Aristotle, Rhetoric, book 3, chapter 8, section 2

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[2] If it is without rhythm, it is unlimited, whereas it ought to be limited （but not by meter）; for that which is unlimited is unpleasant and unknowable. Now all things are limited by number, and the number belonging to the form of diction is rhythm, of which the meters are divisions.¹

1 Bywater's emendation for τμητά of the Mss. Aristotle seems to be referring to the Pythagorean theory that “number” is the regulating force in all things, and in giving shape to language “number” is rhythm, which reduces a formless mass of words to order.

Aristotle in 23 Volumes, Vol. 22, translated by J. H. Freese. Aristotle. Cambridge and London. Harvard University Press; William Heinemann Ltd. 1926.

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