The passage reflects the character's internal conflict regarding prayer. While he considers the possibility of seeking supernatural assistance through prayer, he feels hesitant because his current prayers consist of memorized formulas. This familiarity makes him uncomfortable with the idea of spontaneous, heartfelt prayer for a specific need.

This discomfort stems from a concern about breaking from tradition and the established way of praying. He finds himself at a crossroads, contemplating the necessity of sincere communication with a higher power versus adhering strictly to the rituals he has always followed.