How we cite our quotes: (Line)
Quote #1
He was a gentleman from sole to crown,
Clean favored, and imperially slim. (3-4)
Richard Cory was a gentleman from head to toe, the speaker tells us. And check out his diction. He uses kingly words such as "crown" and "imperially." R.C.'s appearance is practically kingly.
Quote #2
And he was always quietly arrayed,
And he was always human when he talked;
But still he fluttered pulses when he said,
"Good-morning," and he glittered when he walked. (5- 8)
R.C. may be kingly, but he's also chill about it. He's not flaunting. He's human to the people around him, and he's not dressed flamboyantly. Still, the guy has a bit of swagger. His good looks and dress send hearts racing.
Quote #3
And he was rich—yes, richer than a king—
And admirably schooled in every grace:
In fine, we thought that he was everything
To make us wish that we were in his place. (9-12)
Oh, and here's another reference to kings. The townsfolk think that Mr. Cory has everything a guy could dream of.
Quote #4
And Richard Cory, one calm summer night,
Went home and put a bullet through his head. (15-16)
But not even wealth, good looks, or nice clothes can make a guy content. Despite all of his riches and good looks, R.C. kills himself. Not even fancy duds, a sweet face, or an "imperial" body can guarantee happiness in life.