I have frequently stated that I regard chess as an art form, where creativity prevails over other factors.
Vasily SmyslovNo fantasy, however rich, no technique, however masterly, no penetration into the psychology of the opponent, however deep, can make a chess game a work of art, if these qualities do not lead to the main goal - the search for truth.
Vasily SmyslovA considerable role in the forming of my style was played by an early attraction to study composition.
Vasily SmyslovThe first chess book that I read was Dufresne's self-tutor, published with Lasker's Common Sense in Chess as an appendix.
Vasily Smyslov