I have written "on demand" and for my own enjoyment for over 50 years. Most of what I write is for a limited audience - myself (and, possibly, a few intimate friends). I hear melodies in my head and can usually craft something to go with them in fairly short order. Yet, I don't consider myself a songwriter, simply because I never pursued it professionally or had any songs recorded (so far as I know).

Much of what I have written has been relatively topical and, therefore, has had a certain "shelf life." On the other hand, the songs I most admire are, more or less, timeless. I have enjoyed topical songs, but they are usually stale within a few years, if not sooner. For me, a song that resonates through generations is a thing of beauty and a joy forever. People who can accomplish that are my songwriting heroes.