I have frequently stated that I regard chess as an art form, where creativity prevails over other factors.
Vasily SmyslovThe Ruy Lopez occupied a constant place in my opening repertoire. In it is reflected the classical interpretation of the problem of the centre.
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 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