I was searching for some information on the upcoming man-versus-computer match between Vladimir Kramnik and the Fritz program this month and stumbled upon a fantastic interview that dates back to 2004. In Kramniks interview, Vladimir discusses the game of Chess from an emotional point of view that comes from many years of experience and knowledge of the game. He talks of the constant stream of logical thought that plagues most chessplayers even while away from the board, and how it affects his personal life and much more.

When you begin to understand a game of chess in its full depth, you find that certain rules become blurred. Suddenly you feel that one needs to create a little space here and attack there. But why it is like that, you don’t know. To play according to textbooks is fine, up to a certain level. Perhaps up to master level, but not to grandmasters. At this level you have to feel the game. It comes to you.

I’ll have to keep searching for more details on the Fritz match, as it always turns the media spotlight back around towards the great game of Chess and gives it some much needed exposure. When I find out something, I’ll be sure to post it!