That Song About The Midway

Joni Mitchell's 'That Song About The Midway' is a poignant exploration of love, disillusionment, and the passage of time. The song begins with a vivid memory of meeting a captivating figure at a fair, described as standing out 'like a ruby in a black man's ear.' This striking imagery sets the tone for the intense attraction and admiration the narrator feels. The person is depicted as a charismatic and almost otherworldly presence, 'playing like a devil wearing wings,' suggesting a sense of allure and danger.

As the song progresses, the narrative shifts to a more somber tone. The narrator follows this enigmatic figure to different places, witnessing their gambling and deceit. The repeated questioning of whether the gamble was worth the price reflects the narrator's growing doubts and the realization that the relationship may have been built on illusions. The metaphor of 'folding a hand you knew could win' poignantly captures the sense of lost potential and the difficult decisions that come with recognizing the end of a relationship.

In the final verse, the narrator reflects on their own state of being, feeling worn out and disillusioned. The imagery of 'ticket stubs and blues' and 'working overtime' conveys a sense of exhaustion and the repetitive nature of their current life. The envy expressed towards the person who has seemingly found peace in 'the valley' contrasts sharply with the narrator's own feeling of being 'midway down the midway,' symbolizing a life stuck in transition and uncertainty. Mitchell's lyrical mastery and emotive storytelling make this song a timeless reflection on the complexities of love and the inevitable changes that come with time.