Ellen Foster free essay sample

Analyzes novels motif of food as means of understanding Ellen her evolution from self-obsession to loving a black friend. This study will analyze Kaye Gibbons novel Ellen Foster, focusing on the motif of food as a means of understanding the development of the character of Ellen, specifically in terms of her ability to move from such mundane (but obviously basic) needs as food to a love for her colored friend Starletta. The preoccupation of Ellen with food serves as a recurring motif throughout the book. This motif is used by Gibbons to highlight the hunger Ellen experienced as a younger child, the continuing sense of physical and emotional insecurity which is intimately related to that lack of food, and the self-centered concerns of the character that are reflected in her obsession with food. The fact that by the end of the novel Ellen is able to finally gain some sense of herself, of security and happiness, and finally come to see the great worth of her friend is a sign