Question

Who is Mr. Lamb?

• A. An old man with an artificial leg
• B. Derry's grandfather
• C. Derry's neighbour
• D. A Gardener

Hint:

In "On the Face of It," Mr. Lamb (with his tin leg) and Derry (with his burned face) are both physically disabled. However, Mr. Lamb's optimism contrasts with Derry's bitterness, showing that attitude matters more than appearance.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

This question refers to the play "On the Face of It" by Susan Hill, which is included in the Vistas textbook for Class 12 English.

About the Play:
"On the Face of It" is a poignant play that explores the themes of appearance, acceptance, and human connection. It centers around two characters — Mr. Lamb and Derry — both of whom have physical disabilities but vastly different attitudes toward life.

Who is Mr. Lamb?

Physical Description:
Mr. Lamb is an old man with an artificial leg made of tin. He lost his leg in an accident. He walks with a limp and uses a bucket to collect crab apples. The sound of his tin leg makes a "tap-tap" noise when he walks.

Personality and Character:
Despite his disability, Mr. Lamb is cheerful, optimistic, and welcoming. He lives alone in his house with a large garden filled with crab apple trees. He keeps his doors and windows open, symbolizing his open-mindedness and willingness to connect with others. He loves the sound of bees buzzing and finds joy in small things.

Role in the Story:
Mr. Lamb meets Derry, a young boy with a burned face, who has come into his garden. Derry is bitter, withdrawn, and feels rejected because of his appearance. Mr. Lamb befriends Derry and tries to change his perspective — teaching him that people are not defined by their physical appearance. He encourages Derry to look beyond the surface and find beauty in life.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

(B) Derry's grandfather:
Mr. Lamb is not related to Derry by blood; they are strangers who meet in the garden.

(C) Derry's neighbour:
Mr. Lamb lives in the neighborhood, but the text does not specify that he is Derry's immediate neighbour.

(D) A Gardener:
While Mr. Lamb has a beautiful garden and tends to it, he is not a professional gardener by occupation. He is simply an elderly man who enjoys his garden.

Final Answer: An old man with an artificial leg