Polyphonic refers to a musical texture that involves multiple independent melodies being played or sung simultaneously. This contrasts with monophonic music, which features a single melody without any harmonic support. Polyphony is commonly found in various musical styles, including classical music, jazz, and folk traditions, allowing for rich and complex soundscapes. In addition to music, the term polyphonic can also apply to literature and other art forms, where multiple voices or perspectives coexist within a single work. This technique can create depth and enhance the narrative, as seen in the works of authors like Fyodor Dostoevsky and Mikhail Bakhtin, who explore diverse viewpoints and themes.