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 out 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.
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