Cecil, W5DXP wrote:
"Anything on paper is just a freeze-frame snapshot."

Yes, as a-c alternates, standing-waves stand.

Standing-wave ratio=SWR

SWR = Emax/Emin, or SWR = Imax / Imin. The ratio is the same for volts
or amps.

SWR expresses the magnitude of the reflection coefficient.

Reflection coefficient= Rho
Rho=(ZL/Zo)-1 / (ZL/Zo)+1

There are no volts or amps in the expression for Rho, so it is
independent of signal strength. Though we may find SWR with a voltage
probe, SWR is only indicating severity of mismatch which is a function
of impedance ratios and is independent volts, amps, and power.

So long as you are consistent in using rms, peak, or even instantaneous
values at the same point in the cycle of voltage or current, SWR values
can be good. A good SWR meter reading does not depend on signal
strength.

Best regards, Richard Harrison, KB5WZI