"The python had fallen in love with his own reflection" is an allusion to the Greek mythological figure of Narcissus. Narcissus was the son of the river god and by all accounts was an incredibly handsome young man. However, he only treated those who loved him with contempt.

One day, the nymph Echo spotted Narcissus and immediately fell in love with him. However, when she revealed herself and attempted to embrace Narcissus, the latter pushed her away and told her not to bother him. As punishment, Nemesis, the goddess of revenge, led him to a pool where he fell deeply in love with his own reflection. Upon realizing that the object of his love was simply a reflection of his own image, he was driven into suicidal despair.