Armin's chess poem is so crazy this morning that we've decided that a PDF might do a better job of preserving the format. Take a look at the incredible zigzags that this piece makes (pun intended). Image from Unsplash.com
Adrian's first episode of his Let's Talk Books series is live! Today, he will be discussing Milton's epic poem, Paradise Lost, with Mr. Bonnell. This famous work is filled with timeless themes and fascinating descriptions, and this conversation is definitely worth your time. Sit back and enjoy! Image from Unsplash.com https://youtu.be/WBb9Lu7MX5A
(recycling Pablo Neruda’s Sonnet XVII). Image from Unsplash.com I don’t love you as if you were a classical arena or an untimed casual . I love you as you challenge me and develop my speedy reflexes I love you — as a king loves his mate or a thinker loves pondering, so I give thanks to your haste . From my heartless heart to my mindless mind—————————— I love you — without knowing your deep scar on their thought I love you — wholly without minding my occasional blunders I love you — like this because of your superior matchess…
“Chess is life” - Bobby Fischer Because it is our universal language Because it improves mental age by up to 14 years Because it promotes accountability and responsibility Chess is life Because I have been playing since I can first remember Because it has acted as a bridge between cultures for 1500 years Because it evokes concentration, logic, and critical thinking Chess is life Because it absorbs your emotions Because it stimulates the growth of our brain’s dendrites Because it calms us in adverse situations Chess is life Because it keeps Alzheimer's away Because it instills virtues of graceful losing…
Armin Hamrah '23, photo from Unsplash.com A multifaceted mastermind The queen is a supreme tactician More powerful than its factors combined . Forks and pins are easy to find Commander of the mission A multifaceted mastermind . A unique piece, one of a kind Igniting the opponents’ demolition More powerful than its factors combined . Ventures upon spotting a line Regardless of its disposition A multifaceted mastermind . When attacking, trades declined Checks are in its intuition More powerful than its factors combined . Few restrictions, undefined Capable of fianchettos and infiltration A multifaceted mastermind More powerful than its factors…
Armin Hamrah '23 My eyes are called by the magnetic board Attracted to the polarized corners In the early game they’re often ignored Left isolated on the back border At the juncture of the files and ranks Found many times within an endgame book X-Rays and pins make them as strong as tanks Only one piece is stronger than the rook Defenses broken with infiltration Rooks undermine the structure of the pawns Requiring intense concentration Without them an attack cannot go on Whether a staircase or blind swine checkmate Brave rooks must always strive to infiltrate Photo from Unsplash.com
In the final episode of the Let's Talk Books series for the semester, Adrian is back with Dr. Su, talking about a poem titled "Unsung." Their discussion focuses on the poem's themes and literary significance. https://youtu.be/Om1hkVCfwaU https://youtu.be/ACsbiLsa8Kg
Armin Hamrah '23 Armin joins Adrian de Vernou as our second contributor to the Literature column as he is hoping to continue bringing forth chess-themed poetry every week. Today's piece is inspired by Wallace Stevens's "Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird." ♟ Among five half dozens, The only sovereign protection Were the vulnerable pawns. ♟♟ Defending twins Diagonally having one another’s backs True brotherly love ♞ Check this L Take the L ♞♟ An interesting combo, says the optimist. An impossible combo, says the pessimist. ♜ Hopeless after an early blunder, Yet a hero in the endgame’s thunder. ♜♟…
Before heading off to break, listen to Adrian as he chats with Mr. Brady about "Sing Unburied Sing," a novel that explores different elements of race. https://youtu.be/WnUks3YoRTI
