“Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision”

“Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision” is a line from the Book of Joel that Keefer recites slowly when asked what he has in mind. The exchange makes the phrase a meeting point between biblical language and Keefer’s identity as a writer, without spelling out a single interpretation of its relevance.

Biblical Source and Recognition

Keefer hesitates before speaking the words, “Multitudes, Multitudes.” When asked whether the listener recognizes them, the reply is an uncertain identification of the Bible; Keefer then names the Book of Joel and gives the fuller verse, “Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision.” The moment moves from an allusion offered without explanation to a source identified by Keefer himself.

Keefer as Author

The response to the verse turns quickly from recognition to praise: the listener says he likes it and jokes about wanting an autographed millionth copy. Keefer answers with a flattered author’s smile and acknowledges that he is not yet close to that imagined success. The exchange establishes the phrase’s association with his literary ambitions, but does not explain what the verse means to him or establish any actual publication history.