Singing the Gamut

From poignant to playful, this collection of poetry and verse sings through a solar year of thoughtfulness, whimsy, nostalgia, fun, and devotion. Nature is never far away on these pages, which begin and end with the joy and gloom of the winter solstice. Like life, this collection is unpredictable: sometimes waggish, sometimes tearful, sometimes metered and rhymed, sometimes in free form--but always with music in the words. The poems follow the author's memories and thoughts in moonlight, in sunlight, and in awe for the Maker of both. Singing the Gamut offers a medley of delightful poetry, ranging from the cleverly humorous to the deeply emotional. Ray Haan reveals himself to be an extraordinarily skilled wordsmith. Sit back and savor the poems. You will relish them time after time. Each reading provides both profound insight and light-hearted quirkiness.--John Van Dyk, Professor of Philosophy Emeritus, State University of New YorkThis is an anthology of life itself, including moments of profound praise, dry humor, and quiet surprise. A few pieces speak concretely and movingly of Haan's own history, but most of them offer satire, reflection, and common prayers for souls of all ages. Some of these poems march solemnly; others dance; still others grin and nudge you in the ribs. But Haan has an excellent ear for the English language, and every poem sings.--Chad Engbers, Professor of English, Calvin CollegeRaymond H. Haan attended Calvin College and the University of Michigan. He scrambled through thirty-nine years of teaching English, simultaneously pursuing his passion for church music by serving as organist and director of music and by publishing much choral, organ, and instrumental music for worship. Since retiring from active music-making, he has written a light-hearted book of serious grammar instruction, and he has also produced miscellaneous prose and a good helping of poetry. He and his wife, Claretta, live in Cutlerville, Michigan, within a few miles of their four children and a goodly quiverful of grandchildren.