{working title: Symbolism}
Some viewers are mystified by simple elements in the show such as the smoke rising out of Lain's fingers, or the splotches of red under the constantly humming telephone poles. A lot of conceited ego-stroking has been done by claiming depth to the show by people who do not understand it, or say so to be seen as intellectual. This is not such an analysis. This is done by a fan who views SEL as a work of art, genuinely, so you have been warned by this disclaimer.
Serial Experiments Lain is a unique anime. There may have never been anything like it. The story is simple enough, despite the general view that it's incredibly obfuscated, and only a few simple points need to be addressed to understand the plot. The plot, however, is only one among several important aspects of Lain. That is why people continue to find value in it even if the linear plot goes over their heads. There is something mysteriously alluring, if nothing else, that lets the viewer know that this show is special. But what is so special about it, what speaks to the human soul? At least in a peripheral manner, this analysis endeavors to explain cultural and psychological relationships between the human psyche and this work of art.
This analysis will cover all episodes, what is presented in these episodes, a discussion over prominent and obscure symbolism in the animator's choice of presentation, a discussion over the nature of the show for both Eastern and Western audiences, the plot, the characters (especially Lain) and anything else that people have wanted to read about but have been denied by the obscurity of interested, willing fans. I'm also going to link to several previous websites that have information about the show. One thing, however: please watch the episodes in order before reading this, and come to your own conclusions beforehand.
{unfinished}
