to emphasize the societal expectations and the belief that someone's inner qualities should be valued over their physical appearance.
What does Mr. Lamb mean by saying, "Beauty and the beast. It’s all relative. Beauty and the beast"?
Mr. Lamb suggests that the concepts of beauty and ugliness are subjective and relative, emphasizing that judgments based on appearances are not absolute.
How does Mr. Lamb explain the difference between himself and Derry despite their physical differences?
Mr. Lamb highlights the superficial differences, such as age and the prosthetic leg, but underscores that, fundamentally, they are the same as human beings.
Why does Derry inquire about Mr. Lamb's prosthetic leg and its impact on his life?
Derry is curious about Mr. Lamb's experiences with a prosthetic leg and how it may have affected his life. This inquiry reflects Derry's attempt to understand others with physical differences.
How does Mr. Lamb respond to Derry's concern about people staring at him and being afraid?
Mr. Lamb advises Derry not to let the fear of others dictate his actions and emphasizes the importance of living life on his terms.
Why does Derry express a desire for a place like Mr. Lamb's garden?
Derry desires a place like Mr. Lamb's garden because it represents a sanctuary where he can find acceptance and understanding, away from the judgmental eyes of society.
How does Mr. Lamb react when Derry suggests he might never come back to the garden?
Mr. Lamb remains calm and indifferent, stating that people seldom return. His response suggests a certain resignation to the transient nature of human connections.
What leads to the emotional moment at the end of the play, and how does it impact Derry's perspective?
The emotional moment at the end occurs when Derry returns to the garden after a conflict with his mother, only to find Mr. Lamb lying motionless after a fall. This moment likely.
MCQ’S
What caution does Mr. Lamb give to Derry when they first meet in the garden?
A. Watch out for snakes
B. Beware of the gate
C. Mind the apples
D. Be cautious of the bees
Why does Derry believe the garden is empty initially?
A. He sees no trees
B. He hears no birds
C. He thinks it's an abandoned house
D. The gate is closed
What is Derry's reaction to the suggestion that people are afraid of him?
A. He denies it
B. He agrees wholeheartedly
C. He laughs it off
D. He gets angry
According to Mr. Lamb, what does he like about sitting in the garden?
A. Watching the clouds
B. Enjoying the sunlight
C. Listening to the wind
D. All of the above
How does Mr. Lamb respond to Derry's revelation about his acid-burned face?
A. He expresses pity
B. He is indifferent
C. He reassures and empathizes
D. He laughs it off
What does Derry compare himself to, expressing his doubts about ever being loved?
A. A monster
B. A prince
C. A fairy tale
D. A devil
Why does Derry express aversion to being near people despite entering Mr. Lamb's garden?
A. He is afraid of Mr. Lamb
B. He dislikes gardens
C. Negative reactions due to his appearance
D. He prefers solitude
What analogy does Mr. Lamb use to explain the relative nature of beauty and ugliness?
A. Flowers and weeds
B. Day and night
C. Beauty and the beast
D. Light and darkness
Why does Derry inquire about Mr. Lamb's prosthetic leg?
A. Out of sympathy
B. Curiosity about disabilities
C. To mock him
D. Personal interest in prosthetics
How does Mr. Lamb respond to Derry's concern about people staring at him?
A. He advises Derry to hide
B. He encourages Derry to confront them
C. He suggests getting cosmetic surgery
D. He remains silent
What does Mr. Lamb compare his missing leg to?
A. A bomb blast
B. A tree branch
C. A ladder
D. A fairy tale
What reason does Mr. Lamb give for not having curtains in his house?
A. He likes the view
B. He dislikes curtains
C. To hear the wind
D. Both A and C
What analogy does Mr. Lamb use to explain the diversity of life?
A. Flowers in a garden
B. Bees in a hive
C. Names of people
D. Books in a library
What does Derry express a desire for at the end of the play?
A. A new face
B. Mr. Lamb's garden
C. Cosmetic surgery
D. Solitude
What emotional event occurs at the end of the play that impacts Derry's perspective?
A. Derry's reunion with his mother
B. Mr. Lamb's fall and immobility
C. Derry's decision to leave forever
D. The garden catching fire
Answers:
Here are the answers to the multiple-choice questions:
C. Mind the apples
C. He thinks it's an abandoned house
A. He denies it
D. All of the above
C. He reassures and empathizes
C. A fairy tale
C. Negative reactions due to his appearance
C. Beauty and the beast
B. Curiosity about disabilities
B. He encourages Derry to confront them
C. A ladder
D. Both A and C
C. Names of people
B. Mr. Lamb's garden
B. Mr. Lamb's fall and immobility
Fill in the blanks:
Mr. Lamb cautions Derry to "mind the ______" in the garden.
Derry expresses a desire for a place like Mr. Lamb's garden, a sanctuary for ______.
Mr. Lamb compares the diversity of life to the various flowers and ______ in his garden.
Derry compares himself to the fairy tale of Beauty and the ______.
Mr. Lamb mentions, "There’s nothing God made that doesn’t ______ me."
Derry fears that people are afraid of him because of his physical ______.
Mr. Lamb shares his perspective on beauty, saying, "Beauty and the ______. It’s all relative."
Derry expresses his aversion to being near people due to their potential ______.
Mr. Lamb describes his missing leg as having been taken away in a bomb ______.
Derry reveals the presence of acid burns on his ______.
Mr. Lamb enjoys sitting in the garden, watching the clouds and listening to the ______.
Derry expresses a need to leave abruptly, fearing the judgments and ______ of others.
Mr. Lamb encourages Derry to confront societal judgments and ______.
Derry's decision to return to Mr. Lamb's garden highlights the importance of overcoming ______.
The emotional moment at the end of the play involves Derry weeping over Mr. Lamb's ______.
Question: Mr. Lamb cautions Derry to "mind the ______" in the garden.
Answer: apples
Question: Derry expresses a desire for a place like Mr. Lamb's garden, a sanctuary for ______.
Answer: himself
Question: Mr. Lamb compares the diversity of life to the various flowers and ______ in his garden.
Answer: weeds
Question: Derry compares himself to the fairy tale of Beauty and the ______.
Answer: Beast
Question: Mr. Lamb mentions, "There’s nothing God made that doesn’t ______ me."
Answer: interest
Question: Derry fears that people are afraid of him because of his physical ______.
Answer: appearance
Question: Mr. Lamb shares his perspective on beauty, saying, "Beauty and the ______. It’s all relative."
Answer: beast
Question: Derry expresses his aversion to being near people due to their potential ______.
Answer: reactions
Question: Mr. Lamb describes his missing leg as having been taken away in a bomb ______.
Answer: blast
Question: Derry reveals the presence of acid burns on his ______.
Answer: face
Question: Mr. Lamb enjoys sitting in the garden, watching the clouds and listening to the ______.
Answer: wind
Question: Derry expresses a need to leave abruptly, fearing the judgments and ______ of others.
Answer: stares
Question: Mr. Lamb encourages Derry to confront societal judgments and ______.
Answer: stereotypes
Question: Derry's decision to return to Mr. Lamb's garden highlights the importance of overcoming ______.
Answer: prejudices
Question: The emotional moment at the end of the play involves Derry weeping over Mr. Lamb's ______.
Answer: fall
