Twisted

Joni Mitchell's song 'Twisted' is a playful and defiant anthem that challenges societal norms and the conventional understanding of sanity. The lyrics narrate the story of a protagonist who is deemed 'crazy' by their analyst, but who confidently rejects this label. Instead, the protagonist embraces their unique perspective and intelligence, suggesting that what others perceive as madness is actually a form of genius. This theme is underscored by the repeated assertion that the analyst is wrong, and the protagonist's mind is simply different, not defective.

The song is rich with metaphors and cultural references that highlight the protagonist's unconventional thinking. For instance, the mention of historical figures like Edison and Einstein, who were also misunderstood in their time, serves to reinforce the idea that true innovation often looks like madness to the uninitiated. The protagonist's childhood anecdotes, such as drinking vodka at a young age and refusing to ride double-decker buses, further illustrate their early awareness of their unique perspective and their refusal to conform to societal expectations.

Musically, 'Twisted' is a jazz-influenced piece that complements its lyrical content with a sense of improvisation and freedom. Joni Mitchell, known for her eclectic style and poetic lyrics, uses this song to celebrate individuality and the courage to stand by one's convictions, even when faced with misunderstanding and ridicule. The song ultimately delivers a message of self-acceptance and the importance of embracing one's quirks and idiosyncrasies as strengths rather than weaknesses.