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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


SONNETS FROM THE PORTUGUESE: 43 by ELIZABETH BARRETT BROWNING

Poem Explanation Poet Analysis

First Line: HOW DO I LOVE THEE? LET ME COUNT THE WAYS
Last Line: I SHALL BUT LOVE THEE BETTER AFTER DEATH.
Subject(s): LOVE - EROTIC; LIFE CHANGE EVENTS; LOVE; LOVE - MARITAL; RELIGION; WEDDED LOVE; MARRIAGE - LOVE; THEOLOGY;

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.




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