Thoughtful article with some accurate information. You mention trauma very briefly. I think it needs to be the focal point of understanding NPD because the greatest affect of trauma in people with NPD is cognitive and perceptual distortions. You write: “But, what would a truthful perspective look like from a narcissist themselves….” All people have some degree of self-deception, cognitive biased, etc. but pople with NPD suffer much greater cognitive/perceptions distortions, eg, exaggerated negativity bias, paranoia, distrust, etc. precisely bc of their (likely, childhood) trauma. These distortions prevent people with NPD (or any Cluster B personality disorder) from providing a full, accurate account of what it’s like to have NPD.