American Songwriter highlights Taylor Swift, John Prine and Joni Mitchell as songwriters whose lyrics use narrative detail, character and imagery in ways the article compares to novels.

– Taylor Swift is praised for diaristic, emotionally detailed songs, with her country roots and storytelling seen as influential on modern pop.
– John Prine is described as an Americana poet whose vivid characters and settings turn songs such as “Angel From Montgomery” and “Donald & Lydia” into folk parables.
– Joni Mitchell is credited with expansive folk narratives in works including “The Last Time I Saw Richard” and “Hejira”, and with influencing later narrative-focused artists.