[timeforcomputer]

Yes I was surprised at that sentence because I think (considering theoretical properties of code size are the same as instruction count) that the main initial reason compiler optimization is non-trivial is because these kinds of global optimizations are possible, like your loop example.

Also I am really enjoying your article, still reading it with wikipedia open on the side haha.

[baziotis]

Nice to hear that! I hope nothing else is questionable. And thanks for pointing it out! I guess the moral of the story is don't do "proofs" in your head after 3am.