Rickenjangle, I agree 100%, but I think for a fledgling songwriter it's a trap that draws them into introspective word-smithing that won't connect with an audience. Nothing wrong with that if it's a catharthis type of writing binge.
Well, here's some "I" in a song I recorded a while back just to show I'll break my own rules. Song was goofy lyrically, but melodically it kicks ass. So I keep it around for a rewrite.
Mrs OA loved it until she figured out it was about the dog.
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LSFAD
I watched you watch me while I watched TV
I’d say your name and you tipped your head
And your eyes smiled at me.
All the years between us, have seen us both grow grey
And I could tell what you were thinking
Though you’d never much to say.
(Chorus)
But then, you had to go away
Away, you had to go away
When I’d get home whenever
You’d always greet me with a smile
My day was never over till I talked to you a while
You always seemed so happy
When we’d ride in my old truck
With you on that seat next to me I was never out of luck
(Bridge)
For fifteen years we were just so happy
Through thick and thin you were by my side
But now you’re gone, this big old house is empty
You cant believe how many nights that I….
Repeat Verse 1
Chorus
coda