One of my favorite poets, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, wrote a book of 44 love sonnets leading up to her marriage—that’s right, 44! I have trouble writing a single blog post! Her deep love is especially apparent in Sonnet 43:
[blockquote author=”Elizabeth Barrett Browning”]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 a 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.[/blockquote]
I remember my grade school teacher handing me a thesaurus when I started repeating words in my writing, but here, the author repeats the phrase, “I love thee” nine times. No, Elizabeth Barrett Browning wasn’t in dire need of a thesaurus, she used this repetition to translate the vastness of her immeasurable love to the reader.
I am so thrilled to share Lauren’s and Micah’s Dallas wedding reception at Three Three Three First Avenue on Valentine’s Day! When I was putting this story board together, I was filled with joy reliving the day. I don’t consider myself a poet, but I found that the images contained a repeating element—Lauren’s big smile! Go ahead, count them and you’ll see there’s at least 20!
I have a strong hunch that love and happiness will continue repeating in this marriage!
Now introducing Mr. & Mrs. Peacock!
