Introduction: The Magic Behind “What Is This Feeling Lyrics”
The phrase what is this feeling lyrics instantly transports fans to the vibrant world of Wicked, the Broadway masterpiece that reimagines the lives of Oz’s most famous witches, Elphaba and Glinda. This iconic song, “What Is This Feeling?”, captures the electric tension between the two characters with its sharp wit, catchy melody, and unforgettable lyrics. For those searching for what is this feeling lyrics, it’s more than just words on a page—it’s a window into a story of rivalry, growth, and unexpected connection. In this article, we dive deep into the meaning, context, and cultural impact of what is this feeling lyrics, exploring why this song resonates with audiences worldwide. Whether you’re a Wicked enthusiast or a newcomer, this exploration of what is this feeling lyrics will leave you enchanted and inspired.
The Origin of “What Is This Feeling Lyrics”
The what is this feeling lyrics come from the musical Wicked, which premiered in 2003 and was composed by Stephen Schwartz. The song appears early in the show, during the first act, when Elphaba and Glinda (then Galinda) meet as roommates at Shiz University. The what is this feeling lyrics perfectly encapsulate their immediate dislike for one another, expressed through sarcastic banter and exaggerated disdain. Schwartz crafted the what is this feeling lyrics to be both humorous and relatable, tapping into universal experiences of clashing personalities. The song’s upbeat tempo and clever wordplay make the what is this feeling lyrics a standout moment in the musical, setting the stage for the characters’ evolving relationship.
Breaking Down the “What Is This Feeling Lyrics”
Let’s take a closer look at the what is this feeling lyrics to understand their brilliance. The song begins with Glinda and Elphaba singing in unison, questioning the intense emotions they feel toward each other. The what is this feeling lyrics include lines like, “What is this feeling, so sudden and new? I felt the moment I laid eyes on you.” These words are dripping with irony, as the “feeling” they describe is not love but loathing. The what is this feeling lyrics use exaggerated language, such as “My pulse is rushing” and “My head is reeling,” to mimic the intensity of a love song while subverting it with humor. The chorus, where they declare “Loathing! Unadulterated loathing,” is the heart of the what is this feeling lyrics, delivering a punchy and memorable hook that audiences can’t help but sing along to.
The what is this feeling lyrics also incorporate the ensemble, with Shiz University students joining in to amplify the drama. This communal aspect of the what is this feeling lyrics reflects the social dynamics of college life, where gossip and rivalries often take center stage. Schwartz’s genius lies in making the what is this feeling lyrics both specific to Elphaba and Glinda’s story and universally relatable, capturing the spark of instant dislike that anyone might feel in a new environment.
The Emotional Depth of “What Is This Feeling Lyrics”
While the what is this feeling lyrics are undeniably funny, they also carry emotional weight. At their core, the what is this feeling lyrics reveal the insecurities and vulnerabilities of both characters. Glinda, the popular and privileged blonde, feels threatened by Elphaba’s unapologetic individuality. Meanwhile, Elphaba, an outcast due to her green skin, bristles at Glinda’s superficiality. The what is this feeling lyrics serve as a defense mechanism, allowing both characters to mask their deeper fears with bravado. By examining the what is this feeling lyrics, we see the seeds of their eventual friendship, as their “loathing” is rooted in misunderstanding rather than true hatred.
The what is this feeling lyrics also highlight the theme of prejudice, a central motif in Wicked. Elphaba’s green skin makes her a target of scorn, and the what is this feeling lyrics reflect the snap judgments people make based on appearances. Glinda’s contribution to the what is this feeling lyrics shows her complicity in this prejudice, while Elphaba’s sharp retorts reveal her resilience. The what is this feeling lyrics thus serve as a microcosm of the musical’s broader exploration of acceptance and identity.
