World champion Alexander Alekhine once remarked that "during a chess competition a chessmaster should be a combination of a beast of prey and a monk."

I was ASTONISHED when I read this quote. Surely, he can't mean that a person is capable of being a monk and a ravening, bloodthirsty animal at the same time?! Are all monks, in his opinion, serial killers in disguise?

Since I've modeled my life Alekhine's teachings, I believe his every utterance must have deep meaning. But now I wonder: can I really learn anything about chess from a man who's so hostile to both monks and "beasts of prey"???

Maybe he meant something in the middle, such as a telemarketer.

Lol. I hope you're both kidding. He meant that one should incorporate parts of each situation's psychology into your game and mindset. He believes that you should not only be vicious and ruthless like a beast of prey but also serene and confident like a monk. Pray not to be prey as they say.

"World champion Alexander Alekhine once remarked that "during a chess competition a chessmaster should be a combination of a beast of prey and a monk.""

This remark has some truth... he is saying that a chess player must kill the game quickly and show no mercy (bird of prey), and also lay off the intoxicants and other distractions(!), sleep and eat properly (monk).

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=M74dXmjDbVE

"But now I wonder: can I really learn anything about chess from a man who's so hostile to both monks and "beasts of prey"???"

He is hostile to neither, I believe he has a fine regard for both.

Guys, DimKnight isn't being serious, the last sentence shows the sarcasm. Good laugh though Dim, I think we all known monks weren't Alekhine's most controversial topic.