1. Yes the dynamics of the rear suspension can be a bit mind bending, espesially when you are trying to get your head round the effects of changes to it.
I very slightly increased my ride hieght by winding the rose joints out a bit. I was very puzzled as to why that caused an increase in sag and a subsequent need to increase the pre-load....and then a couple of clicks of rebound too.
A swept path diagram would be beyond me, but I have considered a little balsawood model to study the dynamics...A simpler model could be made from stiff card and those paper fastener rivets with the two pointed legs that we used to use in primary school..
I doubt that your bike is a mongrel, but it might be posible that you have a different rocker?
I know there are different types, but whether they vary in geometry I couldn't say. There is one (Rare) design that is adjustable, from an 888 or 851 I believe.
If you have one of those you could be in the money..
2. How gay would I have to be?
3. 