The act of creation often intertwines with the deep-seated emotions we carry, including fear. In Building Dover Pier, the anxieties of progress juxtapose the steadfastness of the human spirit. Look to the foreground, where workers maneuver amidst the chaos of construction. The dark, swirling clouds loom overhead, suggesting impending storms, both literal and metaphorical.

Notice how the sharp lines of the pier stretch resolutely into the murky waters, an unwavering symbol of ambition against nature's raw power. The palette is muted, dominated by greys and deep blues, creating an atmosphere heavy with uncertainty while also highlighting the vibrancy of human endeavor. The contrasts within the piece reveal the tension between humanity and nature. Workers, small and indistinct against the grand backdrop of the tumultuous sky, embody the fear of their fragile existence amid such overwhelming forces.

The juxtaposition of strength and vulnerability is palpable, as each figure appears both determined and daunted, portraying the duality of hope and trepidation in the face of progress. This dynamic invites the viewer to reflect on their personal anxieties in the pursuit of their dreams. Pennell created this work in 1910, during a time when industrialization was dramatically reshaping landscapes and lives. His observations of the evolving nature of society were pivotal; he sought to capture the essence of a changing world while grappling with the fears that accompanied such transformation.

As the construction of the pier became a symbol of modernity, it also reflected the artist's own ambivalence about progress and its consequences.