In the excerpt from John Updike's "Rabbit, Run," the character expresses a strong desire to connect with a spiritual experience during a busy time in the churches. His enthusiasm is palpable, as he feels a sense of excitement about the possibility of making a significant moment amidst the crowd.
On the other hand, Ruth's reaction is one of resistance. She feels discomfort with his faith, perceiving it as something that irritates her. This tension highlights the differing perspectives on spirituality between the two characters, marking a point of conflict in their relationship.