What are the character traits for Richard Cory in the poem "Richard Cory"? What is the mood in "Richard Cory"? What qualities does he possess that makes him memorable?

Have you read it? Read it many times ... more than 4 or 5 times. Read it aloud. Then let us know what YOU THINK.

http://www.poetryfoundation.org/poem/174248

In the poem "Richard Cory" by Edwin Arlington Robinson, Richard Cory's character traits can be inferred through his actions and the way others perceive him. To identify these traits, we need to examine the descriptions provided in the poem.

1. Character Traits of Richard Cory:
The poem portrays Richard Cory as someone who appears flawless, both in his external appearance and the way he conducts himself. Some character traits associated with Richard Cory include:

- Wealthy: The poem describes him as "richer than a king," suggesting that he is financially affluent.
- Socially esteemed: The townspeople "wished that they were in his place" and looked up to him with admiration.
- Polished and refined: Richard Cory's appearance is described as "imperially slim" and "quietly arrayed." This implies he carries himself with elegance and dignity.
- Mysterious: Richard Cory's thoughts and emotions are not directly revealed in the poem, adding an element of enigma to his character.

2. Mood in "Richard Cory":
The mood established in the poem shifts from admiration and envy to surprise and despair. Initially, the tone is one of awe and admiration towards Richard Cory. However, the mood abruptly changes in the final lines when the townspeople discover his shocking fate, which creates an atmosphere of despair and introspection.

3. Qualities that make Richard Cory memorable:
Richard Cory possesses qualities that make him memorable due to the stark contrast between his outward appearance and his inner struggles. These qualities include:

- Unattainable happiness: Richard Cory's wealth and social status don't necessarily guarantee personal contentment. His outward success, combined with the unexpected twist at the end of the poem, makes him memorable.
- Perceived perfection: Richard Cory is seen as flawless and superior by the townspeople, which adds to his memorable character.
- The impact of appearances: The poem serves as a reminder that appearances can be deceiving, urging us to look beyond surface-level judgments and consider the hidden complexities of others.

To gain a deeper understanding of Richard Cory's character and the mood of the poem, it's always helpful to read and analyze the poem yourself.