Completely agree, but it's germane to the discussion to point out that there's a difference between guidance and being fed a bunch of "rules". I certainly had a number of mentors when I was getting started, and there's a lot of trial & error until you find a work flow that works for you.

Going back to rayc's initial comment, the problem arises when writers start believing they have to write songs they way they are taught or instructed to, and are convinced that they can't deviate from what they've been taught.

http://www.rogerbrownsongs.com
http://www.nashvillesongwriters.com/roger-brown