What Is This Feeling? (Live)

Song Meaning

Idina Menzel's rendition of "What Is This Feeling? (Live)" from *Wicked* is far more than a simple theatrical duet; it's a darkly comedic exploration of human psychology, specifically the bizarre cocktail of emotions that can arise from intense dislike. Sung from the perspective of Glinda and Elphaba, the song dissects the initial, visceral reaction to someone perceived as fundamentally 'other.' It's not just aversion; it's a potent brew of revulsion and a strange, almost gleeful, fascination with that very revulsion. The lyrics cleverly highlight this contradiction. The characters acknowledge the suddenness and strength of their negative feelings, even admitting a certain 'exhilaration' in their 'total detestation.' This hints at the uncomfortable truth that strong emotions, even negative ones, can be stimulating and, in a twisted way, validating. The live performance amplifies this dynamic, capturing the raw energy and theatricality inherent in the song's exploration of antipathy. The song's brilliance lies in its exaggeration. The over-the-top expressions of loathing serve as a mirror, reflecting the often-irrational nature of first impressions and the human tendency to quickly categorize and judge others. The almost scientific dissection of their feelings – 'My pulse is rushing, my head is reeling' – adds a layer of ironic detachment. It's as if they're observing their own negative reactions with a morbid curiosity. This is particularly relevant in today's social climate, where snap judgments and online outrage are commonplace. "What Is This Feeling?" dares to acknowledge the darker impulses that drive these behaviors, albeit in a theatrical and humorous context. Ultimately, the song's meaning transcends mere dislike. It touches upon themes of prejudice, the fear of the unknown, and the human need to define oneself in opposition to others. The lyrics reveal how easily aversion can be amplified through shared experience, as seen in the ensemble's echoing of Glinda's sentiments. However, the song's campy delivery and theatrical context prevent it from becoming preachy or moralizing. Instead, it offers a cathartic release, allowing the audience to laugh at the absurdity of intense dislike and to perhaps recognize their own capacity for irrational aversion. The question posed in the song's title is not merely rhetorical; it's an invitation to examine the often-uncomfortable emotions that shape our interactions with others.