Vocabulary

Lyric draws heavily on colloquial English, slang, or conversational fillers.

Lyrics are uplifting, joyful, or hopeful in overall tone. Even when describing struggle, the resolution is affirming (e.g. Hey Jude moves from sadness toward reassurance – net positive).

Lyrics are sad, angry, bitter, fearful, or otherwise dark in overall tone. Cynicism or resignation counts (e.g. Eleanor Rigby, Don't Bother Me, Sexy Sadie).

Lyric uses few distinct words relative to total length – heavy repetition.

Invented syllables or meaningless words used for rhythm or texture – ob-la-di, na-na-na, goo goo g'joob

Lyrics are descriptive or observational without strong emotional valence. Storytelling without taking sides (e.g. Penny Lane, Yellow Submarine).

Strong literary craftsmanship – precise imagery, extended metaphor, and careful word choice

Lyrical content dealing with violence, despair, alienation, or mortality

Very few unique words – the song relies on repetition, melody, and vocal texture over lyrical content

The song includes lyrics or phrases in a language other than English

High word count with packed imagery – every line carries meaning

Lyric uses a wide range of distinct words relative to total length.

Genuinely ambivalent – both positive and negative poles in the same lyric, with neither dominant. Rare; reserve for songs that swing distinctly between joy and dread (e.g. A Day in the Life's news-reading verses vs. dreamy middle).