Random NIN Questions

[m15a]

I've always sort of struggled with the crowd in RWIB. I imagine, at heart, it probably is a pretty superficial commentary on fame and his personal situation. But, I really don't like that interpretation because I think it is way too lame for such a beautiful song. I think another interpretation that fits with the song is the realization that we're all performing roles, and the theme of the song (and, indeed, the triptych there at the end) is coming in to accept that we're playing a role.

the crowd could just represent a crowd, too, as in a large group of people (others). not necessarily one that's cheering trent on. the way i interpret the song, i think the word "fame" is a little too narrow . . i think it's about something that regular (non-famous) people experience, too.

the crowd noise also makes a sort of straightforward connection between RWIB and "getting smaller" and "all the love in the world", which both mention "crowds" . . although trent is a "rockstar" and the songs seem to be personal, i don't think those songs are about being famous either, but more about being one person in a world with many.

[Trains]

I've been on a mega Year Zero geekfest for the last few weeks (actually, make that the last six years), been reading over some of the old sites and interviews and trying to recapture the thrill of the experience. Can anyone recommend any books, series or comics that are in a similar vein to that record?