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.