On the Face of It by Susan Hill
Introduction:
The play "Mr Lamb's Garden" starts with Derry entering Mr Lamb's garden, initially thinking it's an
empty place. Mr Lamb warns him about the crab apples and engages him in conversation. Derry is
initially startled but eventually opens up about his insecurities regarding his appearance due to a
disfiguring injury.
Derry's Insecurities and Interaction with Mr Lamb:
Derry expresses his fear and frustration about how people perceive him based on his appearance. He
believes that everyone is afraid of him and feels isolated because of it. Mr Lamb, however, tries to
engage him in conversation, showing genuine interest in Derry as a person rather than focusing on
his disfigurement. Despite Derry's initial reluctance, he finds comfort in Mr Lamb's acceptance and
the tranquillity of the garden.
Themes Explored:
Isolation and Acceptance: Derry's interaction with Mr Lamb highlights the theme of isolation due to
physical appearance and the importance of acceptance and understanding.
Self-Perception: Derry's internal struggle with self-perception and societal judgment reflects the
theme of how individuals perceive themselves in relation to societal norms.
Empathy and Compassion: Mr Lamb's compassionate attitude towards Derry despite his
disfigurement emphasizes the theme of empathy and compassion towards others, regardless of their
appearance or background.
Climax and Resolution:
The climax occurs when Derry returns to Mr Lamb's garden after his mother forbids him from going
back. Unfortunately, he finds Mr Lamb injured from a fall. Derry's emotional reaction to Mr Lamb's
injury underscores the bond they formed, transcending Derry's initial fears and insecurities.
Commentary:
The play explores the profound impact of acceptance and empathy on individuals facing social
ostracization due to physical differences. Derry's journey from fear and isolation to finding solace and
companionship in Mr Lamb's garden highlights the transformative power of genuine human
connection. Through Mr Lamb's character, the play suggests that true acceptance stems from
understanding and compassion rather than superficial judgments based on appearance. Additionally,
the tragic ending serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of human connections and the
importance of cherishing them while they last.
Plot Overview:
The play "Mr Lamb's Garden" centres around the encounter between two characters, Derry and Mr
Lamb, in the latter's garden. Derry, a young boy with a disfigured face due to acid burns, enters Mr
Lamb's garden initially out of curiosity. Mr Lamb, an elderly man with a prosthetic leg, engages Derry
in conversation, showing kindness and acceptance towards him despite his appearance.
As the interaction unfolds, Derry opens up about his insecurities and feelings of isolation, expressing
his frustration at being judged by others based on his looks. Mr Lamb, on the other hand, offers
Derry solace and companionship, encouraging him to see beyond societal prejudices and appreciate
the beauty of life.
The climax occurs when Derry returns to Mr Lamb's garden after his mother forbids him from going
back. He finds Mr Lamb injured from a fall, leading to a poignant moment of emotional connection
between the two characters. Despite Derry's initial fears and insecurities, his bond with Mr Lamb
transcends physical appearances, highlighting the transformative power of genuine human
connection.
Critical Commentary on Characters:
Derry: Derry is portrayed as a young boy grappling with profound insecurities and social isolation due
to his disfigured face. His character arc revolves around his journey from fear and self-doubt to
finding acceptance and companionship in Mr Lamb's garden. Derry's vulnerability and raw emotions
make him a sympathetic character, eliciting empathy from the audience. Through Derry's
experiences, the play explores themes of self-perception, societal judgment, and the universal desire
for acceptance.
Mr Lamb: Mr Lamb emerges as a compassionate and wise figure who offers Derry solace and
understanding in his time of need. Despite his own physical limitations, Mr Lamb demonstrates
empathy towards Derry, treating him with kindness and acceptance. His character serves as a symbol
of unconditional love and acceptance, challenging societal norms and prejudices. Through Mr Lamb,
the play celebrates the transformative power of human connection and the importance of empathy
in fostering meaningful relationships.
Derry's Mother: Derry's mother is depicted as a concerned parent who worries about her son's well-
being and safety. Her character reflects societal attitudes towards individuals with physical
disabilities, as evidenced by her reluctance to let Derry return to Mr Lamb's garden. While her
intentions may be rooted in concern for Derry's welfare, her actions inadvertently contribute to his
sense of isolation and longing for acceptance. Derry's mother represents the external pressures and
judgments that individuals like Derry face in society, highlighting the need for greater empathy and
understanding towards those who are different.
