I had a toothache during the first game. In the second game I had a headache. In the third game it was an attack of rheumatism. In the fourth game, I wasn't feeling well. And in the fifth game? Well, must one have to win every game?

Always put the rook behind the pawn.... Except when it is incorrect to do so.

I have always a slight feeling of pity for the man who has no knowledge of chess, just as I would pity the man who has remained ignorant of love. Chess, like love, like music, has the power to make man happy.

... a lively imagination can exercise itself most fully and creatively in conjuring up magnificent combinations.

It is not enough to be a good player... you must also play well

It cannot be too greatly emphasized that the most important role in pawn endings is played by the king.

First-class players lose to second-class players because second-class players sometimes play a first-class game