His Choice

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Call me an incorrigible curmudgeon/terrible human being, but I didn't share the primordial exuberance that possessed the writhing throng of Obama supporters on Tuesday. When CNN announced his victory, I clapped solemnly and did my best to keep giddy hipsters at bay. Perhaps it's because I'm reserved by nature, or perhaps it was because I went alone, but whatever the cause, the event failed to stir any profound sentiments, notwithstanding my being at the proverbial heart of it all.

But please don't interpret my want of outward enthusiasm as my rejecting the evening's significance. I recognize the categorically historical character of the election, and cannot in good conscience deny that the Obama campaign has reawakened--in some measure--a sense of unity, purpose, and certitude seldom seen in this individualistic, at times atomistic country. Indeed, the demographci copmosition that night--a quasi-surreal amalgam that included, yes, hipsters--speaks to the strength and breadth of the message of record. Yet, at the same time, realistic considerations of the challenges that lie ahead checked my jubilation, and as such I am glad that the president-elect acknowledged as much in his acceptance speech.

That said, it remains that Mr. Obama will inherit an innervated, robust Oval Office. How he makes use of those powers will be of great interest and import in the years to come as this republic lurches toward a moment of exception. Let us hope that he will use those prerogatives prudently.