"What Kind of Man Am I?" is a song by Jimmy Nail that explores themes of heartbreak, self-doubt, and the struggle to understand one's own identity. The song is sung from the perspective of a man who has been left by his lover. He expresses his deep sadness and loneliness since their departure, noting that he has cried a river for them. However, he also acknowledges that he is wasting his time and emotions by constantly dwelling on the past. The protagonist finds himself spending his nights in a world of twilight, numbing his pain by watching late-night news and weather reports. He admits being the only one there for himself, indulging in sports TV and lukewarm beer. While he can handle the pain and rain in his life, he cannot bear to see his ex-lover with another man, expressing his disdain for the new person in their life. The song also delves into the protagonist's self-reflection, questioning his own worth and identity. He wonders what kind of man he is for giving up on love without even trying. He believed the connection they had was special, only to discover that she is now wearing another man's ring. Additionally, he questions the character of his ex-lover, considering her actions of proclaiming love to both him and the new man. These uncertainties leave him pondering and questioning himself until the day he dies. As the song progresses, the protagonist realizes that he is not the same man he used to be since the breakup. He blames his ex-lover for his diminished self, describing how her actions have tarnished his sense of self-worth. He acknowledges that he can't compete with the material possessions and luxuries the new man can provide, but he believes that there is a big heart inside him despite his external shortcomings. The protagonist ponders his own lack of action when confronted by the new man. He regrets not standing up for himself and letting the new man walk through the door unchallenged when he should have defended his honor. Throughout the song, the protagonist also questions his own masculinity and confronts his own insecurities. He wonders what kind of man he is for allowing himself to be treated poorly, realizing that he could have done more to protect his own dignity. Ultimately, the song portrays a man grappling with heartbreak, questioning his own worth, and trying to understand his own identity in the face of rejection. It delves into themes of self-reflection, regret, and the pain of lost love.
