"A man in the house is worth two in the street"

Mae West's quip, “A man in the house is worth two in the street,” combines wit with cultural commentary. It evokes a time when traditional gender roles placed emphasis on men as essential partners or providers within the home, contrasting their perceived value within a domestic context against their presence outside of it. The phrase “in the house” implies reliability, availability, and intimacy; it denotes the appeal of a partner who is present and committed, rather than one who is distant, unattached, or transient.

Through her characteristic humor, West underscores the benefits of stable companionship over fleeting encounters or mere possibilities. The man in the house represents security and the fulfillment of both emotional and practical needs. He is an active participant in daily life, involved in shared experiences, and contributes to the foundation of a meaningful relationship. The two men in the street, by contrast, symbolize potential opportunities, thrills, or distractions that exist outside, yet whose presence is ultimately less consequential. They lack the depth of connection and reliability that someone at home brings.

Moreover, the comparison to the proverb “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” suggests the wisdom in appreciating and committing to what is already present and available, rather than constantly seeking or fantasizing about what might be possible elsewhere. West’s statement teases the notion of opportunity cost in romance and companionship, and slyly nods to the practical side of desire; it's more prudent, or perhaps more satisfying, to invest in a tangible, consistent relationship than to chase after fleeting prospects that may never materialize.

Mae West’s persona was all about embracing pleasure and asserting agency, especially as a woman. Yet, her words also reflect an appreciation for the value of real, shared connection amid a world full of tempting but unreliable alternatives. The laughter she invites disarms, but behind it lies enduring insight into human relationships and priorities.