Harry Golombek Libros

Jose Capablanca emerged as a chess prodigy, dominating his first elite tournament in 1911 with a calm and effortless style. He swiftly defeated established grandmasters and claimed the world title in 1921 without losing a game. His remarkable streak continued with victories in prestigious tournaments, including a stunning performance in New York 1927 against top contenders. However, this triumph may have led to overconfidence, resulting in his loss of the world title to Alekhine later that year. Capablanca's legacy remains that of an invincible chess genius.

The book explores the remarkable rise and fall of Mikhail Tal, a Latvian chess prodigy who, in just three years, transformed from an unknown student to a champion by defeating renowned Soviet Grandmasters, including the formidable Mikhail Botvinnik. It highlights the fleeting nature of talent in chess, drawing parallels between Tal and other brilliant yet ephemeral players throughout history. The narrative captures the intensity of Tal's genius and the impact of his swift ascent in the competitive chess landscape.

The 1959 Candidates' Tournament is highlighted for its intense competition and the emergence of Mikhail Tal as a future World Champion. Paul Keres showcased exceptional skill, balancing his aggressive style with strategic finesse, which led to three victories over Tal. This tournament not only marked a pivotal moment in Keres' career but also set the stage for Tal's rise, making it a significant event in chess history.

The 1972 world chess championship in Reykjavik, featuring Boris Spassky and Bobby Fischer, stands out as the most publicized and scrutinized match in chess history. This high-stakes competition not only captivated chess enthusiasts but also drew significant global attention, highlighting the intense rivalry and the cultural impact of the game during the Cold War era. The match became a symbol of intellectual prowess and national pride, marking a pivotal moment in the sport's history.

Focusing on the strategic understanding of chess, this manual by Grandmaster Emeritus Golombek emphasizes the reasoning behind each move rather than just memorizing variations. He champions chess as an art form, providing insights into the ideas that justify different openings. This approach sets his work apart from typical openings books, offering players a deeper comprehension of the game, ensuring they grasp the concepts rather than merely mimicking master strategies.

The 1948 chess tournament is shrouded in both inspiration and controversy, particularly regarding the exclusion of Polish grandmaster Miguel Najdorf despite the withdrawal of US Grandmaster Reuben Fine. This pivotal event not only showcased the world's top chess players but also highlighted the political and social dynamics influencing the game's landscape during a tumultuous period in history. The tournament's legacy continues to provoke discussion and analysis among chess enthusiasts and historians alike.

The book offers an in-depth analysis of the intense rivalry between two chess legends, Botvinnik and Smyslov, during their pivotal world title matches in the 1950s. Golombek provides firsthand accounts and critical insights into the second and third clashes, complemented by detailed game notes from their 1958 match. This exploration not only highlights the strategies employed by both players but also captures the historical significance of their encounters in the world of chess.

The intense rivalry between Tigran Petrosian and Boris Spassky during their 1966 and 1969 world championship matches showcases remarkable chess artistry. Petrosian's defensive prowess allowed him to retain the title in 1966, while Spassky's eventual triumph in 1969 highlighted his aggressive strategies. These matches are celebrated for their breathtaking moves, including stunning sacrifices of pieces that exemplified the players' brilliance and creativity. The battles not only defined an era but also enriched the chess world with unforgettable moments.

Focusing on the best chess games from the early 20th century to 1940, this companion volume highlights legendary players like Capablanca, Alekhine, and Lasker. The games are presented chronologically, culminating in the Second World War era. Each game is annotated with clarity and authority, reflecting Golombek's renowned expertise. This collection offers valuable insights into the strategies and styles of some of chess history's greatest figures.