Enjoyed the article and was surprised by how exhaustive the brag type list is. It really activated my restrospection. The pictures I could have done without, though.
The idea behind the pictures isn't so much about them being useful (they mostly aren't — I'm well aware of that). Instead it's about breaking up the wall of text and adding visual variety so as to prevent reader fatigue.
It's a tip I picked up from reading the Star Slate Codex piece on writing: http://slatestarcodex.com/2016/02/20/writing-advice/
Also: HN readers != average internet readers
Congrats with your fascinating article, really enjoyed it!