The Song’s Structure & Themes:
- Call and Response: The song is a duet structured as a playful conversation between a man (“the Wolf”) trying to convince a woman (“the Mouse”) to stay the night, and her offering reasons to leave.
- Winter Setting: The primary theme is the snowy, cold weather outside, which serves as both a reason for the woman to stay and as a playful metaphor for temptation.
- Flirtation and Persuasion: There’s a sense of lighthearted flirtation throughout. The man’s lines are persuasive, while the woman’s express a playful reluctance and concern for social propriety.
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Dean Martin: Baby It’s Cold Outside Lyrics
I really can’t stay
Baby, it’s cold outside
I’ve got to go away
Baby, it’s cold outside
This evening has been
Hoping that you’d drop in
So, very nice
I’ll hold your hands, they’re just like ice
My mother will start to worry
Beautiful, what’s your hurry?
My father will be pacing the floor
Listen to that fireplace roar
So, really I’d better scurry
Beautiful, please don’t hurry
But maybe just a hald a drink more
I’ll put some records on while I pour
The neighbors might think
Baby, it’s bad out there
Say, what’s in this drink?
No cabs to be had out there
I wish I knew how
Your eyes are like starlight now
To break this spell
I’ll take your hat, your hair looks swell
I ought to say, “No, no, no sir”
Mind if I move in closer?
At least I’m gonna say that I tried
What’s the sense in hurting my pride?
I really can’t stay
Baby, don’t hold out
Baby, it’s cold outside
Ugh, you’re very pushy, you know?
I’d like to think of it as opportunistic
I simply must go
Baby, it’s cold outside
The answer is, “No”
But, baby, it’s cold outside
The welcome has been
How lucky that you dropped in
So nice and warm
Look out the window at that storm
My sister will be suspicious
Gosh, your lips look delicious
My brother will be there at the door
Waves upon a tropical shore
My maiden aunt’s mind is vicious
Gosh, your lips are delicious
But maybe just cigarette more
Never such a blizzard before
I’ve got to get home
Baby, you’ll freeze out there
Say, lend me your comb?
It’s up to your knees out there
You’ve really been grand
I thrill when I touch your hand
But don’t you see?
How can you do this thing to me?
There’s bound to be talk tomorrow
Think of my life-long sorrow
At least there will be plenty implied
If you got pneumonia and died
I really can’t stay
Get over that hold out
Baby, it’s cold
Baby, it’s cold outside
Okay, fine, just another drink
That took a lot of convincing
Controversy and Modern Interpretations:
- Changing Social Norms: Written in 1944, the song reflects the social norms of its time. However, modern audiences have criticized some lyrics as suggestive of date rape or a lack of consent, sparking debate and controversy.
- Alternate Readings: Others defend the song, arguing that the woman’s playful resistance is a form of flirtation, and her final decision to stay is an expression of her true desire.
- Updated Versions: Some artists have attempted to modernize the lyrics to address concerns about consent and provide a more balanced perspective.
Dean Martin’s Version:
- Iconic Rendition: Dean Martin’s recording of “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” is one of the most popular and well-known versions of the song, contributing to its enduring legacy.
- Smooth Delivery: Martin’s relaxed, charismatic vocals add a touch of playful charm to the song’s persuasive male character.
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Important Note:
It’s crucial to acknowledge the controversy surrounding “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.” Understanding the song’s history and being sensitive to modern concerns about consent and power dynamics creates a more nuanced listening experience.
