I Love Thee

Elizabeth Barrett Browning's timeless poem ''Sonnet XLIII'' is an excellent example of a classic Petrarchan Sonnet. In this poem, the author uses different sound devices to develop the mood and theme of the sonnet. First, repetition is the most present sound device in this poem. Throughout the sonnet, the words ''I love thee'' are repeated at the beginning of almost every line, helping with the rhythm and flow. Second, a different kind of repetition is also used in the seventh and eighth line with these words: ''I love thee freely, as men strive for Right; I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.'' By using the same structure for the second part, but modifying a few words, Browning captures the attention of the reader and keeps interest for the rest of the poem. Lastly, the author uses euphony, which is an interesting addition to the poem. In the phrase : ''I love thee to the depth and breadth and height'', theses three words start off the poem with rhythm and beauty. Because this is a love poem, making the poem beautiful to hear and read is essential. To conclude, these sound devices completely serve their purpose: they help the poem sound wonderful, feel passionate and still soft.