Ode to Joni Mitchell

Joni, playing the jazz trumpet with your voice 
Joni, who hated the music business 
Joni, who was attracted to artists of all kinds 
     Like a moth to a roaring fire 
        Who in turn attracted and influenced like-minded minds 
           Around your flaming heart 
             Inviting others in, hesitantly, less it hurts too much. 

Joni, you grew older than your age 
Joni, eternally young, for you have the voice of sincerity 
And naked truth on your side. 
The artist supreme.  
You lasted longer on this green earth than your companion Vincent, 
Your mentor Miles and the locksmith Signore Picasso, who unlocked many doors for you. 

Joni, forever young 
Forever in hearts who yearn to accomplish what you accomplished. 
Not fame and recognition, but entering the holy of holies, 
Into your inner core, where you made love to yourself. 


Home is where the heart is, they say 
Joni, you showed some of us the way home, and we are eternally grateful.  

Joni, you laboured to express, rather than impress, 
With your smattering of artistic bursts 
Like a bright sun behind a cloud, unable to contain its light.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2026

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