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EnglishClass 12On The Face Of It Susan Hill Before you read

On The Face Of It Susan Hill Before you read | Class 12 English Notes

By ConceptScroll Team · Published on 17 July 2026 · 3 min read

On The Face Of It Susan Hill Before you read – this guide gives you a concise, exam-ready overview of On The Face Of It Susan Hill Before you read from Class 12 English, written by ConceptScroll editors and reviewed against the latest NCERT textbook.

Derry’s revelation and Mr Lamb’s perspective

In this part of Scene One, Derry reveals the cause of his facial scars—acid burns that have permanently altered his appearance. His words convey deep pain and a sense of hopelessness about changing how he looks. Mr Lamb listens attentively and responds with empathy, emphasizing that he is interested in Derry as a person, not just his appearance. Mr Lamb introduces a philosophical reflection on the nature of life and beauty by pointing to the garden’s weeds and flowers, questioning why some plants are labeled as 'weeds' and others as 'flowers' when all are living things. This metaphor extends to human beings, suggesting that external differences should not determine value or acceptance. Mr Lamb shares his own experience of losing a leg in the war and being nicknamed 'Lamey-Lamb' by children, but he does not let this define him. The dialogue challenges societal prejudices and encourages looking beyond physical appearances to appreciate inner qualities. Mr Lamb’s calm and accepting attitude contrasts with Derry’s self-loathing and fear of rejection, highlighting the potential for healing through understanding and friendship.

📊 Diagram: Visuals include images of crab apples and the garden’s natural elements, reinforcing the metaphor of life’s diversity (See img-2.jpeg).

🧪 Activity: Reflective activity: Students can be encouraged to think about and discuss the metaphor of weeds and flowers in relation to human differences.

🔗 Connection: This section deepens the thematic exploration of acceptance and leads to further dialogue about societal attitudes and personal fears.

Frequently asked questions

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

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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?

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.

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