he incorporated the simplest solution first thing in the code, He just wasn't satisfied with how simple it should be and did an impressive job, however, more code means more potential bugs.

Respect my friend, you are so serious about this 7 kyu kata!
Respect to he who pays so much attention!

LOL

I still laugh at myself every time I think back to this problem. Thanks for your notes!

LOL I guess the point is that pattern recognition skills are tested here.
Or: how to reduce the complexity of a seemingly difficult task until something simple is left.
A very useful skill for any programmer/ developer

If you have a look at the first line of the function, you will know.

holy cow. Gotta wonder what this guy thought after submitting his solution and seeing everyone else's.