Nothing Can Be Done

Joni Mitchell · The Complete Geffen Recordings [2007]

Must I forgive you each time

And say you don't know what you're doing

There are no victimless crimes I know of

Out here in these graffiti ruins, my love



Oh, I am not old, I'm told

But I am not young

Oh, and nothing can be done

Don't start my heart is a smoking gun

Oh, and nothing can be done

Nothing can be done



I heard you leaving, oh, late last night

I heard you screaming down the mountain

Like you were running red lights

You had some trash-can-rock-band pounding



Oh, I am not old, I'm told

But I am not young

Oh, and nothing can be done

Don't start my heart is a smoking gun

Oh, and nothing can be done

Nothing can be done

Nothing, oh

Nothing can be done



Must I surrender, oh, with grace

The things I loved when I was younger, sweet embrace

Must I remember your face so well

Nothing can be done

What do I do here with this hunger?



Oh, I am not old, I'm told

But I am not young

Oh, and nothing can be done

Don't start my heart is a smoking gun

Oh, and nothing can be done

Nothing can be done



And nothing can be done

Nothing can be done

Can be done

Oh, nothing can be done

Nothing can be done

And nothing can be done

Nothing can be done



Nothing can be done

Nothing can be done

Nothing can be done

Nothing Can Be Done

Joni Mitchell's "Nothing Can Be Done" stands as a poignant testament to her mastery of introspective balladry, capturing the quiet resignation that often defines her later work. Recorded for The Complete Geffen Recordings, the track exemplifies her signature blend of acoustic guitar, intricate vocal phrasing, and lyrical depth that explores themes of futility and emotional endurance. While the song lacks the overt drama of her earlier hits, its stripped-down arrangement highlights Mitchell's ability to convey profound narrative weight through subtle dynamics and melodic restraint. As a key component of her extensive discography, the recording reflects her continued evolution as a songwriter who prioritized authenticity over commercial flash, offering listeners a glimpse into the personal struggles that fueled her most enduring artistic contributions.