Not true, plenty of lyrics don't fit that well with songs or in some cases barely fit or are very stretched to fit. Look at quite a few Bob Dylan songs and lyrics aren't different from poetry, seeing as lyrics are poetry set to song. On the other side of things, plenty of lyrics fit well to songs but a complete trash.

That doesn't mean there isn't more to lyrics than poetry, and that certain lyrics don't sound so meaningful or good when taken out of context.

Yeah of course the lyrics sound better when sung in most cases, because thats what they were designed to do. But what i'm saying is, were discussing favorite lyricists not favorite songwriters. In songwriting theres more to it then words such as how its delivered, in lyrics its just the lyrics, the words.

There you have it. The point of lyrics is to sound the best when sung, mixed with how good the poetry is.

Dude what the hell? I just said that it seems like you're arguing for the sake of winning and just trying to get the last word. What i'm trying to say is, were discussing favorite LYRICISTS, therefore you would only look at the LYRICS, not the singing. When you discuss best guitarists do you take the bass, vocals, lyrics and the drums into your decision? No, because that has nothing to do with the guitarist.

Ok, ok, back on topic. Who doesn't enjoy arguing? :)

2pac & Kurt Cobain, hands down

I'm suprised noone said Tom Waits.

^I only have Rain Dogs, and it wasn't too spectacular lyrically.

lol what? Tom Waits is an amazing songwriter.

To send me blue valentines
Like half forgotten dreams
Like a pebble in my shoe
As I walk these streets
And the ghost of your memory
Is the thistle in the kiss
And the burglar that can break a roses neck
It's the tattooed broken promise
That I hide beneath my sleeve
And I see you every time I turn my back