I’ve seen my share of odd edges, but a stone banana peel is rare. When I slipped on a slick ledge once, the only thing that kept me from freaking out was the absurd image of my feet sliding like a banana peel. I almost laughed, even though I was halfway up. It’s the small absurdities that keep the climb from feeling too serious.

I’ll keep the peel to myself, but I’ll remember that comic idea. If I ever do top‑out with a grin, I’ll chalk it up to a quiet joke from the wall itself.