The Man In Me
Al Kooper Lyrics
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La la la la la ...
The man in me will do nearly any task
As for compensation, there's a little he will ask
Take a woman like you to get through to the man in me.
I think to myself I might not take it anymore
Take a woman like your kind to find the man in me.
But, oh, what a wonderful feeling
Just to know that you are near
It sets my heart a-reeling
From my toes up to my ears.
The man in me will hide sometimes to keep from being seen
But that's just because he doesn't want to turn into some machine
Take a woman like you to get through to the man in me.
La la la la la ...
The Man in Me by Al Kooper is a song that reflects on the complex yet simple nature of the male psyche. The lyrics speak to the versatility of men, who are willing to take on any task, as long as there is reasonable compensation. However, men also have a complex vulnerability, and can feel overwhelmed by life's challenges. In such situations, it often takes a woman who understands him to bring out the best in him. Kooper uses metaphors to describe the range of emotions that men often experience, such as storm clouds raging all around one's door, and the man within hiding, so as not to become a machine.
The song's chorus echoes the relief that comes with finding a woman who understands and accepts one's complexity. The emotion in Kooper's voice is palpable as he sings of the feeling of having someone near who makes his heart sing with joy. The lyrics suggest that it is through listening to, and loving the man within that we find the best version of ourselves.
Line by Line Meaning
The man in me will do nearly any task
I am capable of undertaking almost everything, no matter how daunting it may seem to the beholder.
As for compensation, there's a little he will ask
I shall not make any great demands in return for my efforts. A small token of appreciation would suffice.
Take a woman like you to get through to the man in me.
Only someone with the qualities of a fine lady, like you could inspire and motivate me to give my best efforts.
Storm clouds are raging all around my door
My troubles and difficulties are mounting and becoming harder to ignore.
I think to myself I might not take it anymore
I’m beginning to feel overwhelmed and I fear I may not be able to withstand any more pressure.
Take a woman like your kind to find the man in me.
Your noble character and caring nature have revealed, how I can still find hope and motivation to carry on.
But, oh, what a wonderful feeling
I cannot help but feel an indescribable sense of joy.
Just to know that you are near
You being in my vicinity gives me a sense of comfort and security.
It sets my heart a-reeling
The feelings of love and admiration that your presence ignites, makes my heart fill with uncontrollable emotions.
From my toes up to my ears.
I feel the emotions of love and admiration from all corners of my body.
The man in me will hide sometimes to keep from being seen
On occasion, I may retreat and conceal my true self in order to avoid becoming a mere machine or losing my authenticity.
But that's just because he doesn't want to turn into some machine
I choose to hide occasionally so that I can maintain my humanity and avoid becoming a heartless, mindless automaton.
Take a woman like you to get through to the man in me.
It takes someone with your kind of charm, grace, and compassion to draw out the essence of who I truly am and make me feel alive again.
La la la la la ...
A refrain indicating that the song has ended and is starting over again.
Writer(s): Ned Washington, Lester Lee
Contributed by Landon M. Suggest a correction in the comments below.