i like all the contributors ideas, even your own
TonySG (about anxiety).
it may be that all of the characters are representing aspects of yourself.
the two thugs would be 'combative elements' which don't take orders,
and who won't back down. the car is your vehicle in life, your physical form...
which of you is in charge of things? the conscious, choice making aspect of
you has escaped the conflict, by retreating into the "lofty ideals" that you
hold sacred [the cathedral]. i figure that you're wanting to resolve things
peacefully, between the conflicting ideas that compose you, but you're
uncertain of how. the old woman is a 'maternal influence' which exists
within you, maintaining the cathedral perhaps. listening to her voice may
be the the key to resolving your 'inner conflict' and restoring peace.
your dream seems to have ended without resolution, but i have the
sense that you can straighten things out without undue difficulty.
