Lyric discussion by Baked_Potato 

Cover art for Turtle Blues lyrics by Big Brother & The Holding Company

This was one of the few Joplin-penned songs. It really sums up her personality though. Joplin's insecurities were so deep. They floated beneath the surface of Janis's passion and fire. Her insecurities prevented her from being able to open up to lovers and other people in her life without fear. To counter the fear, she adapted an overwhelming personality. The shell Janis (the turtle) is hiding under, is her fears. It's a beautiful song.