Wicked Social Commentary

In an interview with CNN Gregory Maguire revealed that his novels are a commentary on today’s society and politics, particularly in America. Before his massive success with Wicked, Maguire had been a traditional artist, writing children’s books and struggling to make a living with the small amount he was able to garner from the stories he published. Then Wicked hit the shelves and it was not long before Gregory Maguire was a household name.

What are some of the things that Maguire is commenting on and questioning in Wicked?  Perhaps there is something deeper going on here than simple social commentary. With Wicked, Maguire takes one of our favorite childhood stories and turns it upside down, something that he has now done with Cinderella and Snow White as well. Considering the capabilities that popular literature has in the formation of future social thought, it does make us wonder where exactly Wicked and other such popular literature is directing us. Either way, Wicked tickets to see the musical based on Maguire’s book are still one of the most popular things to buy on Broadway today.

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