The True Meaning Of 'What Is This Feeling?': Loathing, Satire, And The Wicked Movie Update

The question "What is this feeling?" is one of the most famously misunderstood lines in modern musical theatre, but the answer is as clear as a green face: it's pure, unadulterated loathing. This iconic song is the centerpiece of the blockbuster Broadway musical *Wicked*, serving as the pivotal moment where the relationship between Elphaba (the future Wicked Witch of the West) and Galinda (the future Glinda the Good) begins its tumultuous journey. As of December 21, 2025, the lyrics are more relevant than ever, especially with the highly anticipated two-part film adaptation set for release, which promises to bring the song's satirical genius to a massive new audience. The song, officially titled "What Is This Feeling?", is not about vague confusion or a budding friendship, but an intense, mutual dislike that both characters are struggling to name. It is a brilliant piece of musical satire by composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz, who expertly uses the language of innocent, dramatic teen angst to describe a profound, almost spiritual hatred. The song’s power lies in this irony, making it a fan favorite and a crucial narrative device in the story of the two most famous witches of Oz.

The Anatomy of Loathing: Context and Lyrical Genius

To truly appreciate the genius of "What Is This Feeling?", one must understand its placement and context within the narrative of *Wicked*. It is the fourth song in Act I, occurring shortly after Elphaba arrives at Shiz University. The song is a direct result of the universe—specifically Madame Morrible—forcing the two diametrically opposed characters to become roommates.

The Moment of Collision at Shiz University

When Elphaba Thropp, with her green skin and intense intellect, is paired with the blonde, bubbly, and popular Galinda Upland, the clash is immediate and spectacular. The song is structured as a series of letters the two girls are writing to their respective families, a classic theatrical device that allows the audience to hear their inner, unfiltered thoughts. The core of the song is the repeated word: "Loathing."

• Elphaba's Perspective: Elphaba sees Galinda as a frivolous, self-obsessed 'terror' and a 'tartar.' Her lines are sharp and judgmental, reflecting her feeling of alienation and Galinda’s seemingly effortless popularity.
• Galinda's Perspective: Galinda views Elphaba as an unpolished, socially awkward outcast who is a constant source of embarrassment. She sarcastically refers to herself as a 'martyr' for having to share a room with her.

The genius of lyricist Stephen Schwartz is in the chorus, where they sing in unison: "What is this feeling, so sudden and new? / I felt the moment I laid eyes on you." The dramatic, almost operatic delivery of this line, which typically signifies the onset of romantic love in musical theater, is subverted here to represent pure, visceral disgust. This intentional use of satire is what elevates the song from a simple duet to a masterclass in musical comedy.

Musical Elements and Thematic Irony

The song’s musical composition perfectly complements its satirical lyrics. According to commentary from Stephen Schwartz, the song was originally a lovely, traditional waltz tune, which was then deliberately contrasted with the lyrics of disgust to create a playful, ironic effect. This use of irony is a key element of the song's enduring popularity and its complexity.

The Power of the Ensemble

While the core of the song is the duet between Elphaba and Galinda, the addition of the Shiz University students—the ensemble—is critical. The students echo the central question, "What is this feeling?", but they are clearly talking about the shared, intense dislike they feel for Elphaba. This reinforces Elphaba's isolation and Galinda's status as the social leader. The ensemble's repetitive, almost chant-like background vocals amplify the feeling of collective judgment and ostracization. The music starts with a simple, almost conversational tone in the spoken letters, then builds to a powerful, harmonized climax. The shift from the conversational to the operatic highlights the dramatic, exaggerated nature of their 'loathing,' which is so pure and strong that it feels like a monumental, life-altering event. This dramatic flair is a hallmark of Broadway musical theater ballads, but used here for comedic and thematic effect.

The Wicked Movie and the New Generation of Loathing (2024 Update)

The relevance of "What Is This Feeling?" has surged with the confirmed casting and production updates for the long-awaited *Wicked* film adaptation. This movie, which is being split into two parts, is set to introduce the world of Oz and its witches to an entirely new generation.

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande: A Dynamic Duo

The casting of the two leads has been a major topic of discussion among Wicked fans and musical theater enthusiasts.

• Elphaba: Cynthia Erivo. Erivo is an Oscar-nominated, Tony-winning actress known for her powerful, belt-heavy vocals. Her portrayal of Elphaba will bring a deep emotional resonance to the character's journey from outcast to the Wicked Witch of the West.
• Glinda: Ariana Grande. The pop superstar is a vocal powerhouse who got her start in Broadway and is a long-time fan of the musical. Her casting as Glinda the Good Witch brings massive mainstream appeal and a distinct vocal style to the role.

The on-screen rendition of "What Is This Feeling?" will be a pivotal moment in the film, a true battle of the belts between Erivo and Grande. Early clips and trailers suggest the scene will maintain the high-energy, satirical tone of the stage production. The film’s US release is scheduled for November 27, 2024, meaning the song will be back in the cultural spotlight, prompting new textual analysis and discussions about the complexity of the Elphaba and Glinda relationship.

The Deeper Meaning: From Loathing to Friendship

Ultimately, "What Is This Feeling?" is the deceptive starting point of the most enduring friendship in the land of Oz. The shared, intense emotion—even if it is hatred—is a form of connection. It forces the two women to see each other, to react to each other, and eventually, to rely on each other. The song's final, satirical lines—"It's so pure and strong!" and "My whole life long!"—foreshadow the depth of the bond they will eventually share, a bond that transcends their initial loathing and leads to powerful songs like "For Good" and Elphaba's soaring anthem, "Defying Gravity." The song is a brilliant reminder that some of the deepest connections in life begin with the strongest, most negative reactions. The lyrics capture the universal feeling of encountering someone who immediately challenges your entire worldview. The next time you hear the phrase, remember: it’s not confusion, it’s not love, it’s loathing, and it’s the foundation of one of the greatest stories ever told. This moment of intense, youthful disgust is the secret ingredient to the enduring magic of *Wicked*.

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