Piggy from 'Lord of the Flies' triggers reflection on literary narcissism

# Beyond the Mirror: The Heresy of Literary Narcissism

**The author's viewing of Netflix's *Lord of the Flies* sparked an unexpected identification with the character Piggy—a realization that prompted a deeper reflection on how we engage with art.**

> "People have been taught to view books as mirrors rather than doors or windows." - Fran Lebowitz

**Reflecting on a trend observed during years of teaching, the author identifies a cultural phenomenon termed 'literary narcissism':** students often only engage with literature that reflects their own identity.

This approach, while seemingly validating, raises a critical concern. **When art is judged solely by its relevance to one's personal experience, we risk limiting our appreciation for its universality.**

The author suggests that this narrow focus may actually impoverish our reading experience, closing off the very doors and windows that literature is meant to open.