RICHARD CORY Video by Simon & Garfunkel (1966)
 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=euuCiSY0qYs
 

“They say that Richard Cory owns one half of this whole town
With political connections to spread his wealth around
Born into society, a banker’s only child
He had everything a man could want: power, grace, and style

The papers print his picture almost everywhere he goes
Richard Cory at the opera, Richard Cory at a show
And the rumor of his parties and the orgies on his yacht!
Oh he surely must be happy with everything he’s got

He freely gave to charity, he had the common touch
And they were grateful for his patronage and they thanked him very much
So my mind was filled with wonder when the evening headlines read:
“Richard Cory went home last night and put a bullet through his head

Chorus:

I work in his factory
And I curse the life I’m living
And I curse my poverty
And I wish that I could be
Oh I wish that I could be
Oh I wish that I could be
Richard Cory

Created from the poem "Richard Cory" by Edwin Arlington Robinson- 1897

COMMENT:

The world is filled with millions of Richard Cory’s. They are the politicians, businessmen, financiers, film stars, celebrities, sports personnel and the “who’s who” that fill the tabloids, magazines and TV programs. These are the people we are supposed to emulate and look up to so that the relentless materialistic world is ensured as everyone seeks greater and greater wealth and stature. However – “Does this lifestyle really make you happy?”

many people who live that lifestyle would tell you how lonely they are – they feel the envy of others -who should they trust? What bigger fish would overtake him and have him for lunch? Who to leave all their riches to? Not that ungrateful only son… Oh No! Many hide from the limelight just to keep their privacy and sanity.

What is usually missing in their lives is “meaning” and “spiritual fulfillment”. This fact becomes most evident as they get older and reflect on their lives and see that they are in the twilight of their years – not able to take their worldly riches with them. It can be a really sad sight to see the vacant look and emptiness in their eyes as they face the inevitable day that everyone will eventually face.

Whether you work for a Richard Cory or read about one, do not want to be like him… You do not know the demons he has to live with. Be yourself and be contented with your station in life, always striving to be a better person. Do not envy others for what material goods or lifestyles they have. Look inward to find the real you and find the universal energy force that will give you inner strength to deal with the travails of daily life.

– Cyril Bryan – cybryan@gmail.com