
The actual world is continuing at least for the time being, but the weather is certainly drastically changing!
Yes, it appears that the World of Patrick Chan, according to ISU judges may be ending, or just taking a different turn. Plus Patrick like anyone else is growing and changing (and has fallen in love) and all things come to an end eventually, and things are always changing.
Two issues re the latest posted article:
1. Patrick is thinking of keeping these same programs for two seasons! I mean they are both wonderful programs for him to continue to explore in order to continue strengthening his artistic expression, but I would suggest his keeping only one of the programs and changing at least one of the programs for the Olympic season. Not that he's going to follow anyone's suggestions (except perhaps those of Kathy Johnson). Keeping an interesting and well-constructed program is not unusual for skaters, but keeping two programs for two seasons in a row (at least these days) does not tend to happen among top skaters. I wonder how many skaters are contemplating keeping one or both of the programs they have this season for the Olympic season?
2. Orser is quoted as saying that Patrick was so much better than everyone else. I don't think that's the case. I think the judges helped give that impression by the
ir over-scoring of PC, particularly at competitions where Patrick made a lot of mistakes. Dai should have won at least a couple of comps over Patrick last season (particularly Worlds 2012). Sure Patrick has superior SS among top competitors, but Orser is also quoted as saying that as a result of Patrick, other guys are now "learning how to skate": I think that statement is a bit OTT too. Sure many admire Chan's deep edges and flow over the ice, and every skater could benefit by doing some figures training, but intimating that Patrick's skills have led to others "learning how to skate" is an insult. The main influence Patrick has had on his competition IMO, is the recognition that quads are absolutely essential if you want to compete for the podium. Patrick mastered quads relatively quickly and he combined them with superior SS, but that doesn't mean that other skaters' SS are so much more subpar.
ETA:
Re Patrick's supposed "blase" attitude re his technical skills. He's finding his way and right now he seems more focused on improving his artistry. He's won so often that I think it may have grown a bit tiresome for him to constantly win. I think Patrick will enjoy for a change feeling like he's competing with the other guys and not so far up in the stratosphere from them where he can't ever lose. Perhaps in the end, it will give him a bit more hunger and motivation. As it is right now, he is obviously more focused on achieving praise instead of criticism re his musicality and artistic skills.