Writers! What is your opinion on the following...?

Question:

Writers! What is your opinion on the following...?

Again, my old college lecturer:

'A great writer need not have a good idea, nor a good setting, or even strong characters for his work to become a great success. What he requires, singularly and above all else, is an inherent mastery of the English language and the written word. A great writer could have an idea pitched to him about three motes of dust caught in a cardboard box, and write about the scene as if it was the most wonderful thing ever put on a page; the reader would become enraptured by the tale of this dust, just as if he were reading about a historical battle, the lives of the saints or some fantastical wonderland,'

How far would you agree? And yes, my lecturer was a dramatic old Nazi from the age of the dinosaurs, in case you were wondering. Do you agree that to be a good writer talent is all that is needed, rather than passion or even a good idea?

Thanks!

Additional Details

5 months ago
Take a look at my 360 page to learn a little more about me and to view a tiny piece of my work- I want criticism and direction so please email me or leave a comment, whether to discuss my style or your own- I am keen to meet other writers!

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:

I, William Shakespeare, of Stratford-upon-Avon, in the county of Warrick, gentleman in perfect health & memory. God be praised, do make & ordain this my last will & testament in manner & form following, that is to say, first, I commend my soul into the hands of God, my Creator, hoping & assuredly believing, through the only merits of Jesus Christ, my Saviour, to be made partaker of life everlasting, and my body to the Earth whereof it is made.