In the story “Saturday Climbing” by W. D. Valgardson, climbing becomes an extended metaphor for the relationship between Barry and his daughter. At first, Barry was the one who was holding the relationship together as well as leading it. For instance, “ever since his wife had left him … [Barry has been] providing unhesitating leadership for his daughter.”(Para. 6) This shows that Moira was at first dependent on her father. It also shows that Barry is doing the job of two people, thus being the glue which holds the cracks together. As the relationship moves on, Barry allows Moira to figure things out for herself. For instance, when Moira becomes “stuck at an overhang, [Barry leaves] … her to find her own solution.” (Para. 25) The narrator shows
