that's because he is SMOKIN hot
and I agreed (and loved) a lot of what you wrote. I definitely didn't notice it as much until people began complaining about it. But he didn't do as much flapping pre-Tosca, IMHO.
He wasn't as tall pre-Tosca either. Just saying!
His arms have never bothered me and I wish people would stop fixating on them and pay more attention to the rest of the package/program. He's always been more of a complete skater rather than a specialist at one segment - jumps, spins, etc. I think he's raised his levels in ALL aspects and expect he will continue to do the same. His footwork is riveting! And I'm sure anyone working with him on his jumps takes a whole different approach because of those extra inches. His goal this year is to be faster and make each element stronger. I think he's right on track with that - I sure have seen a difference in his skating from Worlds to now. I'm sure we'll continue to see him raise his PCS and GOEs. He's a very determined, dedicated athlete with his eyes focused on the same prize as every other male skater in the current elite ranks.
I'm sure they're all striving to do and be their very best. Which means we fans can not lose! And neither can any of them really, in the greater reality of life. They will all be stronger because of the striving.
Thanks be to the that we're along for the ride.