Joni Mitchell's lyrics poignantly critique the environmental and social costs of urbanization and industrial progress. The song laments the destruction of natural beauty, symbolized by "paradise," to make way for commercial developments like parking lots, hotels, and boutiques. It also highlights the irony of preserving nature in a "tree museum" while exploiting it elsewhere. The reference to DDT underscores concerns about pesticide use and its impact on wildlife. The closing verse adds a personal dimension, suggesting that not only nature but also personal relationships suffer from neglect and loss. This reflective piece serves as a reminder to appreciate what we have before it's irrevocably altered or lost. #EnvironmentalAwareness #UrbanizationCritique #Conservation #PersonalLoss
