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 every day'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 with the
breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life; and, if
God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.
< British and American Poets
of the 19th Century >