Analyzing Harryette Mullen's Poem 'Elliptical'

In the poem “Elliptical” author Harryette Mullen used many poem elements to develop her unique writing. Some of Mullen’s techniques were a shift and an important type of connotation. These were used to develop not only her point of view but the message she wanted to give the readers. The theme ,or message, Mullen portrayed in this poem can be separation or prejudice. Although the title does not directly refer to this, it does connect to how the author justifies her message. Mullen also uses ellipsis in her poem. The use of ellipsis helped develop the tone she was trying to portray. These three attributes helped to create her distinct poem.
Harryette Mullen once wrote a very peculiar poem. She titled this poem “Elliptical.” Before reading this poem I had no clue what it could …show more content…
She used this to aid the development of the tone in her writing. Mullen’s use of connotation was repetition. She often repeated the word “they” all throughout the poem to provide emphasis. This emphasis established the attitude of negativity and judgemental. The tone of this poem can also connect to the theme she provided.
Another element included in this poem is a shift that takes place. During “Elliptical” it switches between two different point of views. The beginning of the poem shows the reasons of why these certain people are being judged so harshly. Near the end of the poem it begins describing why and how these people have been put in their respective situations. This shift helps establish the theme of prejudice or separation.
In conclusion, Harryette Mullen wrote a very unusual type of poem. Mullen was also able to express her feelings in a creative and positive way. She used multiple elements to establish her attitude and point of view on this subject, and gave two different viewpoints on the subject. This poem truly showed to not judge a book by its cover because not everyone has received an equal