Have you ever felt judged by your appearance or struggled to connect with others? Susan Hill’s On the Face of It captures the raw emotions of two characters facing isolation due to physical differences. This poignant short story explores acceptance, prejudice, and human connection through the unlikely bond between a disfigured man and a withdrawn boy. In this article, you’ll discover a detailed summary of On the Face of It, its key themes, character insights, and why it resonates with readers today.
Table of Contents
Overview of On the Face of It
Susan Hill’s On the Face of It is a touching narrative about Derry, a young boy with a scarred face, and Mr. Lamb, an elderly man with a tin leg, who meet in Mr. Lamb’s garden. The story unfolds as they share their experiences of societal rejection and form a fragile bond. Derry, self-conscious about his burn scars, initially resists Mr. Lamb’s warmth, but the older man’s optimism challenges his worldview.
The story’s setting—a quiet garden—serves as a safe space for their dialogue. Through their interaction, Hill examines how physical differences shape identity and relationships. The summary of On the Face of It reveals a story that’s less about plot twists and more about emotional depth, inviting readers to reflect on their own biases.
A Moment of Connection
The pivotal moment comes when Mr. Lamb encourages Derry to embrace life despite his scars. This exchange is raw and heartfelt, showing how empathy can bridge divides. The story ends tragically, leaving readers to ponder the fragility of human connections.
Tip: When reading, note how Hill uses dialogue to reveal character emotions subtly. It’s a masterclass in “showing, not telling.”
Key Themes in the Story
The summary of On the Face of It highlights several universal themes that resonate deeply. The most prominent is acceptance. Both Derry and Mr. Lamb face societal prejudice due to their physical appearances, yet Mr. Lamb chooses openness over bitterness, contrasting with Derry’s initial despair.
Isolation vs. Connection
Isolation is a central theme. Derry’s self-imposed exile stems from fear of judgment, while Mr. Lamb’s garden symbolizes a space for connection. Hill suggests that human bonds can heal emotional wounds, even if temporarily.
Quote: “You’ve got a face. It’s got a bit burnt, but it’s still a face,” Mr. Lamb tells Derry, emphasizing that identity transcends physical flaws.
Prejudice and Perception
The story critiques how society judges based on appearances. Derry’s scars and Mr. Lamb’s tin leg make them outsiders, yet their inner lives are rich and complex. Hill challenges readers to look beyond the surface.
Did You Know? Studies show that 60% of people form first impressions based on appearance within seconds (Psychology Today).
Character Analysis
Understanding the characters is key to grasping the summary of On the Face of It. Derry and Mr. Lamb are opposites in outlook but united by their experiences of exclusion.
Derry: The Wounded Youth
Derry, a teenager, is defined by his burn scars. His bitterness stems from cruel comments and stares, making him distrustful. His encounter with Mr. Lamb sparks a shift, showing him that self-worth isn’t tied to appearance.
Character Insight: Derry’s arc reflects the struggle of many teens facing body image issues, making him relatable to younger readers.
Mr. Lamb: The Optimistic Outcast
Mr. Lamb, an older man with a prosthetic leg, exudes positivity despite his own hardships. His open garden and welcoming nature symbolize his refusal to let disability define him. He serves as a mentor to Derry, offering wisdom and hope.
| Character | Traits | Role in Story |
|---|---|---|
| Derry | Insecure, withdrawn | Represents youth and self-doubt |
| Mr. Lamb | Optimistic, open | Guides Derry toward acceptance |
Symbolism and Literary Devices
The summary of On the Face of It is enriched by Hill’s use of symbolism and literary techniques. The garden, for instance, symbolizes a haven where societal judgments are suspended. It’s a place where Derry and Mr. Lamb can be themselves.
The Garden as a Symbol
The garden represents openness and growth. Mr. Lamb’s willingness to let anyone enter mirrors his philosophy of embracing life. The apples Derry picks symbolize small acts of connection that can bear fruit over time.
Dialogue and Subtext
Hill’s dialogue is layered with subtext. For example, Mr. Lamb’s casual remarks about weeds and flowers challenge Derry’s black-and-white view of beauty. This technique makes the story thought-provoking and emotionally engaging.
Tip: Pay attention to the metaphors in Mr. Lamb’s speech, like comparing people to flowers, to uncover deeper meanings.
LitCharts offers a detailed breakdown of these literary devices for further reading.
Why the Story Matters Today
Why does On the Face of It remain relevant? Its themes of acceptance and prejudice are timeless, especially in an era of social media, where appearance often dictates online interactions. The summary of On the Face of It reminds us to challenge snap judgments and foster empathy.
Relevance to Modern Issues
Today, body shaming and mental health struggles are prevalent. Derry’s story mirrors the experiences of those facing societal pressure to conform. Mr. Lamb’s resilience offers a model for overcoming adversity.
Statistic: A 2023 survey found that 65% of teens feel judged based on their appearance (Teen Mental Health).
Lessons for Readers
The story encourages self-acceptance and kindness. It’s a call to create spaces—like Mr. Lamb’s garden—where people feel valued for who they are, not how they look. Readers are inspired to reflect on their own biases and actions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of On the Face of It?
The main theme is acceptance, focusing on overcoming societal prejudice and embracing self-worth despite physical differences. The story highlights human connection as a path to healing.
Who are the main characters in On the Face of It?
Derry, a teen with facial scars, and Mr. Lamb, an elderly man with a tin leg, are the protagonists. Their bond drives the story’s emotional core.
What does the garden symbolize in On the Face of It?
The garden symbolizes a safe space for acceptance and growth, where societal judgments are set aside, allowing genuine human connection.
Why is On the Face of It relevant today?
The story addresses timeless issues like prejudice and self-acceptance, resonating with modern challenges like body shaming and mental health awareness.
How does Susan Hill use symbolism in On the Face of It?
Hill uses symbols like the garden and apples to represent acceptance and connection, enhancing the story’s emotional and thematic depth.
Conclusion
The summary of On the Face of It reveals a powerful story about overcoming prejudice and finding connection. Susan Hill masterfully weaves themes of acceptance, isolation, and resilience through Derry and Mr. Lamb’s encounter. The garden, a symbol of hope, reminds us to create spaces for empathy. This story challenges readers to look beyond appearances and embrace kindness. Want to dive deeper? Re-read the story or share your thoughts in the comments below!
