In contemporary discussions, the term "narcissistic" has taken on a negative connotation, often used to describe individuals who prioritize their appearance or interests over others. Recently, this label has been unfairly directed at those, particularly liberals, who advocate for the welfare and improvement of others' lives instead of self-serving agendas. This shift in language suggests that caring for others is perceived as a form of self-absorption, while pursuing personal gain is viewed as a commendable act of altruism.

Gore Vidal highlights this irony by suggesting that the distortion of word meanings is a trivial consequence of our freedom to conform and indulge in consumerism. The juxtaposition he presents indicates a societal trend where the definitions of compassion and greed are inverted, leading to a misunderstanding of altruism and selfishness. This commentary reflects a critical view of how language evolves in response to social and political climates, ultimately affecting our perceptions of moral values and behaviors.