Meaning: This quote by Joni Mitchell about Paul Simon likely refers to the songwriting process and the challenge of fitting a large number of words into a song. Both Paul Simon and Joni Mitchell are renowned for their poetic and intricate lyrics, so it's not surprising that Mitchell would make such a comment about Simon's songwriting.

Paul Simon is known for his intricate wordplay and storytelling in his songwriting. Many of his songs feature dense, intricate lyrics that tell detailed stories or convey complex emotions. Mitchell's comment about Simon "piling up a lot of words" suggests that Simon's songwriting style involves using a large number of words to convey his message or tell his story.

The phrase "more than the bar could handle" in Mitchell's quote could be interpreted in a few ways. It could refer to the limitations of traditional song structures, where there is a limit to the number of words that can fit into a verse or chorus without overwhelming the listener. It could also suggest that there is a point where adding more words to a song detracts from its impact or cohesiveness.

It's worth noting that Mitchell's comment ends with "and I stopped!" which could indicate that she personally found Simon's lyrical style to be overwhelming or perhaps challenging to emulate in her own songwriting. This could be seen as a playful nod to the differences in their respective songwriting styles.

Joni Mitchell herself is revered for her poetic and evocative lyrics, so her perspective on Paul Simon's approach to songwriting provides valuable insight into the creative processes of these two iconic musicians. Mitchell's comment offers a glimpse into the level of craftsmanship and thought that goes into crafting lyrics for songs, as well as the different approaches that songwriters can take.

In summary, Joni Mitchell's quote about Paul Simon's songwriting style provides an intriguing look into the intricate and complex nature of Simon's lyrical approach. It also sheds light on the challenges and considerations that songwriters face when crafting their words and stories within the confines of a song. Both Paul Simon and Joni Mitchell have left a lasting impact on the world of music with their distinctive and masterful songwriting, and this quote offers a glimpse into the creative processes that have contributed to their legacies.