In "Songbook," Nick Hornby emphasizes that songwriting should be viewed as a unique form of artistic expression, separate from poetry. While both involve crafting words and emotions, songwriting has its own set of rules and conventions that distinguish it from traditional poetry. This differentiation highlights the specific challenges and creative processes involved in writing lyrics that are meant to be set to music.

Hornby’s perspective invites readers to appreciate the complexity of song lyrics, which often require a blend of brevity and emotional resonance, tailored to musicality. He encourages a deeper understanding of how songs, although similar to poetry in some respects, operate within the constraints of melody and rhythm, making the art of songwriting a distinct and valuable craft in its own right.