Ernest Dowson was an English poet and novelist born on August 2, 1867, in London. He is best known for his association with the Decadent movement, which emphasized aestheticism and a sense of disillusionment. Dowson's poetry often explores themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, characterized by its musicality and emotional depth. His most famous work, "Non Sum Qualis Eram," reflects his melancholic outlook and mastery of lyrical expression. Dowson's influence extended to later writers, including T.S. Eliot and W.H. Auden, and he remains a significant figure in late 19th-century literature. He passed away on February 23, 1900.