The Stranger and Her Friend details the story of Celestia's origin shortly after the unification of the three pony tribes. Mentioned several times is the contemporary pony-religion and its respective deities.

Areas of focus:
1) Religion. Religion is a HUGE theme in Friend, from subtle shout outs to a full on polytheistic church described in detail. How do conflict and religion interact? Does the acceptance or rejection of religion play a major factor? If so, what are a few examples and what do they say about each character or the story as a whole? Note, further, that the main pony-religion seems almost engineered for Celestia, is this a coincidence, why or why not?

2) Power. Related to the religious themes by virtue of influence, how do the characters in power deal with being in power? Compare and contrast some of the major players, and consider each of them in light of the seemingly omnipotent Discord. Further, explore the parallels between Lucky and Celestia as each rises to fit new roles neither wanted nor were prepared for.

3) The Elements of Harmony.

4) Twilight. Think about Twilight's role in the story as it related to Celestia's telling. Consider the numerous potential Checkov's Guns or potential red-herrings, especially when religion is being explained to Celestia.

That's all I have thus far, go nuts!