Chess Explorations (2)

By Edward Winter

Since its foundation in 1982, Chess Notes has published hundreds of games and positions from all levels of play. Whereas some have been illustrations of cunning, eccentricity and incompetence, many have been neglected gems, often with an historical background to explore. A number of the best specimens lend themselves to presentation in quiz form, and eight of those are set out below. Readers have until 25 May 2008 to submit their solutions.

This position is about a century old. How can White win?

The preceding moves were Qg2-b7+ Kg7-h6, followed by the pawn capture Qb7xb6.

The question here is whether the white king is in, or can be drawn into, a mating net.

An odds game gave rise to this position, with two consultants manning the black forces. How long can they survive?

This position received some well-merited attention in 1957. As ever, it is the fastest line that needs to be found.

The question here is whether there is more than one way for Black to win, just one way, or no way at all.

This is the oldest position in the present set, and one of eight games played in a blindfold simultaneous exhibition.

Is Black as helpless as he looks?

The reader who sends the best set of solutions to the eight positions will receive Vishy Anand: My Best Games of Chess, which was written by Anand in collaboration with John Nunn (Gambit Publications Ltd., 2001). The copy will be personally inscribed to the winner by Anand.

Two consolation prizes are offered, for which everyone has an equal chance: Fritz 11, signed by Anand. The two winners will be picked at random from all reasonable entries received.

The deadline for entering the quiz is Sunday, 25 May 2008, and each entry must use the form indicated, which requires the contestant’s full name and postal address.

Submit your solutions and comments here

All articles by Edward Winter

Edward Winter is the editor of Chess Notes, which was founded in January 1982 as "a forum for aficionados to discuss all matters relating to the Royal Pastime". Since then over 5,500 items have been published, and the series has resulted in four books by Winter: Chess Explorations (1996), Kings, Commoners and Knaves (1999), A Chess Omnibus (2003) and Chess Facts and Fables (2006). He is also the author of a monograph on Capablanca (1989).

Chess Notes is well known for its historical research, and anyone browsing in its archives will find a wealth of unknown games, accounts of historical mysteries, quotes and quips, and other material of every kind imaginable. Correspondents from around the world contribute items, and they include not only "ordinary readers" but also some eminent historians – and, indeed, some eminent masters. Chess Notes is located at the Chess History Center. Signed copies of Edward Winter's publications are currently available.