Theory and Analysis:Train Motif Symbolism
Notes:
T&A page about the Train Motif and just what it symbolizes (personal hell)
seems not just to be limited to Shinji (16, 20, 26'), but other characters (ARM in 26') and Asuka in 22', as well. (Don't forget Toji in ep. 19.)
Also, possible connection between Asuka's "personal hell" in reality and what she went through during mindrape (e.g.: Speculation perhaps "hell" of Shinji not being hers, or the fact she's alone and hates it deep down despite her denial...) In the real world scene, Asuka sees Shinji standing and talking with Rei at a train station (unable to call Kaji since he's dead; looks angry/jealous, her anger seems to focus solely on Shinji (how dare you beat me you scum; I'm the best not you); Rei's more or less just a girl in the background... In mindrape scene, she's alone at a train station, sees Kaji and tries to get to him for help, but evil versions(??) of Asuka stop her; goes into blah blah blah Shinji sucks bigtime sequence. During the sequence when Asuka thinks about Shinji, we hear that Train Crossing sound-effect often heard during Shinji's Personal Hell Introspection.
26' Train stuff: Asuka calls Shinji on what he did, says wants to be his, Shinji wants kindness from her, weird sequence of Asuka/Rei/Misato saying they're kind to him and other stuff I don't quite get, Shinji freaks out (Instrumentality starting to get to him??) as the three women stare at him silently; cue strangle scene no.1. ALSO IN 26': During the KST "Breakup" lines Psychological sequence, we hear that Train Cross sound-effect yet again.
also get into if the "2nd person" of himself Shinji sees throughout is actually Shinji or possibly an Angel and or Shogoki.
various series episodes: Rei 3 asking Shinji why he does what he does and/or was it that he wants (people to praise him/not to leave him alone/to be kind to him; feels Eva is his only way of getting such praise)
Rei's Ghostly Appearances and Quantum Mechanics since it's connected with Rei 3 and trains and all...
