Finale
Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel Lyrics

The song "Finale" from the musical Wicked is a powerful conclusion to the story, encapsulated in a bittersweet and well-crafted tune that combines themes of love, betrayal, and self-discovery. The lyrics "No one mourns the wicked" are a jarring juxtaposition against the backdrop of the scene, as the townspeople celebrate the demise of the Wicked Witch of the West. The joyous tone in the lyrics "Now at last there's joy throughout the land" seems at odds with the underlying message of the song, that the Witch's story is ultimately one of tragedy and missed opportunities.

The song's protagonist reflects on the impact that the Witch had on her life, and how it changed her for the better. She is torn between feelings of gratitude and sadness, recognizing that her friend's untimely end leaves her with a sense of loss. The lyrics "Who can say if I've been changed for the better" are a poignant reminder that life is never black and white, and that even difficult experiences can lead to personal growth. The recurring refrain "because I knew you" serves as a reminder of the depth of the friendship that developed between the two women, and highlights the central theme of the musical- that even those who seem wicked can be redeemed through friendship and love.