Chapter 6: On the Face of It by Susan Hill
1. What is the central theme of “On the Face of It”?
Answer:
The story focuses on appearances versus reality, human isolation, the need for acceptance, and how emotional healing often begins with empathy and understanding.
2. Who are the main characters in the play?
Answer:
The story revolves around Derry, a teenage boy with a burnt face, and Mr. Lamb, an old man with a tin leg. They bond over their shared loneliness.
3. Why does Derry isolate himself from others?
Answer:
Derry feels people judge him for his burnt face. He suffers from low self-esteem and believes everyone pities or fears him, so he avoids social interaction.
4. How is Mr. Lamb different from Derry?
Answer:
Mr. Lamb is optimistic, open, and welcoming. Despite losing his leg, he lives positively and enjoys life, unlike Derry who feels bitter and withdrawn.
5. What lessons does Mr. Lamb teach Derry?
Answer:
He teaches Derry to embrace life, look beyond physical appearance, and not let others’ opinions define his self-worth. He urges Derry to be brave and open.
6. How does Mr. Lamb change Derry’s outlook?
Answer:
Through gentle conversation and storytelling, he makes Derry realize that beauty lies in how one lives and thinks—not in the face, but in the mind and actions.
7. Why does Derry come back to Mr. Lamb’s garden?
Answer:
Derry returns to prove to himself and others that he can change. Mr. Lamb’s words inspire him to take a step towards confidence and positivity.
8. How does the play challenge society’s treatment of the disabled?
Answer:
It criticizes society for being judgmental and insensitive. People often define others by their disabilities rather than their personality or potential.
9. What role does nature play in the story?
Answer:
Mr. Lamb’s garden symbolizes peace, life, and acceptance. It becomes a safe space for Derry to explore his feelings and start his emotional healing.
10. How does Derry’s attitude change by the end?
Answer:
He transforms from a bitter, self-loathing boy into someone willing to embrace life and connect with others, inspired by Mr. Lamb’s positive outlook.
11. What does Mr. Lamb’s character symbolize?
Answer:
Mr. Lamb represents wisdom, acceptance, and resilience. He is a symbol of hope, encouraging others to find strength within and appreciate life despite limitations.
12. Why is the play titled “On the Face of It”?
Answer:
The title suggests that people often judge others by appearances. It urges readers to look deeper—beyond the surface—to understand true character and value.
13. How does Mr. Lamb deal with his loneliness?
Answer:
He stays busy, keeps his garden open for visitors, and talks to children. He doesn’t let his disability isolate him but instead embraces interaction.
14. How does the play promote empathy?
Answer:
It shows that understanding someone’s pain and listening without judgment can help them heal. Mr. Lamb’s kindness changes Derry’s view of himself and the world.
15. How does the story reflect emotional healing?
Answer:
Through conversation and connection, Derry begins to heal mentally. The story shows how inner wounds can heal when met with compassion and encouragement.
16. What is the significance of the ending?
Answer:
The ending is tragic yet symbolic. Mr. Lamb’s fall and possible death emphasize life’s uncertainty and how important it is to act on positive change without delay.
17. How does the play explore inner versus outer beauty?
Answer:
It reveals that true beauty lies in kindness, courage, and attitude. While Derry’s face is scarred, his potential is beautiful once he overcomes self-doubt.
18. What is the relationship between fear and acceptance in the play?
Answer:
Derry’s fear of rejection holds him back. Mr. Lamb’s acceptance helps him fight that fear, showing how emotional support leads to self-acceptance.
19. How does society fail people like Derry and Mr. Lamb?
Answer:
Society excludes and judges them, focusing on physical differences instead of offering empathy. Their isolation is a result of social neglect, not their conditions.
20. What message does Susan Hill give through this play?
Answer:
She emphasizes that every person deserves respect and kindness, regardless of appearance. She advocates for emotional courage, connection, and looking beyond physical flaws.