Unpacking 'Wicked Loathing': More Than Just A Feeling
The world of musical theatre is rich with complex emotions, but few are explored with such raw, unadulterated intensity as the concept of "wicked loathing" in the iconic musical Wicked. From the very first notes of "What Is This Feeling?", audiences are plunged into a whirlwind of mutual disdain between two young women destined to become legendary figures in Oz: Elphaba and Galinda. This initial, seemingly insurmountable hatred becomes the unlikely bedrock for one of the most compelling narratives on friendship, prejudice, and self-discovery ever told on stage.
Beyond the vibrant costumes and soaring melodies, Wicked delves deep into the human psyche, presenting "loathing" not as a static endpoint, but as a dynamic starting point. It challenges us to look beyond initial impressions and consider how even the most intense negative emotions can evolve, revealing layers of misunderstanding, fear, and eventually, a profound connection. This article will explore the multifaceted nature of "wicked loathing" as portrayed in the musical, examining its origins, its impact on the characters, and its enduring resonance with audiences worldwide.
Table of Contents
- The Genesis of "Wicked Loathing": A Musical Phenomenon
- "What Is This Feeling?": Anatomy of a Contradiction
- Elphaba and Galinda: The Characters Behind the "Wicked Loathing"
- Unpacking "Wicked": Beyond Good and Evil
- The Evolution of "Wicked Loathing": From Disdain to Understanding
- The Enduring Appeal of "Wicked Loathing" in Storytelling
- Experiencing "Wicked": A Timeless Journey
- The Psychological Depth of "Wicked Loathing"
The Genesis of "Wicked Loathing": A Musical Phenomenon
The musical Wicked, based on Gregory Maguire's 1995 novel *Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West*, has captivated millions since its Broadway debut in 2003. It offers a compelling prequel to L. Frank Baum's classic *The Wonderful Wizard of Oz*, reimagining the backstory of its most infamous characters. Far from being a simple tale of good versus evil, Wicked plunges into the complexities of morality, power, and perception. It's a timeless musical that anyone can enjoy, with its broad appeal spanning ages 9 to 99, proving its universal themes resonate deeply across generations. At the heart of its early narrative, and indeed, its immediate iconic status, lies the song "What Is This Feeling?". This number doesn't just introduce the audience to the primary characters, Elphaba and Galinda; it immediately establishes their fraught relationship through a powerful, almost visceral expression of mutual "wicked loathing." It's a moment of pure, unadulterated animosity, setting the stage for the dramatic transformations that will unfold throughout the story. The sheer intensity of their initial dislike is what makes their eventual bond so profoundly impactful, showcasing how deep-seated prejudices can be overcome by shared experiences and a willingness to see beyond the surface."What Is This Feeling?": Anatomy of a Contradiction
"What Is This Feeling?" is a pivotal song from the musical Wicked, where Elphaba and Galinda express their mutual loathing for each other. It’s a masterclass in musical theatre, capturing the raw, immediate, and almost comical antipathy between two polar opposite personalities forced into close quarters at Shiz University. The original cast of Wicked singing "Loathing," specifically Kristin Chenoweth as Galinda and Idina Menzel as Elphaba, brought an unforgettable dynamic to this scene. Their performances, immortalized in the *Wicked Original Broadway Cast Recording/2003*, provided to YouTube by Universal Music Group, perfectly encapsulate the song's biting humor and underlying tension. The lyrics are undeniably direct, leaving no room for ambiguity about their feelings. Galinda, with her seemingly perfect demeanor, declares, "Though I do admit it came on fast, Yes, loathing, unadulterated loathing for your face!" Elphaba retorts with equal venom, "Your voice!" Galinda continues, "Your clothing!" And then, in a moment of shared, albeit hateful, harmony, they conclude, "Let's just say I loathe it all, every little trait, however small makes my very flesh begin to crawl with simple, utter loathing. It's so pure, so strong!" The word "loathing" is repeated many times throughout the song, alongside other expressions of hatred and disdain, cementing the central emotion. This isn't just dislike; it's a profound, almost philosophical detestation, so intense it feels "pure" and "strong."The Strange Exhilaration of Detestation
One of the most intriguing aspects of "What Is This Feeling?" is the paradoxical sense of "strange exhilaration" the students, including Elphaba and Galinda, find in such total detestation. This line, "There's a strange exhilaration, students, in such total detestation, students," points to a peculiar human tendency: the almost addictive quality of intense negative emotion. When dislike is so absolute, so clear-cut, it can sometimes feel oddly liberating. There’s no ambiguity, no grey area; just pure, unadulterated contempt. This clarity, however twisted, can provide a perverse sense of focus and energy. For Elphaba and Galinda, this shared loathing initially defines their relationship, providing a common ground, albeit a negative one. It's a powerful bond, even if it's born of antagonism. This early, intense "wicked loathing" sets the stage for a dramatic arc, as the audience is left to wonder how such potent animosity could ever transform into something else entirely. The promise, "And I will be loathing for forever, loathing truly, deeply loathing you, loathing you for my whole life long," serves as a dramatic irony, given the complex journey their relationship undertakes.A Dance of Disdain: Viral Choreography
