One day in 1984, at the height of his fame, Michael Jackson made a visit to the White House.

President and Nancy Reagan may not have dug his music, but they understood the power Mr. Jackson commanded as a common pop-cultural touchstone for just about everyone else. Mr. Jackson had given the White House permission to use his smash hit "Beat It" in a campaign to halt teen drinking and driving, and the Reagans wanted to bestow on him a public-safety award and their personal thanks.

The now-iconic photograph of their visit reveals much about the towering personalities and even more about America. Mr. Jackson stands between the Reagans, wearing a tamer version of his famous sequined faux-military costume.

he waits silently as the president finishes making a point to Mrs. Reagan. He gazes up at the president, his eyes as wide as saucers. His awe is palpable.

The world's greatest performer has discovered himself on a stage even bigger and more profound than the ones he is used to occupying.