Writing a song is different for each person. Some start with lyrics, then add melodies, others do it opposite. What I usually do is start with a basic melody and write the lyrics and the rest of the song as I go along.
Love songs aren't my thing either, but I've found they are the easiest to write- no thinking involved lol
Lost love songs are even easier.
Think about the emotions involved. Even if you've never 'loved' (such as myself), look upon experiences of others, common sense, or heck, even about never having loved. Write a story in your mind about a growing love between two people and write it into poetry. Remember, songs don't have to rhyme, just like poems don't have to.
I've written about 18 or more songs, so... if you need any help and this is of no use, just let me know.
Okay, so Beethoven is right. It's different from poetry, but not SO much, just different. It needs a beat, meaning it can't really be freelance - I mean, it can be without a beat but that's rare to pull off properly. So rhythm is a lot more important. And it needs to be more flowy, also.
Actually, it depends on the genre. If it's a rock ballad, then beat is a good thing. "Girlfriend" by Marie Digby is a great example. If you're thinking about Celtic-infused music, you have more free roam because Celtic music doesn't use a lot of drums. But if you imagine a "My Heart Will Go On", then your lyric lines have to be MEASURED!!!!!!!
