This theory about the song 'Baby it's Cold Outside' will make you see it in a whole new light

If you know the song "Baby It's Cold Outside" you'll know it's a long-time Christmas anthem with creepy undertones.

The song centres on a woman making excuses to leave as a man tries to persuade her to stay.

Particularly creepy lines are:

(Woman:) I ought to say, no, no, no sir

(Man:) Mind if I move in closer?

(Woman:) At least I'm gonna say that I tried

(Man:) What's the sense in hurtin' my pride?

and

(Woman:) So really I'd better scurry

(Man:) Beautiful please don't hurry

(Woman:) But maybe just a half a drink more

(Man:) Put some records on while I pour

(Woman:) The neighbours might think

(Man:) Baby, it's bad out there

(Woman:) Say what's in this drink?

(Man:) No cabs to be had out there

The drinks line particularly has been the subject of distaste in recent years.

Funny or Die even did a video on it:

Many comedians and public figures have commented on whether it's an appropriate song to play this year, given the sexual harassment allegations that have dominated the media, entertainment and politics spheres:

Meanwhile, an argument has been made that the song was, at the time, liberating.

Someone on Tumblr launched a defence of the lyric in 2016.

It's recently been re-shared (because 'tis that time of year for this argument):

The argument is essentially that the woman blames the drink ("Now, what's in this drink?") because actually she's having a good time and wants to stay. She also wishes to defy the social norms of the time and be sexually liberated with the man.

The essay suggests that the woman is expected to be reluctant, so is putting on airs and would consent in a non-public forum.

It takes some of the edge off some of the darker lines.

However, for many, there is no doubt that the man in the song presses the woman while she makes excuses.

At best, you can say with a modern ear the song lyrics are uncomfortable and that her consent is not present.

Either way, we expect we'll be having this debate again next year.

Merry Christmas, everyone!

More: Notoriously creepy Christmas song ‘Baby It’s Cold Outside’ has been rewritten to stress the importance of consent