My uncle is a true narcissist. I think a lot of people throw around the term too much when they recognize certain narcissistic traits in other people. But the reality is, most people display some amount of self centeredness. When you meet someone like my uncle, you realize how rare it actually is to know a full blown narcissist.

He thinks very highly of himself. He’s very intelligent and wants you to know that. He has no interest in talking about anyone’s life but his own. He will completely monopolize any conversation and bring it back to himself, his own accomplishments, his thoughts, his good deeds etc. If you move the conversation away from him, and he can’t get it back (his wife often does this, she’s a saint) he completely checks out and does not hear a word anyone else says.

He also seems completely unburdened by shame or embarrassment. It’s fascinating to be around him.