This quote sums it up nicely for me,

 

"If chess is a science, it's a most inexact one. If chess is an art, it's too exacting to be seen as one. If chess is a sport, it's too esoteric. If chess is a game, it's too demanding to be just a game. If chess is a mistress, she's a demanding one. If chess is a passion, it's a rewarding one.
If chess is life, it's a sad one." -- Unknown

 

Edit - To me, chess is a passion and a distraction. Your take?

Chess is an addiction.

Chess is making love.

chess represents an ability to anticipate situations.