Many times in life things are not as they appear to be. People or events may appear to be one way, but, in reality, are the opposite. First impressions may not always be the correct ones. The story, The Scarlet Pimpernel, by Baroness Orczy, illustrates the theme of appearance versus reality. In appearance, Sir Percy Blakeney was a fool. Sir Percy's dress and mannerism looked foolish. He laughed inappropriately and he did not appear to …showed first 75 words of 370 total…

…showed last 75 words of 370 total…not even be their true selves with each other. This caused great unhappiness in their lives together. If they had been honest with each other in the beginning, they would have been much happier. Many people, in their relationships with others, hide behind "masks". This can cause hard feelings and misunderstandings. If everyone could be honest with each other and not try to hide their feelings the world would be a better place to live.