Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: singer-songwriter
Song Meaning of “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” by Lyle Lovett
This song offers a very honest look at the difficulty of being in a relationship. The narrator is trying to be the rational one and encourage his partner to stay the night. He knows it’s cold outside, but he doesn’t want her to leave. This struggle is symbolized in the lyrics “What’s in this drink.” He knows he shouldn’t ask her to stay, but he can’t help himself.
It’s a tender moment as he fights against his own desires, voicing his hesitation to keep her for himself. He’s wondering if staying would be too much for her, as they know the consequences of their actions. He may be lacking the courage to speak his feelings openly, so he reaches out in a passive-aggressive way.
The chorus of the song is a back and forth between the two, suggesting that despite the difficulties they face, they will ultimately choose to stay together and embrace the warmth of the relationship.
Ultimately, the song highlights the significance of every decision in a relationship. The narrator knows that if his partner stays, their relationship enters a new stage. He’s faced with the crucial question of choosing what’s right, but his love for her overrides it all.