Model Student Analysis

Robinson’s “Richard Cory” A Formalistic Interpretation

1. In Edwin Arlington Robinson's brief poem "Richard Cory," the

dominant theme appears to be money, charm, and popularity.

2. The outward appearance can be deceiving. Richard Cory was

admired by the community's members, who aspired to be like him.
They wanted to step into Richard Cory's shoes to see what it's like
to be wealthy, charming, and well-known. They had no idea what
Richard was going through, however.

3. The piece may appear to be OK at first, but it began to reveal the

truth when it was revealed that Richard Cory committed suicide in
the poem.

4. Richard was miserable, despite the fact that the villagers admired
him for who he was. Richard's wealth and celebrity didn't help him
get through his ordeal. And he was having some difficulties with it.
When the townspeople found out what had happened to Richard,
they were shocked.

5. At times, outward appearances might be deceiving. The poem's

moral was to avoid being materialistic. Rather, the message was
that even if a person has everything, something is wrong with
them, leading them to suffer without their knowledge. So, while
you're with your loved ones, don't forget to ask how he or she is
doing and soothe them. You’ll never know what they are going
through in silence.