In this passage from Cormac McCarthy's "Suttree," the protagonist, Suttree, stands in a turbulent environment, invoking the power of nature. Surrounded by the chaos of the storm, he pleads for illumination, both literally from the lightning and metaphorically for his own inner darkness. This moment reflects a deep yearning for understanding and transformation.

The imagery suggests a struggle between light and dark, emphasizing Suttree's desire for change amidst his turmoil. His call for the elements to either redeem him or destroy him encapsulates a sense of desperation and the profound connection between man and nature. The line about being a "blackened rag in the rain" portrays vulnerability and the weight of his experiences, highlighting themes of suffering, identity, and the quest for meaning.