The song “Popular” from the movie musical Wicked is a turning point in the story, marking a shift in the relationship between the two main characters, Elphaba and Glinda. While Elphaba is shunned and ridiculed for her green skin, Glinda is popular and well-liked by their classmates at Shiz.
As Elphaba and Glinda become friends, Glinda takes it upon herself to teach Elphaba how to be well-liked and popular. She sings “Popular” in an effort to show Elphaba how to fit in and gain acceptance from their peers. The song is a showcase of Glinda’s bubbly and silly personality, as well as her strategic and thought-out approach to popularity.
Glinda’s lyrics in the song emphasize the importance of appearance, flirtation, conversation, and physical activity in becoming popular. She also notes that people like the Wizard of Oz, who are respected and admired, have achieved their popularity through these means.
Despite its lighthearted tone, “Popular” serves as a commentary on the superficiality of Oz and the lies and deceit that people tell to achieve popularity. Elphaba, who cannot hide her true self, struggles to fit in, while Glinda, who has mastered the art of superficial charm, is incredibly popular.
The song also serves as a warning, foreshadowing the vastly different paths that Elphaba and Glinda will take. Elphaba will become the Wicked Witch of the West, while Glinda will become Glinda the Good, illustrating the idea that being popular is not necessarily synonymous with being good.
Ultimately, “Popular” is a fun and catchy song that showcases Glinda’s character development and sets up the themes of Wicked’s ending.