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
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 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.