I think Can't Deny Me is one of Ed's weaker outings, but that kind of direct lyrics about something he is really passionate about does not really play to his strengths as a writer. And class has never been where he is at his best (honestly Even Flow is probably his best lyric, or Sleight of Hand, but neither is directly about class), or political screeds. His best political songs usually bring in the political messaging from the side.
Having said that, I don't think Eddie has changed all that much in terms of quality throughout his career. He often writes more than he used to (but I think his facility with melody has improved which has helped offset a loss of raw power)
Eddie has written amazing lyrics throughout his career
He has written decent lyrics that are elevated by being part of an incredible song (or incredible delivery)
He has written weaker lyrics that are elevated to okay by the song or performance
He has written strong lyrics that are undercut by weaker surrounding songs
He has written decent and weaker lyrics undercut by their surrounding songs.
Ed writes lyrics, not poetry. They are often poetic lyrics but they are clearly designed to be sung, by him, and with a musical accompaniment. The idea that his writing has dropped off seems wrong to me. I think it's just that many fans are less enamored with some of the more recent songs that have housed them (at whatever point someone starts to consider Pearl Jam 'late period'_
In my opinion
