Just a short post. I've had more than my say on the 100 days. I'm an admirer of Anthony Barger's book, which does an excellent job illuminating the longer term consequences of New Deal legislation. I try to do a little of everything in my book (which actuallly covers the period from June of 1932, when FDR was nominated until June of 1933, when the 100 days ended) but I put particular emphasis on the psycholigical dimensions of FDR's achievement in this period and I hope we can introduce that into the discussion.

FDR made tough decisions like cutting pay for himself and Congress (imitated by Obama, who froze pay), but he also looked for a bit of sugar to make the medicine go down more smoothly, like legalizing beer. He held two tightly controlled press conferences a week to spread his magic through the print press, and much less regular fireside chats, which were magical. Obama won't hold as many press conferences (though he recently held five in five days), but his speeches may end up aging at least as well as FDR's. My point is that communication skills are critical.

And finally, keep your eye on congressional relations. One of my favorite stories from the book is about FDR calling the secretary to a powerful senator, Jimmy Byrnes. He told the secretary he didn't want to talk to Byrnes but just to "know what he's up to." The president told the secretary and 10,000 others to be his eyes and ears. Obama needs that too, a big reason for him to keep his BlackBerry.

On Monday John Podesta interviewed me about my book at the Willard Hotel. His favorite line about the New Deal is the description of it as a "laughing revolution.". We will see if the man Podesta designed the transition for can provide the same uplifting spirit.

Note: Jonathan Alter is the author of The Defining Moment: FDR's Hundred Days and the Triumph of Hope.