I almost said Bill Staines, but that's too obvious. I could have said Phil Ochs, but that might be expected too. I like a songwriter who can handle the English language with aplomb, wit, and charm. I also like a songwriter who is a good composer as well, who has a well demonstrated ability to craft a strong melody. In my estimation, there is a 19th century songwriter who wasn't a professional musician, but worked in the printing trade, I believe. He is most remembered for his 1876 hit "My Grandfather's Clock." Of course I'm talking about Henry C. Work I don't think this guy ever wrote a weak melody. And the puns in some of his songs are more than just clever. When it comes to satire, oh! can he be biting at times, but you have to laugh at the absurdity, too.
Jim