How do I love thee?
Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and
My soul can reach, when feeling out of
For the ends of being and ideal grace.
I love thee to the level of every
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
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
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to
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.