The visceral nature of their mutual "wicked loathing" is not confined to the lyrics alone; it's powerfully expressed through the song's choreography. The dance is meant to physically invoke feelings of frustration, a kinetic manifestation of their internal turmoil. The 25 seconds of viral choreography that comes at the very end of the song, as Glinda and Elphaba's loathing reaches a fever pitch, has become particularly iconic. This sequence, characterized by sharp, angular movements and synchronized exasperation, perfectly encapsulates their shared disdain. Performances like the one by the 2007 cast appearing at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood, on April 18, 2007, captured the essence of this physical expression of animosity. More recently, this "loathing dance" has found a new life on platforms like TikTok, with users like Cassi (@cassiscastle) providing tutorials to "learn the loathing dance from the *Wicked* movie." This viral spread highlights how deeply the emotional core of the song, and its physical representation, resonates with audiences, allowing them to embody the "pure, strong" feeling of "wicked loathing" themselves.Elphaba and Galinda: The Characters Behind the "Wicked Loathing"
The heart of *Wicked*'s narrative, and the driving force behind the initial "wicked loathing," lies in its two central characters: Elphaba and Galinda (who later becomes Glinda). These two young women, destined to become the Good Witch and the Wicked Witch of the West respectively, first met as roommates at Shiz University. Their introduction to each other is anything but harmonious. Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West, is introduced as a college student who was born with emerald green skin. Because of this visible difference, she was often ostracized and loved by no one, leading to a life of isolation and misunderstanding. Her intelligence and powerful magical abilities are often overshadowed by the prejudice she faces. She is earnest, passionate, and deeply moral, though her methods can be unconventional and her temper quick. Her initial reaction to Galinda is one of deep suspicion and annoyance, seeing her as everything she is not: popular, privileged, and superficially charming. Galinda, on the other hand, is the epitome of popular girl charm. She is beautiful, vivacious, and initially quite self-absorbed. Her world revolves around social standing and outward appearances. Her initial "wicked loathing" for Elphaba stems from Elphaba's unconventional nature and her refusal to conform to Galinda's social norms. Galinda finds Elphaba's green skin, her awkwardness, and her intense personality deeply unsettling, leading to her famously cataloging Elphaba's "face," "voice," and "clothing" as sources of her "unadulterated loathing." Their contrasting personalities and backgrounds create the perfect storm for the intense animosity that defines their early relationship.Unpacking "Wicked": Beyond Good and Evil
One of the most profound messages of *Wicked* is that there are really not any "wicked" witches, just misunderstood girls with magical powers. This central theme challenges the simplistic good-versus-evil dichotomy presented in *The Wizard of Oz*. Gregory Maguire's original 1995 book, *Wicked*, from which the musical draws its inspiration, delves deeply into this revisionist history. In his book, Maguire names the Wicked Witch of the West "Elphaba" (a name derived from the initials of L. Frank Baum, the author of *The Wizard of Oz*) and the Wicked Witch of the East "Nessarose." The musical and the book both explore how circumstances, propaganda, and personal choices shape an individual's destiny and public perception. The familiar narrative of the Wicked Witch of the West melting into nothingness when Dorothy Gale throws a bucketful of water over her, according to the original 1900 book edition and the 1939 film version of *The Wizard of Oz*, is given a tragic context in *Wicked*. Yes, Elphaba Thropp dies in the original 1995 book version of *Wicked* by Gregory Maguire; she dies from having a bucket of water thrown on her by Dorothy Gale. However, the musical offers a more nuanced, and ultimately hopeful, fate for Elphaba, leaving her ultimate demise ambiguous and open to interpretation, suggesting she finds a way to escape her perceived end. The musical also recontextualizes other familiar elements from Oz. Dorothy's house had landed on the Wicked Witch of the East, killing her, and setting in motion the quest for the Ruby Slippers (which were silver in Baum's book). In *Wicked*, this witch is Nessarose, Elphaba's sister, and the Wicked Witch of the West (Elphaba) wanted the slippers that had belonged to her. The unnamed wicked witches of the East and of the West respectively live in the Land of Oz's blue Munchkin Country and yellow Winkie Country, establishing a geographical and cultural context for their supposed villainy. The entire narrative serves to humanize these figures, turning them from archetypal villains into complex individuals grappling with their powers, their identities, and the prejudices of a society that labels them as "wicked."The Nuance of "Wicked" in Context
