Head of a Man has been described as 'like a reflection one might catch of oneself after a sleepless night, all healthy vigour drained, leaving only strain, tension, physical discomfort and utter despair.' In Lowry's own words 'I was simply letting off steam. I started a big self-portrait...I thought, 'What's the use of it? I don't want it and no one else will.' I turned it into a grotesque head. I'm glad I did it. I like it better than a self portrait.'