Poetry Blog: Breathing Love in Poems

The Power of Love in Poetic Words

Love is a universal language that has inspired countless poets throughout history. It is an emotion that can uplift, comfort, and heal. When love is captured in words, it takes on a life of its own, touching the hearts and souls of both the poet and the reader. In this article, we will explore some beautiful poems that breathe love, showcasing the power and depth of this incredible feeling.

1. "Love after Love" by Derek Walcott

"The time will come
when, with elation,
you will greet yourself arriving
at your own door, in your own mirror,
and each will smile at the other's welcome,
and say, sit here. Eat.
You will love again the stranger who was yourself."

Derek Walcott's "Love after Love" is a remarkable poem that celebrates self-love and acceptance. It reminds us that before loving someone else, we must first learn to love ourselves. The poem encourages us to embrace our own reflection, to sit with ourselves and share the love we so readily offer others. Through its simple yet profound words, it reminds us that love starts within.

2. "How Do I Love Thee?" by 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."

Elizabeth Barrett Browning's iconic sonnet, "How Do I Love Thee?" is a testament to the boundless nature of love. In her poetic exploration, Browning contemplates the various dimensions of love and expresses her devotion in an almost mathematical fashion. Through her words, she reveals that love is not limited by time or space, but rather extends to the very essence of our being. This poem intricately weaves together the complexities and simplicity of love, leaving the reader breathless.

3. "i carry your heart with me" by E.E. Cummings

"i carry your heart with me(i carry it in
my heart)i am never without it(anywhere
i go you go,my dear;and whatever is done
by only me is your doing,my darling)
i fear
no fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)i want
no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it's you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you"

E.E. Cummings' "i carry your heart with me" is a passionate and deeply romantic poem that speaks of an inseparable love. The poem beautifully expresses the idea that love transcends physical boundaries and unifies souls. Cummings' unique style of lowercase letters and lack of punctuation adds an intimate touch to the poem, emphasizing the personal connection between the speaker and their beloved. This poem reminds us that love has the power to breathe life into every aspect of our existence.

Love is an eternal muse for poets, inspiring them to put pen to paper and craft verses that capture its essence. The poems highlighted in this article are just a glimpse of the vast collection of love-centered poetry. Each one beautifully portrays love with its own unique perspective, breathing life into the words and touching the hearts of those who read them. So, let these poems remind you to breathe love into your own life and cherish the power it holds.