Overtone

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David Myer
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Overtone

Postby David Myer » Sun Sep 05, 2021 12:59 am

So what is the difference between an overtone and an undertone?

In music it seems an overtone is a particular thing, a harmonic.

But my red wine has overtones of chocolate on the long palate. It also has undertones of plums. And whilst I am struggling to detect anything of either, it would be nice to know where to look.

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Slava
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Re: Overtone

Postby Slava » Mon Sep 06, 2021 7:16 am

My guess on the difference is the obvious; overtones are strong hints within the main gist, undertones are hinted at hints. Then again, they could also be looked upon as essentially synonyms, both implying a sense of something outside of the main thrust.

As to wine, I've heard some say it's really a smoke-screen. The descriptions are as much to show off how well one can speak of wine as anything else, and may well have no relation to reality.

For an enjoyable wine movie, try Bottle Shock from 2008.
Life is like playing chess with chessmen who each have thoughts and feelings and motives of their own.

David Myer
Grand Panjandrum
Posts: 1140
Joined: Wed Nov 11, 2009 3:21 am
Location: Melbourne

Re: Overtone

Postby David Myer » Wed Sep 08, 2021 3:21 am

Thanks Slava. Just seen this after having posted my similar thoughts on the Discussion page. I like your 'hints' and 'hinted at hints' idea. There may be something in it.


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