President Bartlet's Handheld Book (S01E12: 'He Shall, From Time To Time...')

A single handheld book referenced only as 'book' while President Bartlet holds it during a quiet, intimate exchange; text gives no cover, binding, or dimensions. The volume functions as a tactile anchor in Bartlet's hand—he clasps it, tucks his fist near it, and uses its presence to steady tone and gesture during the moral test.

2 appearances

Purpose

Serves as a handheld prop that Bartlet carries while speaking, providing a physical focus to steady gestures and modulate delivery.

Significance

Acts as a private, symbolic prop that humanizes a moment of presidential stewardship and trust; the book's presence anchors Bartlet's intimacy and lends gravity to his informal hand-off test.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

2 moments

S1E12 · He Shall, From Time To Time...

A Quiet Test of Trust (Leo Overhears)

The handheld book in Bartlet's hand acts as a tactile anchor while he delivers the moral lesson; he holds it and presses his fist near his heart, using the object to steady his gesture and underscore the personal nature of his counsel.

Before: In Bartlet's hand as he speaks, used as a physical brace for his gesture.

After: Remains in Bartlet's hand as he departs the Oval, continuing to function as a private anchor to his conviction.

View full event

S1E12 · He Shall, From Time To Time...

Practical Succession — Bartlet's Quiet Hand-off

Bartlet holds a small handheld book during the exchange, using it as a physical anchor when he places his fist near his heart — a tactile prop that underlines sincerity and steadies his gesture as he confers weighty instruction.

Before: In the President's hand, accessible as a grounding object during conversation.

After: Remains in the President's hand as he places a fist near his chest and departs with the book still held.

View full event