A well written poem may be read numerous times without losing its freshness because each word has been carefully chosen for both its literal and implied meanings. No words are included that do not add extra dimensions to the meaning of the poem. By critically examing the poem "Richard Cory", we can see that the poet, Edwin Arlington Robinson, has used effective diction to create a contrast which focuses reader attention on one aspect of human behavior: appearances do not always reflect a true picture of man's inner self.
             The poet chooses words that highlight the contrast between Richard Cory (upper class) and us (lower classes). First, the "Richard" can be associated with English kings. The name "Cory" rhymes with "glory" and subtly blends with "crown", "imperially", and "gentlemen" to imply nobility. OTher usages that help to set Richard Cory apart from us are "clean favored", "quietly arrayed", "admirably schooled", and "glittered when he walked". This description of Richard Cory suggests an imposing, highborn personage. By contrast, we "people on the pavement" continue to work and wait for the "light" that will perhaps, somehow, explain our fate.
             The poet also uses overstatement and understatement to reinforce the ironic contrast of the poem. Two examples of hyperbole and understatement, respectively, are "richer that a king", and "he was always human when he talked". The first example overstates his wealth by compairing it to a king's. The second understates his relationship to "people of the pavement" because it implies that Richard Cory could be superhuman. Both examples serve to amplify Cory's greatness compared to other people's lowliness.
             The contrast between Richard Cory (or what he seems to be) and the speaker helps to build the reader's anticipation for the surprising, ironic ending. The reader is shocked into contemplation: why does a man so admired and so rich "put a bullet through his head"? The answer...