<<unlike other songs where the lyrics depict fiction, this album is about TRUTH.>>
Much of the TRUTH to which you refer deals with things which we're already too familiar with; materialism, hunger, politics and corruption. I don't think these songs were eye-openers for anyone. And obviously, as Joni fans we're not made uncomfortable by hearing her sing about unhappy subjects. She just did a better job of it on her other records, it feels too forced and cliche-ridden here. Stevie Wonder can write songs that make you feel emotional and compassionate about these same topics; Joni just comes off as being judgemental and crabby. There's some good stuff on DED to be sure, but it's a struggle to pull it up through the over-produced muck and heavy-handed writing. Unfortunately, I'm afraid this project soured Joni on the collaborative process and she'll never be willing to give up as much control on future works like she did on DED. Bob NP: Eric Clapton, "I Can't Hold Out"
