Question 1

What is it that draws Derry towards Mr Lamb inspite of himself?

Accepted Answer

Derry is drawn towards Mr Lamb because of the unique connection he feels with him. Despite his initial reluctance and the fear of being judged for his burned face, Derry finds comfort in Mr Lamb's acceptance and the peacefulness of the garden. Mr Lamb's calm demeanor and the natural surroundings provide Derry with a sense of belonging and hope that he does not find elsewhere. — The text shows that Derry is fascinated by Mr Lamb's outlook on life and his acceptance of his own disability. This draws Derry, who himself feels isolated due to his appearance, towards Mr Lamb. The garden and Mr Lamb's company offer a refuge from the judgmental world outside.

Question 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?

Accepted Answer

Mr Lamb displays signs of loneliness and disappointment primarily in the first scene of the play, especially when he talks about people not coming back and his solitary life in the garden. He tries to overcome these feelings by engaging with visitors, asking questions, learning from them, and taking care of his bees and garden. These activities give him purpose and a way to connect with the world despite his isolation. — The dialogue in Scene One reveals Mr Lamb's loneliness when he mentions that people never come back and his life is solitary. His interaction with Derry and his tending to the bees show his coping mechanisms to deal with his isolation.

Question 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?

Accepted Answer

A person with a physical impairment expects understanding, acceptance, and respect from others rather than pity or fear. They want others to treat them as equals and not define them solely by their disability. Empathy and genuine interaction help reduce the sense of alienation more than sympathy or avoidance. — The play highlights that the emotional and social alienation caused by others' reactions is more painful than the physical impairment itself. Mr Lamb's attitude towards his disability and his interaction with Derry illustrate the importance of acceptance and normalcy in social behaviour.

Question 4

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?

Accepted Answer

The play suggests that Mr Lamb's brief association with Derry will positively influence Derry's life. Although Derry initially struggles with his identity and isolation, the acceptance and wisdom he gains from Mr Lamb encourage him to face the world with hope and courage. The ending, where Derry returns to help Mr Lamb, symbolizes his willingness to engage with life rather than retreat into seclusion. — Derry's decision to come back despite fears and warnings indicates a change in his attitude. Mr Lamb's philosophy and kindness inspire Derry to seek connection and meaning beyond his physical limitations and social isolation.

Question 5

Using your imagination to suggest another ending to the above story.

Accepted Answer

An alternative ending could be that after Mr Lamb falls from the ladder, Derry immediately calls for help and stays with him until assistance arrives. This experience strengthens their bond, and Derry decides to visit Mr Lamb regularly, helping him with the garden and learning life lessons. Over time, Derry gains confidence and overcomes his insecurities about his face, leading to a more hopeful and connected life. — This imaginative ending emphasizes themes of friendship, courage, and overcoming adversity. It provides a positive resolution where both characters benefit from their relationship, highlighting the importance of support and acceptance.

Question 6

Who are the two main characters in the play 'On The Face Of It' by Susan Hill?

Accepted Answer

Mr Lamb and Derry — The play features two main characters: Mr Lamb, an old man, and Derry, a small boy. Their interaction forms the core of the play.

Question 7

What is the setting of the play 'On The Face Of It'?

Accepted Answer

Mr Lamb's garden — The play is set primarily in Mr Lamb's garden, which symbolizes openness and refuge for the characters.

Question 8

What physical injury does Derry have in the play?

Accepted Answer

Acid burns on his face — Derry reveals that he has acid burns on one side of his face, which have permanently disfigured him.

Question 9

What injury has Mr Lamb suffered?

Accepted Answer

Lost a leg in the war — Mr Lamb lost his leg in the war and now wears a tin leg, which he refers to in the play.

Question 10

Why does Derry say people are afraid of him?

Accepted Answer

Because of his burned face — Derry explains that people are afraid when they see his burned face, which causes him to feel isolated and rejected.

Question 11

What metaphor does Mr Lamb use to explain the difference between 'weeds' and 'flowers' in the garden?

Accepted Answer

Both are living plants but labeled differently — Mr Lamb points out that weeds and flowers are both living plants, questioning why one is considered bad and the other good, symbolizing human differences.

Question 12

How does Mr Lamb respond when Derry says people stare at his face?

Accepted Answer

He says some people stare at crab apples or sunflowers too — Mr Lamb normalizes staring by saying people stare at many things, like crab apples or sunflowers, implying that staring is natural and not always negative.

Question 13

What does Mr Lamb mean by saying "Beauty and the beast" is "all relative"?

Accepted Answer

Beauty and ugliness depend on perspective — Mr Lamb suggests that what is considered beautiful or ugly is relative and subjective, challenging Derry's fixed ideas about appearance.

Question 14

Why does Derry say he hates being kissed by his mother?

Accepted Answer

Because she kisses him only on the unburned side — Derry feels uncomfortable because his mother kisses him only on the side of his face that is not burned, which makes him feel rejected.

Question 15

What is Mr Lamb's attitude towards people who stare or are afraid of physical differences?

Accepted Answer

He is not afraid and accepts differences openly — Mr Lamb openly accepts his disability and is not afraid of people staring; he believes in openness and acceptance.

On The Face Of It Susan Hill Before you read

On The Face Of It Susan Hill Before you read — Study Notes

Before you read

SCENE ONE

Derry’s revelation and Mr Lamb’s perspective

Practice Questions — On The Face Of It Susan Hill Before you read

All 6 Chapters in Vistas