"Richard Cory," a poem from The Children of the Night, remains among Robinson's enduring works, capturing the poignant disparity between appearance and reality during the economic depression of 1893. The poem paints a vivid contrast between Richard Cory and the townsfolk who, amidst the hardships of a struggling economy, could scarcely afford meat and subsisted mainly on bread—oftentimes stale and marked down. Richard's presence highlighted this divide, his perceived grandeur making the townspeople view him almost as a noble figure.

The Unassuming Gentleman

Despite Richard Cory's modest attire and his approachable demeanor—he was noted to be "always human when he talked"—the townspeople maintained a wide gulf between themselves and him. Distinct phrases chosen by the narrator, such as "crown," "imperially," and "grace," reveal the underlying awe and reverence they felt. Yet, they never paused to ponder the motivations behind Cory's attempts to blend in or to extend simple greetings like "good morning" during his visits.

The Isolation of Wealth

While Richard was affluent, his name subtly suggests an emptiness within, a lack of fulfillment. His considerable attempts at forging connections bore little fruit, as his wealth became a barrier, casting a long shadow over his social life. He was surrounded by riches but lived in solitude. Ironically, while the townspeople longed for his material wealth, Richard yearned for the communal bonds they shared, the richness of their shared existence. This mutual misconception underscores the townspeople's blindness to the true value of their interconnected lives.

A Life Lost to Loneliness

One stiflingly hot summer night, without the relief of electric fans or air conditioners, Richard Cory found himself awake, wrestling with an inner turmoil. The oppressive loneliness that blanketed his life led him to a tragic conclusion. In taking his own life, Richard revealed a profound truth—that his existence, seemingly "richer than a king," demanded a toll far beyond monetary measure. The town's inability to grasp this broader, human cost of wealth and isolation offers a powerful commentary on the nature of human connection and the superficial allure of wealth.