---
type: "Chapter"
knowledge_type: "chapter"
entity_type: "chapter"
id: "66defde63f8b4e9e69bdfaed"
title: "On the face of It"
board: "CBSE"
curriculum: "CBSE"
class: "Class 12"
subject: "English"
book: "Vistas"
chapter: "On the face of It"
chapter_slug: "on-the-face-of-it"
canonical_url: "https://www.edzy.ai/cbse-class-12-english-vistas-on-the-face-of-it"
markdown_url: "https://www.edzy.ai/okf/chapter/cbse-class-12-english-vistas-on-the-face-of-it.md"
source_type: "examSubjectBookChapter"
source_id: "66defde63f8b4e9e69bdfaed"
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source: "Edzy"
version: 1
last_updated: "2026-06-22"
---

# On the face of It
This is a play featuring an old man and a small boy meeting in the former’s garden. The old man strikes up a friendship with the boy who is very withdrawn and defiant. What is the bond that unites the two?

## Knowledge Snapshot
| Field | Details |
| :--- | :--- |
| Class | Class 12 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | Vistas |
| Chapter | On the face of It |
| Pages | 47-61 |

## Chapter Summary
### Short Summary
The play centers on Mr. Lamb and Derry, a boy with a burned face. They engage in a conversation that explores themes of beauty, acceptance, and the human condition.

### Detailed Summary
In Mr. Lamb's garden, Derry, who feels alienated due to his appearance, initially distrusts Mr. Lamb. However, as they converse, Mr. Lamb encourages Derry to see the beauty in life beyond physical appearances, emphasizing that one's worth is not defined by looks. Derry grapples with societal perceptions and his fear of rejection. Despite his difficulties, he is drawn to Mr. Lamb’s open-heartedness and unconventional philosophy. The play concludes ambiguously with Derry expressing a desire to return to the garden.

## Topic-Wise Explanation
### Introduction to Characters
The characters consist of Mr. Lamb, an elderly man, and Derry, a young boy. Mr. Lamb is welcoming and philosophical, while Derry is confused and withdrawn. Their interactions highlight the contrast between acceptance and societal rejection.

### Derry's Background and Isolation
Derry feels isolated due to his disfigurement from acid burns, leading him to distrust people's reactions and intentions towards him.

### Mr. Lamb's Perspective
Mr. Lamb presents a positive outlook on life, challenging Derry to reconsider his self-perception and fears regarding societal judgment.

### The Friendship Development
The friendship evolves through their dialogue, as Derry begins to connect with Mr. Lamb's perspective, which encourages him to confront his fears.

### Conflict and Emotional Resonance
The emotional conflict lies in Derry's struggle with societal perceptions and his internal acceptance of himself. Mr. Lamb serves as a guiding figure, pushing Derry towards self-acceptance.

### Conclusion and Future Implications
The play ends with an ambiguous note about Derry's decision to return, suggesting a potential change in his outlook on life and relationships.

## Character Analysis
### Mr. Lamb
Mr. Lamb is an optimistic figure who attempts to instill a sense of confidence in Derry despite their physical differences. He embodies resilience and offers wisdom through his perspective on life.

### Derry
Derry is initially conflicted and resentful towards societal views on his appearance. His journey throughout the play illustrates the impact of isolation and the potential for growth through connection.

## Core Ideas
| Idea | Explanation |
| :--- | :--- |
| Acceptance | Acceptance of oneself and others regardless of physical appearance is a central theme.
| The Nature of Beauty | The play questions traditional notions of beauty by emphasizing inner qualities over superficial judgments.

## Key Concepts
| Concept | Meaning |
| :--- | :--- |
| Alienation | A feeling of isolation stemming from societal rejection due to physical differences.
| Friendship | The process of developing trust and connection despite initial apprehensions.

## Important Points for Revision
* Derry's burns affect his self-image and interactions with others.
* Mr. Lamb's philosophy challenges societal norms about beauty.
* The significance of nature in the garden as a metaphor for acceptance and growth.
* The emotional dynamics between Derry and Mr. Lamb.
* The ambiguous ending suggests future possibilities for Derry.

## Vocabulary and Glossary
| Word / Phrase | Meaning |
| :--- | :--- |
| Alienation | The state of feeling isolated and detached from others. |
| Withdrawn | Secluded or reluctant to engage socially. |

## Practice Questions
### Short Answer Questions
1. Who are the main characters in the play?
2. What does Derry believe about people's views on his appearance?
3. How does Mr. Lamb respond to Derry's fears?
4. What metaphor does Mr. Lamb use to challenge Derry's perceptions?
5. Describe the setting of the play.

### Long Answer Questions
1. Discuss how Mr. Lamb's perspective influences Derry's character development.
2. Analyze the theme of acceptance in the context of societal standards of beauty.
3. Explore the significance of the garden as a symbol in the play.

## Related Concepts
* Friendship
* Society and Isolation
* Perception of Beauty

## Source Attribution
| Field | Value |
| :--- | :--- |
| Source | Edzy |
| Reference Type | examSubjectBookChapter |
| Reference ID | 66defde63f8b4e9e69bdfaed |
| Canonical URL | https://www.edzy.ai/cbse-class-12-english-vistas-on-the-face-of-it |
| Markdown URL | https://www.edzy.ai/okf/chapter/cbse-class-12-english-vistas-on-the-face-of-it.md |