The very word "wicked" itself carries a fascinating duality, a nuance that the musical expertly plays upon. While it traditionally denotes evil or malevolence, the term can also be used colloquially to describe something exceptionally good, impressive, or even a bit mischievous. For instance, a "wicked sense of humor" typically refers to a sharp, clever, or dark sense of humor that may involve making jokes or comments that are considered edgy, provocative, or even offensive to some. This secondary meaning adds another layer to the title of the musical. In *Wicked*, the audience is invited to question who is truly "wicked." Is it the green-skinned girl who uses her magic to fight injustice, or the seemingly benevolent Wizard who manipulates the populace? Is it the initial "wicked loathing" between two roommates, or the societal structures that foster such division? The musical skillfully blurs these lines, forcing us to confront our own preconceived notions of good and evil. This clever play on words enriches the narrative, making the journey of Elphaba and Galinda not just about overcoming personal animosity, but about challenging the very definitions that society imposes.The Evolution of "Wicked Loathing": From Disdain to Understanding
The journey from initial "wicked loathing" to a profound, if complicated, bond is the emotional core of *Wicked*. The song "What Is This Feeling?" serves as a powerful opening salvo, but it is merely the beginning. As Elphaba and Galinda are forced to interact, to live together, and to face external challenges, their animosity slowly begins to erode. Shared experiences, moments of vulnerability, and a gradual understanding of each other's perspectives chip away at the "pure, strong" detestation they initially felt. This transformation is not instantaneous or linear. There are moments of regression, misunderstandings, and renewed friction. However, the musical masterfully illustrates how empathy can blossom even in the most barren emotional landscapes. Galinda, initially superficial, begins to see beyond Elphaba's green skin and awkwardness, recognizing her immense talent, integrity, and the depth of her character. Elphaba, in turn, starts to appreciate Galinda's unexpected loyalty, her genuine desire to help, and her capacity for growth beyond her initial vanity. The line, "And I will be loathing for forever, loathing truly, deeply loathing you, loathing you for my whole life long," becomes a poignant counterpoint to their eventual relationship. While they may never fully shed their differences, their bond evolves into one of mutual respect, admiration, and even love. Their "wicked loathing" transforms into a complex tapestry of shared history, sacrifice, and an unbreakable connection forged in the fires of adversity. It's a testament to the idea that even the most intense negative feelings can be the prelude to unexpected and powerful alliances.The Enduring Appeal of "Wicked Loathing" in Storytelling
The dynamic of "wicked loathing" and its subsequent evolution in *Wicked* is a key reason for the musical's enduring appeal. It taps into universal human experiences: the challenge of getting along with someone you initially despise, the pain of being misunderstood, and the power of unlikely friendships. Audiences resonate with Elphaba's struggle for acceptance and Galinda's journey of self-discovery. This narrative arc provides immense satisfaction, demonstrating that even the most seemingly incompatible individuals can find common ground and forge meaningful connections. The story's ability to subvert expectations and humanize its "villains" has had a profound impact on popular culture. It encourages critical thinking about narratives and challenges audiences to look beyond surface appearances. The initial "wicked loathing" between the two leads provides a dramatic tension that keeps viewers engaged, while the gradual shift towards understanding and loyalty offers a powerful message of hope and reconciliation. This intricate character development, anchored by their initial intense dislike, elevates *Wicked* beyond a simple fantasy tale, making it a powerful commentary on society, prejudice, and the transformative power of empathy.Experiencing "Wicked": A Timeless Journey
For anyone who hasn't yet had the pleasure of seeing the show, experiencing *Wicked* live is a truly unforgettable event. As mentioned, it is a timeless musical that anybody can enjoy, truly from ages 9 to 99. The energy of the live performance, the incredible vocal talents of the cast, and the stunning visual spectacle combine to create an immersive theatrical experience. Whether it's the raw emotion of "What Is This Feeling?" or the soaring power of "Defying Gravity," the songs in *Wicked* are integral to its storytelling. For more information about the songs in *Wicked*, you can visit dedicated musical pages or official show websites. Memorable performances, such as the one by the 2007 cast appearing at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood on April 18, 2007, continue to be celebrated and shared, demonstrating the show's lasting impact. These live renditions capture the nuances and intensity of the characters' relationships, from their initial "wicked loathing" to their profound, complex bond. The musical’s continued success on stages worldwide, alongside its upcoming cinematic adaptation, solidifies its place as a modern classic, inviting new generations to discover the magic and the powerful lessons embedded within its narrative.Beyond the Stage: The Cultural Impact of "Wicked"
The cultural footprint of *Wicked* extends far beyond the Broadway stage. Its themes of friendship, identity, and challenging the status quo have resonated deeply, inspiring countless discussions and creative works. The musical has sparked a renewed interest in the Oz universe, encouraging audiences to reconsider classic tales from new perspectives. Its iconic songs are frequently performed in schools and competitions, and its characters have become beloved figures in their own right. The viral spread of elements like the "loathing dance" on platforms like TikTok further illustrates its pervasive cultural influence. This digital engagement allows fans to interact with the show's themes and choreography in new
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