Before...

Well, it's almost tomorrow. That memory I can’t let go of. McGreevey’s resignation yesterday proved something I’ve always known: you can’t hide what you are, but you also can’t hide who you love.



It’s another anniversary for me, the only one that counts, really. 17 long years gone by. There was only one person in my life that mattered, and I turned away. Big mistake. But this is how I feel. I used to think this song was for my Casanova, but really, it was for my football player. He lives in Florida, married to a clone of me.



Joni sings it right…



Just before our love got lost you said,

“I am 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 are in my blood like holy wine

You taste so bitter and so sweet

Oh I could drink a case of you, darling

And I would still be on my feet

Oh I would still be on my feet



Oh 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 afraid

I 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 sweet

Oh I could drink a case of you, darling

Still, I’d be on my feet

I would still be on my feet



I 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 sweet

Oh I could drink a case of you, darling

Still, I’d be on my feet

I would still be on my feet



© 1971 Joni Mitchell Publishing Corp (BMI)

Warner Bros. Records Inc.