Intelligence isn't necessarily always "on".

If an "intelligent person" was applying their intelligence to something that didn't have a horrible learning curve I would expect them to improve.

If they were just playing for fun and didn't actively apply their intelligence to improving they would probably improve very slowly, if at all (I'm assuming that they don't have a particular aptitude for Chess... one presumably can't suck "forever" without having sucked initially). 

   Chess is an acquired skill. Just like it is for playing the piano. Requires a lot of motivation and hard work. Some do better (natural ability) than others.

I always like hearing from chess players who, like me, are just enjoying the game for the fun of it.  Having spent 20+ of my early years studying and memorizing stuff in school (got a Ph.D. so must be pretty smart), and the past 10+ years straining my brain on basic computerese, I'm happy to pass on the invitation to work hard studying a "pastime."  

Plus, for me, there's a downside to having memorized what all the really good players already know.  If I did know that stuff, I'd lose some of my favorite experiences in the game -- the times when I, all by myself(!), discover a little trick or tactical principle that I know I can use in future games.  The "Aha!" moment.  

Sure, you're thinking, she's just "reinventing the wheel."  But now, just picture that guy who actually Did invent the first wheel -- did he feel Great or what?!  Of course, it could have been his wife who really invented it, but she let him take the credit because it made him happy, and she didn't care about the bragging rights, because she knew she'd done it all by herself and that's what really matters.... see? 

I rest my case.   

   A perfect example of someone who is intelligent but sucks at chess... As always, there is a good excuse. 

   Caveat...we all suck at chess to one degree or another. Too, a few of us rely more on calculating than memorizing. Not everyone plays chess from memorizing long lines.

Never sucked at chess ... ahem.

   Yeah, you do. Tell the truth. 

nope .... AAAAACHOOO!!!!!

   I don't really know where "the line in the sand is"...but my view is anything under <2500 elo, otb. That's a fair assessment, don't you think?

   But of course. Your answer: nope.

Ah, thanks for reminding me of an element I'd left out, and one that further supports my case -- "calculating."   It may not surprise you to hear that, even though I scored high on the math portion of the S.A.T.'s at age 15, nowadays I don't experience joy when I engage in "calculating."  (ok, maybe a little joy .. but not much ... almost none, really...) 

   Sure...sure...whatever you say. 

Can intelligent person suck at chess, forever?

Yes.......I'm proof of that. 

<2500 elo. Harvey!!! you calling me a suckuh ? put 'em up! put 'em up!

tax up to date on that car of yours ?

   This explains why you really, really suck at chess.

   "Suck" is a relative term. You are rather good compared to most chess players. But I wouldn't be so bold as to say you don't suck. 

Just for the record, chess is a very interesting game, and has enticed so many! Even if you can make money off it, it is only a game, no one really admires you other then other chess players, and when you apply for a job, or entrance to a prestigious collage, and all you have is a master chess rating, hmmmmm?  lololo Sorry  GETIT??

Can intelligent person suck at chess, forever?

No, not forever. You will eventually die. Hopefully you will learn to write before you die.

take your hat off

   What I don't understand is that some people really, really suck at chess and they rationalize (that doesn't mean being rational) or they are into denial or they brag about it. This is all very confusing.

You're not my type.