Throughout most of the novel Richard isn't physically described besides the subtle mentioning of his age in certain parts of the book such as Richards birth which suggest his birth during the 9 month journey to Sydney.
"The new baby [Richard] had been born when the Alexander put in at Cape Town in July." (Page77).
This mentions the first appearance of Richard in the novel (his birth). His name isn't used formally through most of the book, he mostly goes under the moniker 'Dick'. Through maturity Richard undergoes some notable changes. The most notable mentioned are the characteristic and personality changes. Richards's character started from shy, innocent and obedient to his father but as the story progresses Richard becomes more aware of the events occurring around him. His age helps him to become more independent and be more aware of his surrounding .
"Right up into the hillside, into the dry ticking dream of the forest. There he would spend the whole day, as if learning the place by heart." (Page 211). .
This explains how Richards's life feels tedious to him causing him to become more adventurous. Through the middle of the novel it is expected that Richard loves his family but towards the end of the novel Richard and his father have a moment of conflict between them "He pulled off his heavy leather belt and beat Dick with it. Felt his arm heavy, reluctant but would not stop. Heard the boy cry out as if surprised at each blow" (page 216). .
This moment could potentially be another reason why Richard becomes estranged from his father. After the massacre at Blackwood's ranch Richard had completely disowned his father and eventually became estranged from the 'Thornhill' name "And, while Blackwood could not meet his eyes, Dick would not" (page 326). This describes the personal tension between Richard and his father, William.
Throughout the novel different impressions are given of the characters.
