In Camelot, the 1960 musical that became the slogan for the Kennedy Administration, Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe gave Lancelot, played by Robert Goulet, the memorable title song.

In the ensuing half-century, there have been 11 revivals of the production though it appears some of the original message has been lost.  Who remembers that Lancelot was actually skilled though he displayed some… ahhhh…. “political tendencies” in his later amorous dealings with Guinevere and her husband Arthur?

We have forgotten “might for right” and

“And here am I to give my all.

I know in my soul what you expect of me,

And all that and more I shall be.”

remembering only

“C’est Moi, C’est Moi, ‘tis I”

This “it’s-all-about-me” attitude has ended REI’s unlimited exchange policy because of “customer abuses.” Kirsten Grind’s article includes examples of breath taking self-absorption.  REI is a co-op.

Self-absorption is not limited to the outdoorsy. “Say hi to Lucy,” star of Why Generation Y Yuppies Are Unhappy. Lucy is a G.Y.P.S.Y. or Gen Y (born late 70’s to 90’s) Protagonist and Special Yuppy. Lucy is very pleased to be Lucy but she is delusional in her expectations.

And then there is the wedding industrial complex. Can there be a clearer triumph for “it’s-all-about-me” narcissism? Even the bridesmaids bitch about having to look like each other rather than showcasing their very own personal specialness.

Washington’s election industry seems based on the simple ideas that

1. I think you are more special than my opponent does
2. My opponent will reduce your specialness
3. I will fight for your specialness (but only if you pay me to)

Note to our foes: forget terrorism and promote narcissism. That should get the job done.