Well, it can be easy... and it can be impossible. Ever have one of those times when you can't find any ideas you like, and the rhymes won't come, and the guitar just makes a dolesome raquet? Sure, the little critic a writer's head can become a fearsome tyrant... rejecting every melodic meter... These times can be a trial for anyone. And we all have them, I'm told...

I agree with a lot of LtS's desires... The songwriting 'teacher' must be encouraging, and at all times. There are too many different types of songs to prevent the 'urge' to be judgemental... noone is great at all of 'em... But my feeling about this matter goes even further into the psyche of creative beginnings... It's like many people are turned away at the door, because the doorman is a rude inspector instead of inviting. Personal empowerment is a feeling that has got to be present in any creative outlet, and songwriting is no exception ... In fact, I would venture to assert that instilling confidence could be the finest gift a teacher can give...

...and there are so many ways the ego-centric can spoil a fine creative flow... and tie us up, hopeless and shivering in the shadows of the complexities of freedom...

Here's to the greatness in all of us! ttr