Final answer:
The tonality of "Big Yellow Taxi" is a combination of cheerful musical elements and critical lyrics about environmental loss, characterized by lively guitar riffs and Joni Mitchell's vibrant vocals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tonality of the song "Big Yellow Taxi" by Joni Mitchell reflects a combination of both critical and whimsical elements. Mitchell uses a cheerful, upbeat melody juxtaposed with lyrics that convey a serious message about environmental conservation and the consequences of unchecked commercial development. The folksy tune carries a sense of irony, as the lively, pop-infused sound contrasts with the overarching theme of the song—the loss of natural beauty for the sake of modern convenience. The use of bright guitar riffs and Mitchell's clear, vibrant vocals add to a tone that feels simultaneously carefree and critical, a notable juxtaposition that encourages listeners to think more deeply about the content of the lyrics while still enjoying the catchy tune.