An article I read today about Narcissus: "Narcissists are said to be in love with themselves. But this is a fallacy. Narcissus is not in love with himself. He is in love with his reflection." But what does this say of narcissists? Does it not render each one of us a narcissist? This begs the question, what constitutes our "reflection"? When we look in a mirror, we do not gaze subjectively; rather, we see ourselves from the perspective of all those within the same social construct. The "me" we see in the mirror is from the vantage point of a social animal, one who needs others to "exist". Many characterize this divided self as a neurosis, but I see it as a prerequisite of humanity. It is necessary to break down the individual self in order to exist harmoniously with others. This takes place in childhood, and its inevitable result is seldom questioned by social actors. If I am hollowed out, made to fit a mould, as a very young child, I cannot even remember my short-lived freedom.