By Aj Williams
Wicked, the untold story of the Witches of Oz, is far more than a dazzling musical spectacle or a clever reimagining of a beloved classic. Beneath its breathtaking visuals and unforgettable songs lies a soul-stirring exploration of identity, self-worth, and the transformative power of healing our inner child. At its heart, Wicked reminds us that by confronting the wounds of our past and nurturing our inner child, we can reclaim our power, embrace wholeness, and rewrite our futures with intention and authenticity.
Elphaba, the green-skinned protagonist, embodies the misunderstood inner child. From the moment she is born, she is cast aside, labeled “different,” and ridiculed for her uniqueness. Her vibrant green hue isn’t just physical—it’s a poignant metaphor for how society projects shame and judgment onto those who defy the norm. This rejection leaves her yearning for acceptance and love, an ache rooted in the unhealed wounds of her inner child.
On the other hand, Glinda is the quintessential golden child—polished, admired, and seemingly perfect. Yet, behind her sparkling exterior, she hides her own inner child, desperate for authentic connection and freedom from the performative perfection that defines her life. Together, Elphaba and Glinda’s journeys of self-discovery offer a mirror to the audience, showing the universal struggle of reconciling the light and shadow within us all.
The concept of the inner child represents the tender, vulnerable part of ourselves that carries the emotions, beliefs, and memories formed in our earliest years. When these childhood wounds are left unhealed, they often manifest as self-doubt, fear of rejection, or difficulty cultivating meaningful relationships. In Wicked, Elphaba’s story becomes a striking metaphor for inner child healing. Initially isolated by denying her need for external validation, she learns that true healing requires radical self-acceptance. Elphaba transforms her pain into power by embracing her differences and living authentically—even if it means being misunderstood or labeled “wicked.” Her journey teaches us that integration, not suppression, is the key to personal transformation.
Astrology offers a rich lens to explore the themes of inner child healing woven throughout Wicked. The Moon symbolizes our emotional needs and the inner child’s voice in an astrological birth chart. For example, a Cancer Moon, with its deep longing for emotional safety, resonates with Elphaba’s journey to find belonging. The 4th house, representing our roots and childhood, echoes her fractured relationship with her family and her struggle to feel “at home” in the world. Meanwhile, Glinda’s narrative might be shaped by Venus or Libra influences—signifying her drive to seek approval, harmony, and beauty, often at the expense of her authenticity.
The 8th house—associated with transformation, shadow work, and healing—becomes central to both characters’ arcs. Elphaba’s metamorphosis, as she owns her power and redefines her story, is the essence of 8th-house energy. Glinda also steps into her own 8th-house moment when she chooses authenticity over appearances, breaking free from the perfectionism that once controlled her (this is addressed in Wicked Part 2). And let’s not forget Chiron, the “wounded healer” in astrology, which illuminates the specific childhood wounds we are called to heal in order to step fully into our power.
Wicked teaches that healing our inner child isn’t about erasing the scars of the past; it’s about weaving them into the fabric of who we are today. Elphaba doesn’t deny her pain—instead, she integrates it, using it as the foundation for her strength. This is the essence of healing: facing your wounds with compassion, transforming them into wisdom, and choosing to grow beyond the limits they once imposed.
One of the musical’s most iconic moments, “Defying Gravity,” captures this beautifully. Elphaba’s soaring anthem of liberation reflects her decision to let go of societal expectations and fully embrace her truth. But this transformation doesn’t come easily—it mirrors the real-life challenges of inner child healing. To honor our inner child, we often have to release outdated narratives and redefine ourselves on our own terms, even when it means walking paths others won’t understand.
Glinda’s journey is equally profound, though quieter. By letting Elphaba go and standing for what’s right, she slowly moves away from the superficial life she once clung to. Her decision to prioritize authenticity over appearances speaks to the quiet but transformative power of self-awareness and vulnerability.
The lessons of Wicked is a part of the journey of self-healing. Like Elphaba’s green skin, we all carry parts of ourselves that feel unworthy, unseen, or misunderstood. These are the remnants of childhood wounds that taught us we had to conform or hide to be loved. Healing means bringing these tender parts of ourselves into the light, nurturing them, and allowing them to take their rightful place in our lives.
If the themes of Wicked resonate with you, consider these steps to begin your own inner child healing journey: Acknowledge your inner child by reflecting on moments from your childhood that shaped your beliefs about yourself. Were there times you felt unseen, unworthy, or misunderstood? Recognizing these moments is the first step in healing. Practice self-compassion, just as Elphaba learns to accept her uniqueness, embracing the parts of yourself you’ve judged or suppressed. Speak to yourself with kindness, acknowledging that your feelings and experiences are valid.
Rewrite the narrative because the world may have labeled you one way, but you have the power to redefine yourself. Challenge limiting beliefs and replace them with affirmations that honor your growth and potential. Integrate your past and present through journaling, therapy, or meditation, which can help you connect with your inner child and create a sense of harmony between who you were and who you are becoming.
Reparenting your inner child is a vital tool for healing. Through visualization, imagine yourself as the nurturing parent your inner child needed. Offer words of encouragement, love, and safety. Self-acceptance and self-love are equally essential. Embrace your unique qualities as gifts and honor the parts of you that feel vulnerable or insecure. When you take intentional steps toward your dreams, like Elphaba, you can let your past pain fuel your present power and guide you toward a future where you can thrive. Healing doesn’t happen overnight, but every step you take brings you closer to wholeness.
As Wicked shows us, healing your inner child is an ongoing journey. It takes courage, vulnerability, and persistence, but every step moves you closer to the freedom of living as your most authentic self. Whether you resonate with Elphaba’s defiance or Glinda’s quiet transformation, their stories remind us of the beauty in growth and the power of rewriting our narratives.
In the words of Elphaba, “Everyone deserves the chance to fly.” When you heal the wounds of your inner child, you find your wings. So rise, defy gravity, and step boldly into the future you deserve.
This post was originally published in Michigan Chronicle .
