In Greek mythology, Narcissus was the young, handsome son of the god of the Cefiso River and the nymph Liriope. At birth, his parents consulted the soothsayer Tiresias who prophesized that Narcissus would grow to an old age "as long as he never knows himself." Narcissus was much desired, but he refused everyone. Among those who desired him was the nymph Echo, who had upset Hera and was condemned to repeat the words she heard. Therefore, she could not speak to Narcissus.