Cultural Impact of “What Is This Feeling Lyrics”
The what is this feeling lyrics have transcended the stage, becoming a cultural phenomenon. Fans of Wicked often cite the what is this feeling lyrics as one of the musical’s most quotable moments, with phrases like “unadulterated loathing” entering everyday vernacular. The what is this feeling lyrics have inspired countless memes, fan videos, and social media posts, with fans playfully applying the song to their own rivalries or frenemy dynamics. The universal appeal of the what is this feeling lyrics lies in their ability to capture a specific emotion—dislike at first sight—in a way that’s both exaggerated and relatable.
The what is this feeling lyrics have also been performed in various contexts outside the musical, from high school productions to talent shows. Their catchy melody and theatrical flair make the what is this feeling lyrics a favorite for performers looking to showcase their vocal and comedic skills. Additionally, the what is this feeling lyrics have been covered by artists and featured in tribute albums, further cementing their place in popular culture.
Why “What Is This Feeling Lyrics” Resonate Today
In 2025, the what is this feeling lyrics remain as relevant as ever. In a world increasingly divided by differences—whether political, cultural, or personal—the what is this feeling lyrics remind us of the power of first impressions and the potential for growth. The what is this feeling lyrics encourage audiences to question their initial judgments and consider the humanity behind those they might instinctively dislike. This message, embedded in the what is this feeling lyrics, aligns with Wicked’s broader themes of empathy and understanding, making the song a timeless anthem.
The what is this feeling lyrics also resonate in the age of social media, where online feuds and polarized opinions often mirror the exaggerated “loathing” of Elphaba and Glinda. By singing the what is this feeling lyrics, audiences can laugh at the absurdity of snap judgments while reflecting on their own biases. The what is this feeling lyrics thus serve as both entertainment and a gentle nudge toward self-awareness.
How to Appreciate “What Is This Feeling Lyrics” as a Fan
For those searching for what is this feeling lyrics, there are many ways to deepen your appreciation of the song. First, listen to the original Broadway cast recording, featuring Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda and Idina Menzel as Elphaba. Their chemistry brings the what is this feeling lyrics to life, with Chenoweth’s bright soprano contrasting Menzel’s powerful belt. Watching a live performance of Wicked is another way to experience the what is this feeling lyrics in context, as the choreography and staging add visual flair to the song.
Fans can also explore the what is this feeling lyrics by learning the song themselves. The what is this feeling lyrics are widely available online, often accompanied by sheet music or karaoke tracks. Singing the what is this feeling lyrics with a friend can be a fun way to channel the playful rivalry of Elphaba and Glinda. Additionally, analyzing the what is this feeling lyrics through a literary lens—examining their rhyme scheme, word choice, and thematic depth—can reveal the craftsmanship behind Schwartz’s work.
The Legacy of “What Is This Feeling Lyrics”
As Wicked continues to captivate audiences worldwide, the what is this feeling lyrics remain a cornerstone of its legacy. The song’s blend of humor, heart, and social commentary ensures that the what is this feeling lyrics will endure for generations. With the Wicked movie adaptation gaining attention, new audiences are discovering the what is this feeling lyrics, bringing fresh energy to the song. The what is this feeling lyrics have also inspired fan fiction, artwork, and even academic discussions, showcasing their far-reaching impact.
The what is this feeling lyrics are a testament to the power of music to tell stories and evoke emotions. They remind us that even the most intense feelings—whether loathing or love—can lead to unexpected connections. As long as Wicked is performed, the what is this feeling lyrics will continue to spark laughter, reflection, and sing-alongs.
Conclusion: The Enduring Power of “What Is This Feeling Lyrics”
The what is this feeling lyrics are more than just a catchy tune from Wicked—they’re a celebration of human complexity, wrapped in wit and melody. From their origins in Stephen Schwartz’s brilliant score to their status as a cultural touchstone, the what is this feeling lyrics capture the magic of musical theater. They invite us to laugh at our flaws, question our prejudices, and embrace the possibility of change. Whether you’re belting out the what is this feeling lyrics in the shower or analyzing their deeper meaning, this song is a reminder of why Wicked remains a beloved classic. So, the next time you hear the what is this feeling lyrics, let them sweep you away to the land of Oz, where loathing can turn into something truly wonderful.
