Not that I'd count as much of a songwriter, but I'd vote Steve Knightley. Galway Farmer, Tall Ships, Sit You Down and Widecombe Fair are all great, but I'd probably opt for Track Of Words as a truly amazing bit of writing.

I'll lay a track of words before you
You can walk them for a while
They might be some comfort to you
When you face the weary mile
Maybe you'll smile

You can choose a word like 'shelter'
Here's another word like 'rest'
I'll place words like 'safe haven'
On the paths you know the best
These words will caress

I'll lay a track of words before you
So let them be your guide
To lead to the right turnings
When you've lost the way inside
I know how you tried

I'll lay a track of words before you
Then every voice you've ever heard
In your heart on quiet hillsides
And every gentle breeze will stir
This silent track of words

Justification? Well, you notice that it's expressive without ever nailing down who's expressing it, or about whom. It works equally well as a letter to an existing lover, or to a lover leaving, or as a parent for their child, or even about a song cheering you up in the hard times, or any number of other interpretations. It's a song with *depth*.

Graham.