it wasn't clear from my post at all, but:
i've studied the movement(s) (it fascinates me), his public self, and personal self (through his writings and those of his friends). I'm no expert, and i certainly did not know him, but don't think i'm judging based on a single digital reproduction of his work.
Not that you're going to present this argument, but in case someone does, it seems every time i talk about dali's self-absorption, someone says "that's not true, he hated himself!" and "that's not true, his artwork doesn't necessarily represent his own personality!" This is something that has never made sense to me, as being self absorbed is not the same as liking oneself, it's about being constantly obsessed with oneself and how one is seen. if anything, both of those traits are prime examples of the self-absorbed. As far as pretentious, i think he, like most of his colleagues, would embrace the fact.
really helm, that you might not share an opinion does not mean it is unfounded.