Literary Frequency Tuning: A Theory of Proportional Lexical Harmonization and Analysis in Written Texts

Abstract This paper proposes a theoretical framework for Literary Frequency Tuning (LFT), defined as the intentional arrangement of lexical occurrence frequencies according to predetermined proportional relationships designed to produce structured semantic, rhetorical, mnemonic, or aesthetic effects within a text. Drawing inspiration from Pythagorean notions of numerical harmony, the paper explores the possibility that lexical frequencies may be deliberately organized according to mathematical ratios analogous to musical intervals. A formal vocabulary is introduced for describing frequency architecture, harmonic lexical ratios, lexical tuning, and lexical dissonance. The resulting framework provides a foundation for future computational and literary investigations into frequency-based textual design.