A deleted scene from the movie Wicked explains why Glinda is unable to perform magic. The scene takes place after Glinda and her classmates are knocked out during Doctor Dillamond’s arrest, and Elphaba and Fiyero save a lion cub in the forest. Elphaba returns to Shiz University and has a heart-to-heart with Glinda, discussing her struggles with learning sorcery. Elphaba suggests that Glinda has never been able to perform magic because she has never needed to, implying that Glinda’s privileged upbringing has spared her from experiencing the kind of adversity that drives people to learn magic.
Glinda’s lack of magical ability is an interesting aspect of the story, especially given her eventual transformation into the Good Witch of the North. The deleted scene provides insight into Elphaba’s perspective on Glinda’s struggles, and highlights the significant differences between the two characters. While Elphaba has always been an outcast due to her green skin, Glinda has always been accepted and even worshiped by those around her.
The deleted scene also raises questions about the nature of magic in the world of Oz. While Glinda is unable to perform magic, she is able to use it in Munchkinland later in the story. This could suggest that magic is not just a matter of innate ability, but also of circumstance and opportunity. The scene adds depth to the characters and their relationships, and provides a new perspective on the themes of the movie.
