http://www.logosjournal.com/carducci.htm
Just my 3 canadian cents. I believe the train entering railway station is good metaphor- it takes some time for the last coach to enter the station while the front coaches are already there.
I would guess that the process started ideologically around 1955 (i.e. start of 'third wave") become culturally felt in 1967-69 (starting with Sgt. Pepper, Moon landing, ending with Altamont) and became fully operational in 1971 (end of Breton Woods gold standard)
it took some time before we got accustomed to it. (ATMs etc.)
Long ago, it must be, I have a photograph
Preserve your memories, they're all that's left you...