The rhythms of rhythm

The low frequency (LF) spectral analysis or ‘rhythm spectrum’ approach to the quantitative and comparison of speech rhythms is extended beyond syllable word ‘rhetorical rhythms’ in read-aloud narratives, a selection exploratory scenarios, with aim developing unified theory rhythms. Current methodologies field are first discussed, then choice data motivated modulation-theoretic rhythm spectrum spectrogram applied amplitude modulation (AM) (FM) speech. New concepts formant , trajectory introduced Rhythm Formant Theory (RFT) framework its associated methodology Analysis (RFA) order capture second regularities temporal variation interaction AM FM factors explored, contrasting English Mandarin Chinese. LF recover information about long-term rhythms, investigate configurative function rhythm. highest magnitude frequencies through component spectra extracted classifying readings different languages individual speaking styles using distance-based hierarchical clustering, existence ‘rhythms rhythm’ long narratives shown. In conclusion, pointers given extension this RFT for future confirmatory investigations.