Which poet is known for the work "Spoon River Anthology" that focuses on the dead residents of an Illinois town?

The work "Spoon River Anthology" is attributed to Edgar Lee Masters, making him the correct choice. This collection of free verse epitaphs features the voices of deceased residents from the fictional town of Spoon River, Illinois. Through the use of these character sketches, Masters explores themes of life, death, and the complexities of human experiences, social issues, and the intertwining of personal histories within a community.

Gwendolyn Brooks, while a significant American poet known for her contributions to literature and themes of race and social justice, is not associated with "Spoon River Anthology." Edwin Arlington Robinson is recognized for his own notable works, such as "Richard Cory," but he did not write this anthology. Joyce Kilmer is famous for his poem "Trees" and his war poetry, but he also did not have a role in the creation of "Spoon River Anthology." Hence, the distinctive and impactful narrative voice found in Masters' poem justifiably earmarks him as the poet behind this acclaimed work.