So, depending on how he chooses to govern over the next four years, Mr. Obama may yet have a chance to reset the stale debate in Washington, or at least to hasten the transition from one moment to the next. His re-election opens the door further for the post-’60s generation, even if it does not quite clear the room.

The Oak was trying, with small success, not to commit what George Orwell would have called a facecrime.

The discussion will be continued on the other side of the commercial break.

The ship was addressed to a merchant in Baltimore.