Marcus Mumford — English Musician born on January 31, 1987,

Marcus Oliver Johnstone Mumford is an English-American singer, songwriter, musician and producer best known as the lead singer of the band Mumford & Sons. He also plays a number of instruments with the group, including guitar, drums and mandolin... (wikipedia)

A lot of the time writers are just sponges... for what's around them, and so books are helpful for focusing your mind and literally putting it into words.
It's a unique thing to stand in front of a crowd and sing your songs.
I think it was T.S. Eliot who talked about good poetry being felt before it's understood. I believe that. There are some bands where I love their lyrics but I don't have a clue what they're on about.
The authenticity thing has never been an issue for me.
I don't even call myself a Christian.