How do I love thee? Let me count
the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth
and height
My soul can reach, when feeling
out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal
Grace.
I love thee to the level of everyday's
Most quiet need, by sun and candlelight.
I love thee freely, as men strive
for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn
from Praise.
I love thee with the passion put
to use
In my old griefs, and with my
childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed
to lose
With my lost saints,--I love thee
with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life!--and,
if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after
death.