![]() ![]() 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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