An introduction to Joni Mitchell’s music cannot be done with a single song. Two songs are not sufficient for a proper introduction, but two are better than one. Our hope is only to inspire further investigation (listening) independently.
Joni’s insight into relationships is marvelous – capturing what is complex and chaotic into beautiful verse. This song defines love in a single line of four words:
“Love is touching souls”
As usual, Joni reduces things to beautiful simplicity.
A Case of You
Just before our love got lost you said
“I am as constant as a northern star”
And I said “Constantly in the darkness
Where’s that at?
If you want me I’ll be in the bar”On the back of a cartoon coaster
In the blue TV screen light
I drew a map of Canada
Oh Canada
With your face sketched on it twice
Oh you’re in my blood like holy wine
You taste so bitter and so sweetOh I could drink a case of you darling
Still I’d be on my feet
oh I would still be on my feetOh I am a lonely painter
I live in a box of paints
I’m frightened by the devil
And I’m drawn to those ones that ain’t afraidI remember that time you told me you said
“Love is touching souls”
Surely you touched mine
‘Cause part of you pours out of me
In these lines from time to time
Oh, you’re in my blood like holy wine
You taste so bitter and so sweetOh I could drink a case of you darling
And I would still be on my feet
I would still be on my feetI met a woman
She had a mouth like yours
She knew your life
She knew your devils and your deeds
And she said
“Go to him, stay with him if you can
But be prepared to bleed”Oh but you are in my blood
You’re my holy wine
You’re so bitter, bitter and so sweetOh, I could drink a case of you darling
Still I’d be on my feet
I would still be on my feetThe Lyrics are Copied from JoniMitchell.com
© 1970; Joni Mitchell
Originally released on the album: Blue (1971).
The recording below is from the album: Both Sides Now (2000).
Wayne Shorter Saxophone.
Chuck Berghofer Bass.
Peter Erskine Drums.
Mark Isham Trumpet.
Herbie Hancock Piano.
Arranged for Orchestra and Conducted by Vince Mendoza
