People expected way to much from the Pen and then when it didn't deliver everything they wanted, it was a much more significant blow and the kick back has been way greater than it should have been. Those that have accepted it for what it is, are doing well with the camera. I believe that the Pen was fully intended as a tribute to the original Pen, and Maitani, and not as the final word in m4/3s from Olympus.
Olympus is much more forward looking than many give it credit and they have ridden almost a continuous wave of negative comment since they first put out the E1. That hasn't stopped them from going on and producing outstanding cameras and lenses. The compromises that were made with the original two lenses will be forgotten when they start to bring out the more traditional ones, and they will come.
All credit to Panasonic for bringing out great m4/3s cameras and staying with 4/3s, but it's easier to do so when there's only one line of cameras/lenses to consider; Olympus still has to maintain the 4/3s line as well, because it caters to a completely different user.
Cheers
Ray