Final answer:
John purifies himself at the lighthouse as a symbol of self-cleansing and transformation, possibly using elements like water and light in his purification process, akin to baptism or other cultural rites.
Step-by-step explanation:
The character John purifies himself at the lighthouse as part of his journey towards cleansing and self-realization. In the context of the story, his actions are not explicitly described; however, the purification process often symbolizes an attempt to wash away sin and achieve purity.
This can be a spiritual or physical act, resembling a form of baptism, where one is reborn into a new state of being. John's experience, especially in a place of deep personal significance like the lighthouse, may represent a moment of transformation where he confronts his past actions and seeks to begin anew. The lighthouse, as a guiding beacon, suggests illumination and clarity, accentuating his quest for purity.
Purification rites and practices can be intricate, varying from culture to culture, yet they often incorporate elements like water, light, or other natural symbols to represent the washing away of the old self and the emergence of a renewed individual. John's purification could include acts such as bathing, fasting, prayer, or meditation, each serving to assist him in shedding his previous life and starting over with a cleansed conscience and spirit.