Master Of The House
Les Miserables 10th Anniversary Cast Lyrics

"Master of the House" is a lively and humorous song performed by the innkeeper, Thénardier, in the musical Les Miserables. Thénardier is known for his corrupt practices and fraudulent behavior. The lyrics depict the inn as a den of debauchery and Thénardier as a manipulative and opportunistic character.

The first stanza sets the scene by introducing Thénardier's clientele, referring to them as "soaks" and "dissolutes." These individuals are no strangers to vice and enjoy crude humor. Thénardier proudly declares his inn as their gathering place, comparing his customers to homing pigeons returning to his establishment. The phrase "they crawl out on all fours" suggests the debased state in which they leave.

Thénardier then welcomes a Monsieur, presenting himself as the best innkeeper in town. He acknowledges that the rest of the characters at the inn are all crooks, cheating their guests and manipulating financial accounts. However, he claims to be an honest man with good intentions, content with his role as the master of the house. He exhibits charm, tells humorous stories, and likes to attract attention. Although he may occasionally do favors for friends, Thénardier emphasizes the need for reciprocation, stating that "nothing gets you nothing."

Continuing with his self-appointed titles, Thénardier declares himself as not only the master of the house but also the keeper of the zoo. This signifies his position as a caretaker, responsible for handling different types of guests and situations. He boasts about diluting the wine and stealing from the intoxicated visitors. Thénardier revels in being a landlord, stating that everyone loves him and respects him. However, he also warns others to be cautious around him, indicating that he will take advantage of any opportunity to exploit them.

The song then takes a more grotesque turn as Thénardier brags about the low-quality food provided at his inn. He mentions using questionable ingredients, such as horse kidneys and cat livers, in his sausages. This highlights the inn's unsanitary conditions and Thénardier's disregard for his customers' well-being. He jokes about overcharging for small services, such as looking in the mirror multiple times, and reveals his tactics for inflating prices.

The final stanza shifts the focus to Thénardier's personal life. He confesses that he used to dream of marrying a prince, but due to unfortunate circumstances, he ended up with nothing more than a worthless spouse. Thénardier mocks his own intellect, referring to himself as a "cunning little brain" but acknowledging his lack of substance. He criticizes his wife as well, expressing his dissatisfaction with their relationship and their shared existence.

The song ends with a chorus celebrating Thénardier as the master of the house. The lyrics sarcastically praise him as a comforter, philosopher, and lifelong companion, highlighting the hypocrisy and deceit in this description. Thénardier is exposed as a manipulative and drunken individual, with no true concern for others. The song presents a satirical portrayal of a landlord, exposing the dark and corrupt side of Thénardier's character.