Mitchell once remarked, “I think men write about breakups very dishonestly.” “I wanted to be able to take ownership of my mistakes. I wanted to be able to see my involvement in any conflict I might have with another person so I could determine what could and could not be altered. That is a necessary component of chasing happiness. When the weeds in your soul are young and just beginning to bud, you must pull them before they choke you.

Discover the significance of this open song below.

Behind the Meaning of Joni Mitchell’s “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”

Many fans attribute this song as being about Mitchell’s relationship with Graham Nash–or more aptly, their breakup. ‘Cause part of you pours out of me / In these lines from time to time, she sings in the fourth verse. That line is really the crux of this song. It’s an in-depth portrait of a now-ended relationship that had a deep impact on her.

Oh, you are in my blood like holy wine
You taste so bitter and so sweet
Oh, I could drink a case of you, darling
Still I’d be on my feet
I would still be on my feet

In the chorus, she likens her love interest to the buzz of wine. Despite any downfalls their relationship might have faced, it’s impossible for her to let go of that feeling. I could drink a case of you, darling / Still I’d be on my feet, she sings.