bonestructure,

I'm not sure we disagree. As mentioned above, my stand is that post-filters or hand-smudging edges and details isn't doing you any favors if you have spent vast amounts of time making detailed textures. But dirty textures isn't the whole battle. 
You mentioned lighting and level of detail, all very good points. I would add that atmosphere is also important. Every picture doesn't need to be wrapped in fog or haze but there does need to be some attention paid to air quality. Part of that sting is the feeling that all these pristine sharp edge objects are in a vacuum. And getting rid of that can employ any of those attributes mentioned above and more. The vignetting you did on Damnations is a simple technique but does a lot to warm up the picture and remove that sting I'm pointing to. DOF is another simple trick. 

BTW, a little OT,

I had the cataract surgery done on both eyes a few years ago. It worked really well for me, I've been very satisfied. I hope you are able to get it done as you can imagine it makes a world of difference. 

cheers