Among other things, I’m a choral singer. In musical terms, “polyphonic” is music with multiple independent melodies occurring at the same time, resulting in rich, complex harmonies. Kind of like life, I think. And this blog, I hope.

A Polyphonic Life is my blog, which I also publish on Substack. I’ve returned to blogging after a hiatus because writing brings my great joy. This blog explores history, politics, writing, music, nature, faith, food, technology, culture, and other things that interest me. I try to be optimistic and reflective in my writing, to hold up the good work of others, and share resources that I hope add value to my readers.

Rose Hayden Smith Rose Hayden Smith

Bye, September Days

Bye, September days. “…summer’s best of weather and autumn’s best of cheer.” - Helen Hunt Jackson

The mighty Columbia. Sea lions. Lighthouses. The Pacific Ocean. Ships. Good food. Long walks. Portland. The migration of birds. Days to remember.

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Rose Hayden Smith Rose Hayden Smith

You’ve got mail

54 years ago 8-year old me wrote a birthday note to my dad. It found him. He saved it, and it has found me again.

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