Friday, July 16, 2004

checkmate

Bobby Fisher arrested in Japan, awaits extradition to U.S. I've been a fan of Bobby Fisher ever since seeing the movie, in the way that you always like to see the underdog win. He's brilliant, pure and simple. But after delving through a few articles like this one, I've come to realize what a deeply troubled man he is. Being a famous chess player has got to be one of the Supreme Ironies, sort of like being an Olympic meditator or world-class recluse. Chess defies hype and stardom. Yet Fisher is truly a great player, and the conflicting roles have undoubtedly put him somewhere unique. I just think the U.S. officials need to let the guy be. How can you condemn a man who could understand an article like this?


Update: think chess is hard? Try this.