To get someone to do something by flattering or coaxing them. If successful, it's an excellent strategy. If unsuccessful, the opposing party may still do something, but it may be very much the opposite of the desired effect.
KidsReactionsFrownsAcceptanceStages of grief, illustratedI see.Bedroom drama?
What did you do this weekend? Alex Honnold, the prolific mountain climber, climbed Yosemite National Park's El Capitan alone and with no ropes. Yes, you read that right.
Oh, and he also did the entire 2,800-foot climb in under four hours while taking a purposefully hard route. This is the first time anyone has ever "free soloed" El Capitan. Naturally, Honnold seems pretty nonchalant about it all:
I think we’re good Alex. You don’t need to do it again. Because it is dangerous, right?
It felt much less scary than a lot of other solos I’ve done.
Which ones?
Probably all of them. Because I put so much work into this one. I was so dialed.
Well, that's kind of awesome.
There was no uncertainty on this. I knew exactly what to do the whole way. A lot of the handholds feel like old friends.
You can read all about how nuts this completely nuts thing was and you can read the interview with Honnold after he finished.
Rock climbingEl CapitanFree soloingAlex HonnoldPeople who are better than youCheating deathO Captain, My Captain?