Within the eternal chasings of the Man in Black by the Gunslinger Roland Deschain, there are many warning signs along the way to keep Roland's Ka-Tet following the beam. Signs that keep emphasizing the importance of our world, not Mid World, not Gilead, nor Thunderclap.
Take 19 (nineteen) for example. It is used in numerous ways throughout many of the Dark Tower books written by Stephen King and refers to the keystone world. The keystone world is the one we live in and is one of only two remaining realities able to defend the Beam from being broken down by the Man in Black and his orgy of evil evildoers. 19 is akin to a breadcrumb trail. Roland and his posse see nineteen everywhere, constantly getting reminded of how to get there, what they need to do there, and the reality of it all.
What's interesting is that the Keystone World is the one in the story in which Stephen King actually writes the stories of the Dark Tower. This function in his storytelling is remarkable and crushes the Fourth Wall. It creates a level of realism to the fantasy, allowing the reader to stay grounded and securely along the path of the beam. It can also create some confusion to those who have forgotten the face of their father.
So when you go about your daily life here in the Keystone World, keep in mind that it works both ways - Nineteen to the Gunslinger is a reminder of other worlds than his, just like 19 is a reminder to us that there are other worlds than these. Go then... and when you see it, see 19 that is, make sure that the next door you walk through is indeed the one you want to.
Long days and pleasant nights.
Oh and remember, all things serve the beam.
Protect Maturin.
