I'd seen him suffer as if he himself were one of those dried-up cornstalks.

The phrase "I'd seen him suffer as if he himself were one of those dried-up cornstalks" uses simile to vividly describe someone's suffering. Here’s what this comparison implies:

1. **Intense Suffering**: The comparison suggests that the person's suffering is severe and profound. Cornstalks that are dried-up are typically withered, brittle, and lifeless. This imagery conveys the idea that the person's suffering is deeply felt and visibly evident, much like the desolation of dried-up cornstalks.

2. **Physical and Emotional Depletion**: Dried-up cornstalks are depleted of moisture and vitality. By likening the person's suffering to a dried-up cornstalk, the statement suggests that the suffering has drained them physically and emotionally. They may appear frail, exhausted, or devoid of energy, mirroring the lifelessness of the cornstalks.

3. **Visual and Emotional Impact**: The comparison enhances the emotional impact of the suffering. It paints a poignant picture that evokes empathy and understanding from the observer. It helps the reader visualize the extent of the suffering, making it more tangible and relatable.

In summary, this simile effectively communicates the severity and visible impact of the person's suffering by comparing it to the appearance of dried-up cornstalks, emphasizing their physical and emotional depletion.