In "Songbook," Nick Hornby reflects on the nature of music, comparing it to color or clouds, emphasizing that it exists autonomously, without inherent intelligence. He appreciates the beauty and mystery of a simple chord, which is fundamental to any piece of music, regardless of its complexity or sophistication. Hornby suggests that anyone, regardless of their background or education, can produce something meaningful and impactful from these basic elements of music.

The essential plea Hornby makes is for music to resonate well with the listener. He believes that what truly matters is the enjoyment and aesthetic appeal of music, rather than the credentials of its creator. This perspective celebrates the universal accessibility of music, where even those who may lack formal understanding can achieve artistic greatness simply by taking the chance to create something that sounds pleasing.