It is Very Undesirable to Speak a Great Deal about Oneself
It is very undesirable to speak a great deal about oneself. But young people, when they have lively natures, and their spirits are raised above the common level, are the less able to keep themselves free from this vice. And they speak of their own affairs with extreme candour, taking it for granted that the listener is only a little less interested than they are themselves. And they are pardoned for doing this, not so much in consideration of their inexperience, as because of the clear need they have of help, counsel, and a verbal outlet for the passions which disturb them at their age. And also it seems to be generally recognised that young people have a kind of right to want the world to be occupied with their thoughts.
Giacomo Leopardi, in 'Thoughts'