"Little Green" Song Analysis

Weaving in a subtle lesson on responsibility in “Little Green,” Joni Mitchell employs  natural personification, multi- faceted characterization, and peaceful imagery in order to convey that even though “sometimes there’ll  be sorrow,” life consists of many trials and triumphs.

Mitchell encompasses all she was trying to portray through her use of peaceful imagery.  The “crocuses” that one can “bring to school tomorrow” provide an image of spring which is often associated with a time of peace and tranquility.  The imagery presented does not only produce a symbol of peace, but an aura of peace.  The allusion to a “gypsy dancer” provides an atmosphere of peace because gypsy dancers are normally reared as people who are in tune with themselves and the world.  The symbols of peace and the atmosphere of peace created by Mitchell help also to establish the idea that not every day in life is filled with sorrows.

Joni Mitchell indirectly and directly characterizes the subjects of her song.  Alluding to the presence of a father figure throughout the second stanza, she reveals that “he went to California,” not only to tell the listeners that he left, but to show them his attitude which one can conclude is that of a selfish person.  Confirming those beliefs, the figure is directly characterized when it is made apparent that “he’s a non- conformer,” verifying his disposition.  Mitchell combines this characterization of a father figure with one of a mother figure.  The indirect characterization of the woman is able to portray her conflicted thoughts.  “You’re sorry, but you not ashamed” reveals that the woman has many mixed emotions hinting at her sorrowful but hopeful outlook.  This dual use of characterization is combined with personification in order to aid Mitchell in conveying her idea.

Personification is achieved through attributing human qualities to the seasons.  “The spring is born” allows for the listeners to understand that although spring is not actually being born, through “Little Green” a fresh, new time is beginning.  Partnering the personification of the spring with the winters who “cannot fade her” Mitchell is skillfully able to hint at the passing of time.  Personification is used again through the “Northern Lights” who possess the ability to “perform.”  This performance alludes to a pleasant comfortable atmosphere contrasting but proving the fluctuations of life.

Through personification, characterization, and imagery, Joni Mitchell is able to portray to the listeners that life is filled with many ups and downs.  This idea that “there’ll be sorrow” not only is true in Joni’s situation, but throughout life, filling every aspect of everyday.