: Many viewers consider the run of 3x19, 3x22, and 4x1 to be the series' peak character writing.
: While traveling with Matt, Elena calls Damon to tell him she has chosen to go back to Stefan. She famously tells Damon, "Maybe if I'd met you first...". The_vampire_diares_3x22
: To save Matt from drowning after Rebekah runs their truck off Wickery Bridge, Elena insists Stefan save Matt first, leading to her own death. : Many viewers consider the run of 3x19,
🎯 : The phone call between Damon and Elena on the road is the emotional core of the episode, setting the stage for their Season 4 dynamic. : To save Matt from drowning after Rebekah
: Fans often note that water represents both death and rebirth for Elena, as she dies where her parents did but is "reborn" as a vampire.
: Because Dr. Fell had treated Elena’s earlier brain hemorrhage with vampire blood, Elena wakes up in the morgue as a vampire.
: The episode heavily parallels Elena's breakup with Matt (pre-pilot) to her current situation with the brothers, framing Stefan as her "now" and Damon as her "always".