Societal Perceptions in ‘Richard Cory’ and ‘Barbie Doll’

Introduction

To fully understand the form in poetry, it is essential to analyze the intricate relationship between the central themes and how these themes influence the poem's progression and its interconnected parts. In this context, two compelling poems, “Richard Cory” by Edwin Arlington Robinson and “Barbie Doll” by Marge Piercy, serve as significant examples for exploring the structure, form, styles, and various poetic devices employed by the poets. These works use imagery as a powerful tool for the world to view and judge individuals, often at the subjects' expense.

Through the use of irony, metaphors, and repetition, both Robinson and Piercy effectively convey the complexities of societal perceptions and personal identity.

The Power of Image in "Richard Cory"

"Richard Cory" is a narrative poem depicting the life of a seemingly perfect individual—a wealthy man admired by townspeople. This admiration, however, is based on a superficial understanding of his existence, highlighting the societal tendency to equate wealth with happiness. The townspeople, belonging to a lower socioeconomic class, idolize Richard Cory, wishing to emulate his lifestyle. Yet, the poem culminates in a tragic twist when Richard Cory ends his life, challenging the illusion that wealth equates to fulfillment. This narrative underscores the deceptive nature of appearances.

Robinson's use of metaphors vividly constructs an image of Richard Cory as both noble and superficially perfect. Phrases like “richer than a king” and “he glittered when he walked” are not intended to be taken literally. Rather, they emphasize the societal pedestal on which Cory is placed. These metaphors convey his perceived nobility and privilege, masking the internal struggles he faces, which remain hidden from the townspeople.

Irony and Repetition in "Richard Cory"

The poem's situational irony is a critical element, emerging through tone and theme development. Robinson carefully crafts a narrative where the expected outcome starkly contrasts with reality. The townspeople's admiration for Cory suggests a life of contentment, yet the poem reveals his profound unhappiness, culminating in his suicide. This irony is highlighted by the line, “he still fluttered pulses when he said, Good morning,” illustrating the disconnect between appearance and reality.

Repetition is another device Robinson employs to build tension and create a mental image of Richard Cory’s idealized life. The repeated use of “and” at the beginning of six lines methodically constructs an image of Cory’s lifestyle, heightening the shock of the poem’s conclusion. This pattern emphasizes the townspeople's one-dimensional view of Cory, which ultimately blinds them to his inner turmoil.

Societal Expectations in "Barbie Doll"

In contrast, Marge Piercy's "Barbie Doll" critiques societal perceptions of body image and the impact of these perceptions on individuals, particularly women. The poem, written in free verse, lacks a cohesive rhyme scheme, allowing for a fluid exploration of the subject’s life. From childhood, the girl in the poem is inundated with societal expectations symbolized by dolls, miniature stoves, and lipsticks. These gifts represent an idealized version of femininity ingrained from an early age.

As the girl matures, societal judgment becomes more pronounced, with peers criticizing her physical appearance, notably her “great big nose and fat legs.” This societal pressure leads her to internalize these criticisms, resulting in a tragic outcome. The poem’s irony is stark; despite societal demands for her to conform, it is only in death, through the mortician's cosmetic alterations, that she is deemed “pretty.” This irony underscores the superficiality and destructiveness of societal beauty standards.

Irony and Repetition in "Barbie Doll"

Repetition serves as a poignant tool in "Barbie Doll," especially in emphasizing the negative focus on the subject’s nose and legs. The repeated mention of these features throughout the poem marks society’s relentless fixation on physical appearance. The girl’s drastic actions, cutting off her nose and legs, symbolize the extreme measures individuals might take to meet impossible standards. In the end, the transformation performed by the undertaker, turning her into a "thing of beauty," is a bitter irony that critiques societal values.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both "Richard Cory" and "Barbie Doll" explore the theme of societal perception and its impact on individual identity through various poetic devices. Robinson and Piercy adeptly utilize metaphors, irony, and repetition to convey the dissonance between societal expectations and personal realities. These poems illustrate the profound effects of societal judgments and the dangers of equating external appearances with internal contentment. By analyzing these works, readers gain a deeper understanding of how depression and societal pressures intersect, highlighting the need for a more empathetic and nuanced approach to human experiences.

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