Dick Moves on Dames

In the early 20th century, the concept of dating was brand new. People of the opposite sex didn't go out together unchaperoned until young women began leaving home to work in the cities. The newfound financial freedom and independence described in early American novels like Dreiser's Sister Carrie allowed women to experience the world without family intervention — often at their peril. With birth control scarce, abortions illegal, and "promiscuous" women being imprisoned, dating could turn into a devastating event at any moment. That didn't stop a wave of sexual activity from happening after World War II, of course. 

Music in the Key of "D" (for Dick) (in case that wasn't obvious)

The novelty of date rape itself in that era means that we don't find many songs about it. The Frank Loesser song "Baby, It's Cold Outside" was controversial when it first appeared in 1944 because it was considered risqué. It documents a negotiation that was common at the time, but that wasn't revealed until it appeared in popular music. However now in the age of roofies, kidnapping, and date rape, it takes on a far more sinister cast.

We discuss this song in more detail in the articles. Leave a comment and let us know what you think!