How ‘Baby, It’s Cold Outside’ Went From Parlor Act to Problematic

 

"Judith E. Smith, a professor of American studies at the University of Massachusetts Boston, said the song was written as World War II was upending societal norms; more women were entering the work force, and military deployments were interrupting traditional courtships. Women were starting to exercise more sexual freedom.

“It’s alluding to both men’s and women’s sexual desire in a playful way, but it seems to me there isn’t really any issue about consent,” she said.

But in the #MeToo era, some say it makes sense to look at those old lyrics with fresh eyes.

“I think a lot of men and women were blind to the power men had over women,” said Ms. Liza, the singer-songwriter. “And I think as we move forward, things totally transform, and we can put names to those feelings.”"

read the analysis by Jacey Fortin

How ‘Baby, It’s Cold Outside’ Went From Parlor Act to Problematic - The New York Times