WYS if you're thinking about writing I'd forget about "the hook" and just write the blamed thing. Honest, in all of the books that I have ever read about the craft of lyric writing, I have never, ever seen even ONE reference to something called a hook. The best songs, traditional or by known composers are able to stand alone on their musical and lyrical strengths. Some examples I am thinking of are:

• Barbara Allen
• My Grandfather's Clock
• The Yellow Rose of Texas
• Somewhere Over the Rainbow
• Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?
• If I Had a Hammer
• Keep On the Sunny Side
• Will the Circle Be Unbroken
• This Land Is Your Land

I could go on.