I really don't understand why a lot of people seem to think that the implication of the alien 'raping' Lambert would involve the actions of a human rape. This, of course, would not make much sense. Whereas I always thought that the alien used the tip of its tail to not only rip her clothes apart but also to actually 'rape' her (this would be when you hear Lambert panting) and then at the moment of the alien's metaphorical orgasm; it sends it's entire tail upwards at a great speed, essentially gutting her (and this is when you hear that final, ear-piercing scream).
As for those who can't fathom why the alien would be inclined to behave this way; why on Earth (or LV-246, if you like) do you assume that the alien would not inherit some of its human host's psychology (as well as physicality). I imagine that the alien itself does not necessarily understand the sexual desires it feels when faced with its first female victim, much like a teenager discovering masturbation for the first time.
As for comments that the alien would not have enough time to perform this rape; why does a rape have to last longer then 10 seconds or so?! This is an alien creature, it is not pure human and therefore our pre-conceived notions of rape on Earth do not dictate how an alien would approach such a terrible act (especially when it lacks the standard necessary 'equipment' for such a task).
In my mind the whole scene is a horrific depiction of the bastardisation of human lust, coupled with an asexual species
These are all my own personal interpretations of course but some people in this thread seem to have never even considered such themes... food for thought
