Q: What is the theme of the play On the Face of it?

Ans: The play shows that handicapped people suffer from a sense of
loneliness. The main theme is that appearances are deceptive. Lamb is
regarded as an eccentric man. However, he is very kind and generous. He
longs for human companionship. Similarly, Derry appears to be an ugly
boy with a huge scar on his face. No one loves him. He is the object of
ridicule and neglect. However, he is a sensitive boy who wants to love and
to be loved.
Q: Sketch the character of Mr. Lamb.
Ans: Mr. Lamb is an interesting character in the play. He has a positive
outlook on life. Though he has lost one leg in a war, he is not miserable.
Mr. Lamb lives alone in his house. Children make fun of him.
However, he never feels offended. He loves human companionship. His
windows have no curtains. His house is open to all.
Mr. Lamb is gentle and kind. When Derry strays into his garden, he
warmly welcomes him. He finds Derry depressed. Derry always thinks
about the scar on his face. The old man comforts the young boy. Derry is
moved by the old mans words of comfort and wisdom. Mr. Lamb makes
such a powerful impact on him that he decides to meet him next day.
Mr. Lamb is cheerful and active. He has no regular job now.
However, he makes use of his time making jelly and jam from garden
apples. He also spends his time listening to the humming of bees and
reading good books. It is unfortunate that he dies in the fall from the
ladder.