Actually, I think it's possible you may have misread this gal's post a wee bit -- there wasn't surprise -- I was actually pointing out a sometimes ironic connection between artists being an agent of change (usually through events such as the wonderful one you outlined) and being resistant to it. It's the same point. And you got it :D carpe diem, cui bono?

thou and I, my friend, can, in the most flunkey world, make, each of us, one non-flunkey, one hero, if we like: that will be two heroes to begin with. (Carlyle)