This started as a single “poem” entitled ” Two Photos of Juliet”, which was written for a contest. It actually consisted of 2 linked sonnets and scored third in the contest. But having written more, I split the original into Numbers 1 and two. You’ll find more information about this in the notes on the individual poems.
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 thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life; and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.
Sonnet 43
Elizabeth Barrett Browning
Empty Chairs 