Object
White House Northwest Lobby Holiday Decorations (lights, evergreens, flags)
A single, seasonally installed cluster of holiday set dressing lining the White House Northwest Lobby: warm-white string lights woven through garlands and draped across railings and a small institutional tree, medium potted evergreens wired with ribbon, and small handheld American flags on short polished staffs. Materials read as faux greenery, brass flag staffs, and clear-bulb cords; pieces range from tabletop size to waist-high planters. The ensemble is temporary and slightly tangled, creating a soft, festive glow and light jingling as staffers mill, adjust, and move around the decorations.
2 appearances
Purpose
To decorate and provide warm, festive illumination for the White House Northwest Lobby during holiday celebrations and staff pageant preparations.
Significance
The lights establish a petty, convivial atmosphere that heightens the contrast when the police call arrives. Their cheerful glow frames a tonal pivot—holiday frivolity collapses into an urgent summons—thereby isolating Toby and signaling the start of his moral arc regarding a forgotten veteran.
Appearances in the Narrative
When this object appears and how it's used