
Defending: Nimzowitsch on Defence
As I mentioned in the last post, defence is a neglected subject in chess, despite the benefits it can have on your ability. I then went on to talk about what Emanuel Lasker had to say about the matter and I provided some example games. Today, we'll have a look at defence from the point of view of another chess great: Aron Nimzowitsch.
Born in 1886, Nimzowitsch peaked at #2 in the world rankings and is notable for winning the Karlsbad tournament of 1929, finishing with 15/21, above the likes of Capablanca, Spielmann, Rubinstein, and Euwe. However, he will forever be best known for his book 'My System' (1925), which introduced (or popularised, depending on which side you're on) several new precepts that revolutionised chess, Among these ideas are "First restrain, then blockade, lastly destroy!" and "The passed pawn is like a criminal, who must be kept under lock and key". However, we'll be looking at something else today.
Overprotection:
Overprotection is the defense of a strategically important point (usually a pawn) against future attacks. This point is given more protection than is seemingly needed, hence the name 'overprotection'. Why is this necessary? Well, Nimzowitsch says that it works "to the advantage of both parties: to that of 'the point' because the prophylaxis which is set in motion to defend it brings to it the greatest safety imaginable against possible attacks; but also to the overprotecting pieces, because the 'point' acts for them like a source of energy, from which they can constantly draw fresh strength". In short, overprotecting a strong point is a good deed and the reward for it is the activity the overprotecting pieces find in the future.
Overprotect your strong points and reap the rewards!
Now let's take a look at Overprotection being demonstrated in real games. The following game shows Bobby Fischer overprotecting an important pawn and eventually mating the opponent's King with a brilliant attack.