Karl Baba describes a scary solo ascent of Washington Column Direct in Yosemite.
"Foolish solo manoeuvres are often inspired by some relationship angst. Scaring the crap out of yourself cuts through layers of pettiness to the core of our existence. This was one of those "girlfriend solos"...
...I prayed, repented, and did feverish incantations; then I placed the brass nut in a crack and hand-over-handed down the webbing to its end, which was still 22 feet over the ledge. I found a stance on a tiny foothold. I was still too far above the ledge to jump..."
Read more at http://www.ukclimbing.com/articles/page.php?id=1737