What Is This Feeling? (feat. Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo)

"What Is This Feeling?" from the Wicked Movie Cast, featuring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, is a vibrant and humorous exploration of the intense emotions that can arise from first impressions and unexpected relationships. The song is set in the context of the musical "Wicked," which reimagines the story of the witches from "The Wizard of Oz." In this particular number, the characters Galinda and Elphaba express their immediate and overwhelming dislike for each other upon becoming roommates at Shiz University. The lyrics cleverly capture the comedic tension between the two, highlighting the absurdity and intensity of their mutual loathing.

The song uses exaggerated language and vivid imagery to convey the characters' feelings. The repeated use of the word "loathing" emphasizes the depth of their disdain, while phrases like "unadulterated loathing" and "total detestation" add a dramatic flair. Despite the negative emotions being expressed, there is a sense of exhilaration and excitement in the way the characters describe their feelings. This paradoxical enjoyment of their own hatred adds a layer of humor and irony to the song, making it both entertaining and relatable.

Culturally, "What Is This Feeling?" taps into the universal experience of encountering someone who immediately rubs you the wrong way. The song's playful tone and catchy melody make it a memorable moment in the musical, while also serving as a commentary on the nature of first impressions and the complexities of human relationships. The dynamic between Galinda and Elphaba is central to the narrative of "Wicked," and this song sets the stage for their evolving relationship, which ultimately challenges their initial perceptions of each other.