How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Volume.Chapter.Paragraph) and (Volume.Chapter.Section.Paragraph)
Quote #7
If one could drown in the grass, thought Elphie, it might be the best way to die. (4.1.2.22)
Elphaba channels her inner Keats [or insert your Romantic poet of choice] here with her stylized dreams of drowning in the grass. In her post-nunnery life, Elphaba seems very interested in death. Note also the indirect allusion to water here – this time without actual water.
Quote #8
The benefit of a uniform was that one need not struggle to be unique – how many uniquenesses could the Unnamed God or nature create? One could sink selflessly into the daily pattern, one could find one's way without groping. (4.1.1.21)
Elphaba's thoughts on her uniform are really interesting, especially when we consider her conversation with Fiyero about being "more real" and special. After Fiyero's death, Elphaba's reaction is to try to lose herself entirely, even more than in her underground days.
Quote #9
"It's unbecoming," she agreed. "A perfect word for my new life. Unbecoming. I who have always been unbecoming am becoming an un." (3.1.82)
Elphaba really does love her wordplay, and here she has fun playing around with the various meanings and iterations of "unbecoming." It's also interesting that Elphaba defines her life in terms of erasing herself.