The portraits that presidents hang in the Oval Office are likely there to inspire the incumbent. But since the Oval Office and its ornaments are on display to the nation, the portraits do just as much to signal to the public the styles of leadership, the outlooks, the schools of thought that incumbents have embraced. The pictures send us messages, though nothing definite, and although they all hold more content than Rorschach tests, the thoughts prompted and the feelings evoked can vary dramatically from one viewer to another.

At the time

Anytime we evaluate a leader, we must take into account the situation that leader faced. Our evaluation would be unrealistic and maybe even irresponsible if it ignored the circumstances of the time.

Shifting

Greatness

Illegal immigration continues to create problems for the country. The security of the nation can be compromised when individuals crossing our borders are not confirmed to pose no threat. In most cases, immigrants want to live and work and thrive in the United States, even while a few may believe that moving here presents opportunities to make a fortune, or at least a living, in criminal activities. Yet many American citizens benefit from the labors of those who come here. Immigrants—even those who are illegal residents—can serve the nation in various ways.

Hype likely leads to the formation of crowds. In any case, reporting on the solar eclipse of April 8, 2024 focused much more on the social phenomenon than on the astronomical event. A lot of people gathered for and many cheered and applauded the show in the sky; quite a few people interviewed provided accounts of their awesome experiences.

So, what is your name?
........So, my name is So.
So, I'm not So--you're So.
........So, yeah, that's right, you got it.
So, you don't understand: I'm not So.
........So, you're not So, I know.
So, why do you keep calling me So?
........So, why are we going around and around?
Well, I just wanted to know your name.
........Well, my name is not Well.
Well, my name is not Well.
........Well, I'm not feeling well right now.
Well, you're getting on my nerves.