"The Loved One" by Jimmy Barnes is a song about a man who is deeply in love with a woman and finds himself unable to move on without her. The song begins by describing the woman's appearance - she is walking towards the narrator in a red dress with long black hair. The way she walks and talks indicates her desire and attraction towards him. The narrator expresses his intense love for this woman, stating that he cannot live without her and wants her back in his life. He feels helpless and like an "evil child" because of his strong emotions for her. Despite their separation, the narrator believes that if she wants to stay with him, it would be alright. However, she eventually walks away, leaving him longing for her. Throughout the song, the narrator repeats his declaration of love and need for her, emphasizing that he is unable to carry on without her by his side. Overall, "The Loved One" is a heartfelt plea for the return of a loved one, conveying the pain and desperation of the narrator's longing for their presence.