Roman III

"It is no time to be playing chess when one's house is on fire" - Italian Proverb

An accurate statement. Luckily, no buildings have burned down so I could work. I am at the section of the book where the opening of a chess game is described. When describing such chess strategy it is often compared to military strategy, as chess is, after all, a war game. I believe that the first 'A' I got on a history paper was describing how chess relates to war in Stacy's class. It is strikingly similar, assuming that both sides have equal forces and no artillery (modern warfare chess would be interesting, where pieces get destroyed by air raids). The generals have to make best use of their units, which each have specialized functions. These units must be placed in the most advantagous spot possible so as to most effectively attack the enemy. Tactics must be employed to outmanuever the opponent, penetrating into the enemy's camp, cutting off communication, and then smothering the opponent into oblivion. Chess is the same- different pieces move differently and must be placed where they can utilize their mobility most effectively. Tactics are key, complex combinations of moves exist that aim to disrupt and penetrate the opponent's pieces. Most importantly, one must strike where the enemy is weak. The battle will be victorious to the one who can best utilize his forces. Of course, like in real life, the vast majority of matches among the best competitors lead to draws and stalemates.