Gmail redesign

First, Why didn't you tell me gmail? Why did I have to learn from Lifehacker that new "features" were coming to gmail? I know you've been in Beta for years (which, also, get over yourself gmail), but still.
I'm generally fine with the buttons on top, but why so square? Why so shiny? Why the new font? Why are the same features now on the top as in the sidebar? I know I can customize this, but if you were going to change the way things work up top, why not add new features instead of merely replicating existing ones that were already on the same page? Why is this necessary?

Perhaps I just hate change. Ask me in a few weeks, maybe I won't even remember what is different.

This does remind me that some people use their gmail differently from how I use my gmail. Some of you, I hear, don't archive anything. Weirdos. I bet this is more useful for you.