The poem ends with this image and does not try to discern Cory's reasons. Despite all his riches and the status they afford him, Cory shoots himself in the head "one calm summer night" (Line 15). The character of Richard Cory suffers in a different kind of way. That they go "without meat, and the bread" references the Panic of 1893, an economic depression in the United States that affected almost every sector. In other words, they await relief from their suffering and a chance to stand in the perceived light of wealth and status. They work continuously, " for the light" (Line 13). It is clear that in comparison to Cory, the townspeople struggle financially. This is due to the fact that he is "richer than a king" and is "admirably schooled in every grace" (Lines 9-10). The speaker, who represents the collective views of the townspeople, states that the community wishes to be in Cory's place (Line 12). This reading supports the poem's efforts to demystify outward appearance as a replica of one's mental or emotional state. Cory's suicide can therefore be interpreted as a response to the public image that was thrust upon him. It is the townspeople who turn Cory into an idol. ![]() These details about Cory's appearance suggest that he approaches life with humility, grace, and perhaps even a desire to be part of the common crowd. For example, the speaker notes that Cory is "quietly arrayed" and is "always human" when he talks (Lines 5-6). Despite the townspeople's fascination with Cory's mannerisms and wealth, he is described as being quite humble. Origins of a Public ImageĬory's image as a demigod who " when he " is not necessarily cultivated by Cory himself (Line 8). There is nobody to see his true internal state: his core (hence the name Cory). The townspeople only see Cory as rich, hence his first name "Richard." Because of this idol-worshipping behavior, Cory cannot truly connect with anyone. ![]() The name " Richard Cory" itself addresses the theme of private versus public life. The poem can therefore be read as a warning not to take things only at face value. Despite (or perhaps because of) Cory's perfect image, he suffers from severe psychological distress that ultimately leads to him taking his own life. That the poem ends here and does not delve into the reason behind Cory's suicide further underscores the ways in which one's public image and private life can be completely at odds. However, the poem's final twist describes how Cory, without warning or explanation, takes his life one summer evening. ![]() His very presence makes the townspeople's pulses race they all wish they could trade places with him. According to the speaker, Cory is a man with an enviable life: he is clean-cut, well-educated, wealthy, noble, and charismatic. The central theme of " Richard Cory" is the tragic disparity between Cory's outward appearance and his internal state. Buy Study Guide Private versus Public Life
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