Christmas Songs

I have two favorite Christmas songs. The first is Fairytale of New York by the Pogues with Kirsty MacColl. I love this song. It's probably on my favorite song list of all time, but it's definitely my favorite Christmas song. I love it.

My second favorite is Baby It's Cold Outside. There are loads of versions of this song out there but it was originally written by Frank Loesser in 1944. Despite my love for this song I've always felt a little bit off about the fact that it basically seems to be a song about a date rape.

Never noticed before? Take a gander at the lyrics (these are from the Dean Martin version). For those who don't know the song it's a male/female duet and the man's lines are in brackets.

I really can't stay
(But baby, it's cold outside)
I've got to go away
(But baby, it's cold outside)

This evening has been
(Been hoping that you'd drop in)
So very nice
(I'll hold your hands, they're just like ice)

My mother will start worry
(Beautiful what's your hurry)
My father will be pacing the floor
(Listen to the fireplace roar)

So really I'd better scurry
(Beautiful please don't hurry)
But maybe just a half a drink more
(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 hurtin' my pride)

I really can't stay
(Oh baby don't hold out)
Ah, but it's cold out side
(Baby, it's cold out side)

I simply must go
(But baby, it's cold outside)
The answer is no
(But baby, it's cold outside)

Your welcome has been
(How lucky that you dropped in)
So nice and warm
(Look out the window at the snow)

My sister will be suspicious
(Gosh your lips look delicious)
My brother will be there at the door
(Waves upon the tropical shore)

My maiden aunts mind is vicious
(Gosh your lips are delicious)
But maybe just a cigarette more
(Never such a blizzard before)

I've gotta get home
(But baby, you'd freeze out there)
Say lend me a coat
(It's up to your knees out there)

You've really been grand
(I thrill when you touch my hand)
But don't you see?
(How can you do this thing to me?)

There's bound to be talk tomorrow
(Think of my lifelong sorrow)
At least there will be plenty implied
(If you got pneumonia and died)

I really can't stay
(Get over that old out)
Baby, it's cold
Baby, it's cold outside