Meaning: Harlan Howard, a prominent country music songwriter, made this insightful statement about the process of creating music. The quote "A lot of songs you write are just for exercise - just pencil sharpeners" suggests that not every song a musician writes will become a hit or a timeless classic. Instead, some songs serve as exercises to hone their craft, much like using a pencil sharpener to maintain the sharpness of a pencil. In other words, songwriting is not just about producing chart-topping hits; it is also about the continuous practice and refinement of one's skills.

Harlan Howard's career in the music industry spanned several decades, during which he became known for his exceptional songwriting abilities. He penned many hit songs, including "I Fall to Pieces" and "Heartaches by the Number," which have become enduring classics in the country music genre. With his wealth of experience, Howard's perspective on the nature of songwriting carries significant weight and insight.

The analogy of a pencil sharpener is a powerful and relatable way to illustrate the process of creating music. Just as a pencil needs to be sharpened regularly to maintain its effectiveness, a songwriter needs to continually exercise their creativity to stay sharp. Not every song will be a masterpiece, but each one serves a purpose in keeping the songwriter's skills finely tuned. This perspective is valuable for aspiring musicians and seasoned professionals alike, as it encourages them to embrace the process of songwriting as a journey of growth and development.

In the context of the quote, "exercise" refers to the act of writing songs for the purpose of practice and improvement. Much like how athletes train to enhance their skills, songwriters engage in the act of songwriting as a form of exercise to refine their abilities. This constant practice allows them to experiment with different styles, themes, and musical techniques, ultimately contributing to their growth as artists.

Furthermore, the quote emphasizes the importance of not being discouraged by the outcome of every song. Not every song will be a chart-topping hit, and that is perfectly normal. Instead, each song serves as a stepping stone in the songwriter's creative journey, contributing to their development and evolution as an artist. By embracing the process of writing "exercise" songs, musicians can cultivate a mindset of continuous learning and improvement, ultimately enhancing their craft.

In conclusion, Harlan Howard's quote encapsulates the essence of songwriting as a continuous exercise in creativity and skill development. It encourages musicians to view every song they write, regardless of its commercial success, as a valuable opportunity for growth and refinement. By embracing this perspective, songwriters can approach their craft with a sense of purpose and resilience, knowing that each song serves as a pencil sharpener, honing their abilities and contributing to their artistic journey.