Elizabeth Barrett Browning wrote the short yet impactful poem ‘How Do I Love Thee?’ in 1845. The poem, part of the Sonnets from the Portuguese series, has been interpreted in various ways, with many supporters recognizing it as a poem of love and devotion to the poet’s beloved husband and husband’s love language. It has certainly become a much-quoted popular poem by many over the years, but why is this poem so special?
The poem is essentially a list of ways in which the speaker loves their beloved. It has fourteen lines and a distinctive ABABCDCDEFEFGHGH rhyme scheme, featuring a volta or shift in the last two lines. The poem is about a deep, unconditional love, and the speaker expresses their love for the beloved despite the passage of time, death and any kind of spiritual distance. This is a profound expression of the beloved being a part of the speaker’s life, just as much as the speaker is a part of their beloved.
The poem is written in the style of an Italian sonnet, which traditionally follows the Petrarchan sonnet form. The poem has a memorable rhythm, with the three stanzas having a regular stress pattern. There is also strong use of alliteration, as evidenced in the opening lines “How do I love thee? Let me count the ways”. This creates a tone of intense emotion, which works well with the themes of love and dedication.
The poem is full of complex metaphors, such as the speaker’s love being like “ancestral night streams”, and the phrase “the level deposition of a word” being a metaphor for making a solemn vow. This lends an air of mystery to the poem, and serves to make the poem unforgettable.
What is most striking about ‘How Do I Love Thee?’ is the expressions of love the speaker makes. They speak of their love as something which is infinite and timeless, “As the days of the stars that never grow old”, and their love standing in the face of eternity, “I shall but love thee better after death”. These passionate declarations show the speaker’s dedication to the beloved, and emphasize the idea that love is truly strong enough to endure all things.
Religion
One possible religious interpretation of ‘How Do I Love Thee?’ is that it is a reflection of the unconditional love that God has for His people. This interpretation gives the poem added spiritual significance and makes it resonate more deeply with people of faith. It is not difficult to see the similarities between the devotion of the speaker’s love for their beloved and the Biblical call for us to love God with all of our heart and soul.
But even if one does not subscribe to the religious interpretation of the poem, it is still beautiful and meaningful. The speaker’s profound expressions of love and devotion make it clear that they would do anything for their beloved, expressing that love has no boundaries and can overcome any situation. This is a powerful message, and it is no wonder that the poem has been so popular over the years.
Influence
When Elizabeth Barrett Browning wrote her poem in 1845, it was quickly recognized as a brilliant piece of poetry. It has since been used in numerous works of art, including plays, television shows, movies, and musicals. The poem even inspired the title of the 1950 musical Kiss Me Kate, based on Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew.
‘How Do I Love Thee?’ is a beautiful and powerful expression of love, and its influence is still felt to this day. It has become one of the most beloved and influential poems of all time, and its message of love and devotion has resonated with people from all walks of life.
Legacy
It is clear that Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s poem ‘How Do I Love Thee?’ has left an indelible mark on popular culture, and it is sure to remain one of the most beloved, quoted and influential poems of all time. Its profound expression of unconditional and timeless love speaks to people on an emotional level, and its timelessness and power continues to inspire and confuse in equal measure.
The poem’s legacy is also one of an expansive interpretation and reinterpretation. While every reader may have their own unique interpretation of the poem, it is clear that there is no one correct interpretation or understanding. The poem has become a timeless classic and it is surely only a matter of time before another generation discovers and celebrates it.
Impact
The popular poem ‘How Do I Love Thee?’ has had a lasting effect on many readers over the years. Despite its brevity, it conveys a powerful message of love and devotion, and it is a reminder to us all of the great power of love and how it can overcome any obstacle. This poem is a timeless reminder of the universality of love, and of the beauty that can be found in its expression.
Because the poem is so short and yet so impactful, it has become a popular choice for romantic occasions, such as weddings, anniversaries and other special occasions. Its multifaceted interpretation allows it to remain relevant and meaningful to people of different backgrounds and beliefs, thus making it truly universal.
Interpretation
The interpretation of Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s ‘How Do I Love Thee?’ is rarely uniformed. It can be understood as a passionate declaration of unconditional love, an exploration of the richness of emotion and devotion, or even as a spiritual expression of the love of God for His people.
No matter how the poem is interpreted, its power is undeniable. It is a reminder that love can be strong and enduring, and that true love will always find a way, no matter the circumstances. It is a reminder that no matter how life may change, love can still remain and in many instances, even become stronger.
Connection
Ultimately, ‘How Do I Love Thee?’ is a poem that speaks to our shared humanity and reminds us of our capacity to connect deeply and profoundly with one another. The poem speaks to our desire for love, and it shows us that love is a powerful and transformative force, capable of bridging all divides.
It is a reminder that love is an essential part of our lives, and that it is something that should not be taken lightly. This poem is a beautiful tribute to the power and strength of love, and its relevance to our lives is timeless.
