SDL_Rect and negative values

Why, in the SDL_Rect structure and the SDL_UpdateRect() function, can the
first two of the four parameters be negative? Just for allowing me to blit a
block positioning it, for example partly out of the surface on the
left-top(for example in a tile based platform…)?–
Marco Iannaccone @Marco_Iannaccone
ICQ: 18748121 MetalCoder

"What is real? How do you define real? If you’re talking about your
senses, what you feel, taste, smell, or see, then all you’re talking about
are electrical signals interpreted by your brain."
Morpheus - The Matrix

Why, in the SDL_Rect structure and the SDL_UpdateRect() function, can the
first two of the four parameters be negative? Just for allowing me to blit a
block positioning it, for example partly out of the surface on the
left-top(for example in a tile based platform…)?

Yes.
-Sam Lantinga, Lead Programmer, Loki Entertainment Software