“RICHARD CORY”

“There's nothing wrong with enjoying looking at the surface of the ocean itself, except that

when you finally see what goes on under-water, you realize that you've been missing the whole point of the ocean. Staying on the surface all the time is like going to the circus

and staring at the outside of the tent.” 

What does this quote mean to you? Does it recall to mind any situation? Write what you’re thinking after you read it—don’t

overthink.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

WHO IS THIS?

With a partner, analyze the poem “Richard Cory.” Annotate the poem and complete the 5 questions on your sheet.

**Challenge question: Consider the purpose of the poem’s brevity. How may this contribute to the theme of the poem?

POETRY ANALYSIS

• 1869-1935• led a notoriously solitary lifestyle.• First published in 1897.• Simon & Garfunkel recorded a song

called “Richard Cory” based on this poem.

A LOOK AT THE AUTHOR: EDWIN ARLINGTON

ROBINSON

“I shall have more to say when I am dead.”-Edwin Arlington Robinson

This quote is a commentary on hindsight. Looking back on the short 16 or 17 years that you have lived so far, write down one life lesson you have learned and now carry with you. Only write it down if you actually believe it and try your best to learn from it. If you have a Twitter, consider tweeting it; why not put something positive out there?

WARM UP DAY 2

1. Why do you think this poem follows a rhyme scheme? How would it be different if it were free verse; would that change the meaning at all?

2. Why is the poem so short? Why is that worth noting?

3. Based on the wording of this poem, whose fault is it that Richard Cory’s life ended in tragedy? Were the people too judgmental or was he actually not “human” enough?

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS