In an exclusive interview, the renowned author Gregory Maguire delves deep into the world of his famous creation. His 1995 novel, "Wicked," which served as the inspiration for the highly successful Broadway musical and the upcoming movie starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, holds a special place in his literary journey. Maguire, drawing inspiration from L. Frank Baum's "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," aimed to explore the evil present in the real world through the creation of a complex fictional universe. This involved adding a new dimension to the story with elements of sexuality.

Intention and Subtlety in the Story

The novel features a significant scene where Elphaba and Glinda share a kiss. Though not included in the musical, Maguire emphasizes that it was an integral part of the plot. "That was intentional, and it was presented in a modest, restrained, and refined manner. One could envision that one of the young women felt more than the other and chose not to express it openly," he said. Additionally, he added, "Perhaps in those private moments when the lights were out and the novelist took a break, the girls shared a more intimate connection. I wanted to propose this possibility without making a definitive statement."

Exploring the Cultural Depth

Maguire's vision for "Oz" was to make it as real as Middle Earth. He strived to give it a depth of culture, history, and complexity that mirrored the world we live in. This included incorporating varieties of sexual experiences to make the story more relatable. "I wanted 'Oz' to feel alive and vibrant, with a richness that would engage readers on a deeper level. By adding these elements, the story became more than just a children's tale," he explained.

Connecting to Real-World Issues

Maguire, who is gay himself, also drew parallels between his book and the AIDS crisis. When Fiyero is murdered and Elphaba retreats to the monastery to care for the dying, he sees it as a nod to the community's struggles. "By that time, I had been living with a man for 15 years. I knew the importance of caring for those in need, even in a magical land. This was my way of addressing a significant issue through my story," he said.

The Journey of the Wicked Universe

"Wicked" has expanded with Maguire writing eight books in the universe, including the "Another Day" trilogy. His latest novel, "Elphie: A Wicked Childhood," is set to be published in 2025. Maguire's dedication to this world continues to evolve, offering readers a rich tapestry of stories and experiences.