That is so true, alanabit. I recall one song I wrote when I was 14 (?) that is worth anything, IMO. It has a melody I still like today. The words I wrote at the time were pathetic. It was all I kept from over 400 songs I'd written between 1962 and 1965, although I did keep the odd 'line' here and there.

I agree with you that the 'craft' or writing (songs, stories, etc) has to come before, during or after the art, but without a foundation in the craft, the art may happen, but it will be luck and not 'skill'.

I know today by the end of the first few hours whether the thing I'm working on will be good or just another workaday song. I'm sure you are aware of that, too, as are all people who have taken their craft/art seriously.

I think you were right to point out that '"I really like it" is an honest answer, but it falls short of being a well thought out critical response.' and I thank you very much for that remark. It forced me to look at some stuff again, and I hope grow a bit from the considering and the occasional exposition thereafter. You are a good man, Charley Brown.

BM