What struck me was his composure, his utter lack of gloat or exultation. In his refusal to revel in his victory, he seemed to ask us, “Why did you ever doubt that I would win?” His solemnity suggested what for politicians seems unimaginable: a lack of ego. It was as if he’d absorbed his victory and was already focused on shaping his agenda. No time to waste, even in celebration.

And of course, his speech was stunning. He sang it; you could hear the gospel in it. After George Bush, the music and grace in it seemed unimaginably sweet.

Almost as stunning was the comfort he displayed after the speech in his family’s presence, his lack of pretense as he hugged his wife and daughters. The four of them looked genuinely affectionate towards one another, with none of the clenched smiles and forced poses that so many other political families display.

All of this raises this question: is it possible that we have elected to the Presidency that rarest of specimens, a person who is emotionally whole?