These lyrics from the musical Wicked depict Galinda (Glinda in the film adaptation), a popular and seemingly kind-hearted young woman, attempting to "make over" Elphaba, a misunderstood and outcast girl. The song "Popular" reveals Galinda's motivations and worldview. Let's break down the underlying thoughts and background:

• Galinda's Self-Image and Worldview: Galinda is incredibly focused on popularity and social standing. She believes that popularity is the ultimate measure of success and worth. Her self-assuredness borders on arrogance; she considers herself superior and sees everyone else as "less fortunate" than herself. This isn't necessarily malicious; it's more a reflection of her naive and sheltered upbringing.

• The "Project" Mentality: Galinda views Elphaba as a "project," a chance to exert her influence and demonstrate her social skills. She sees Elphaba's transformation as a way to prove her own power and goodness. This highlights a certain lack of empathy, as she overlooks Elphaba's individuality and genuine feelings. The "makeover" is not about genuine connection but about achieving a socially desirable outcome.

• Superficiality of Popularity: The lyrics satirize the superficial nature of popularity. Galinda focuses on superficial aspects like clothing, hair, flirting techniques, and knowing the right slang. The emphasis is entirely on outward appearances and social conformity, not on inner qualities or genuine connections. The line "It's not about aptitude, it's the way you're viewed" perfectly encapsulates this shallowness.

• Hidden Insecurities: While outwardly confident, the song hints at Galinda's underlying insecurities. Her need to constantly prove her superiority and her obsessive focus on popularity suggest a fear of being disliked or losing her privileged position. The final lines, "You'll be popular…Just not quite as popular as me," reveal a subtle undercurrent of competitiveness.

• Social Commentary: The song subtly critiques societal pressures to conform and the importance placed on superficial aspects of popularity, especially in youth culture. Elphaba's reluctance to conform serves as a counterpoint to Galinda's worldview, highlighting the limitations of judging worth solely on social acceptance.

• Dramatic Irony: The audience, knowing Elphaba's eventual fate as the Wicked Witch of the West, understands the irony of Galinda's attempts to make her "popular." This contrast adds depth and complexity to both characters.

In summary, the lyrics to "Popular" aren't just about making someone popular; they're a commentary on the superficiality of popularity, the motivations behind the pursuit of social status, and the potential for misinterpreting kindness and generosity. It's a clever blend of humor, satire, and social commentary all wrapped within a catchy, upbeat tune.