"Dover Beach" is a poem by which English writer?

"Dover Beach" is a significant poem written by Matthew Arnold, an English poet known for his reflective and often melancholic verse. The poem explores themes of love, faith, and the changing nature of the world, set against the backdrop of a tranquil scene at Dover Beach. It contrasts the beauty of the natural world with the sense of existential doubt and uncertainty present in modern life.

Matthew Arnold's style often incorporates a sense of nostalgia and a quest for meaning, and "Dover Beach" epitomizes these characteristics through its vivid imagery and emotional depth. The poem begins with an idyllic description of the sea and the shore, but as it unfolds, it reveals a more somber reality, symbolizing the loss of faith and the challenges of navigating life’s complexities.

This context surrounding Arnold’s work and themes helps clarify his unique place in the canon of English poetry, distinct from the styles and themes of other poets in the options provided.