"Man of the House" is a song by Keith Urban, released in 2006 as part of his album "Love, Pain & The Whole Crazy Thing." The song revolves around a complex love triangle between the narrator, a woman, and her absent partner. In the lyrics, the narrator confesses that he is not proud of what he is about to do, referring to pursuing a romantic relationship with the woman while her partner is away. The picture of the woman's man facedown on the nightstand symbolizes his absence and unawareness of their affair. The narrator expresses his desire to be there for the woman whenever she needs his love. He mentions how her partner is too preoccupied with his money, leaving her feeling lonely in his absence. The narrator sees himself as her temporary lover, coming to her when she needs comfort until her blues are gone. He takes on the role of being the man of the house whenever her partner is not around. The song speaks to the emotional struggle of the narrator. He questions whether the statues at the woman's house are mocking her partner or him, suggesting the complexity and guilt he feels about the situation. The only part he finds difficult is having to leave and keep his love tucked away when her partner returns. In essence, "Man of the House" tells a story of forbidden love where the narrator becomes the stand-in partner and protector for the woman when her other man is absent.
