If you are a chess enthusiast who enjoys studying the classics, I Was a Victim of Bobby Fischer by Mark Taimanov is a must-read. This book provides a firsthand account of Taimanov’s fateful 1971 Candidates Match against Fischer, a historic encounter that remains one of the most lopsided and talked-about matches in chess history. However, instead of bitterness or regret, Taimanov approaches the subject with humility and admiration, offering readers an insightful and engaging analysis of his games against the American chess legend.
A Remarkable Perspective on Defeat
Losing is never easy, especially in a high-stakes match that determines one’s future in the World Championship cycle. Many players might prefer to forget such painful experiences, but Taimanov instead embraces his loss as an opportunity to reflect on the beauty of chess and Fischer’s genius. His willingness to acknowledge and appreciate Fischer’s incredible play speaks volumes about his character and love for the game. It’s rare to see a grandmaster write so openly about a crushing defeat, and this honesty makes the book a refreshing read.
Deep Analysis and Insightful Annotations
One of the book’s highlights is the in-depth game analysis. Taimanov meticulously annotates his games against Fischer, providing readers with valuable insights into the thought processes behind his moves. His commentary includes not only move-by-move explanations but also strategic considerations and tactical motifs. The book is well-structured with diagrams that help illustrate key moments, making it accessible to players who want to improve their understanding of classic games.
The Psychological Battle and Tournament Experience
Beyond the chessboard, Taimanov also shares his experiences leading up to the match, detailing his preparation, expectations, and mindset throughout the tournament. He delves into the psychological aspect of the encounter, describing the emotional highs and lows of competing against a player as formidable as Fischer. This behind-the-scenes look at a top-level chess match provides fascinating context and allows readers to appreciate the pressure that grandmasters face in such intense competitions.
More Than Just a Match Report
While the focus of the book is on his match against Fischer, Taimanov also includes entertaining anecdotes and personal stories, giving readers a glimpse into his life as a professional chess player. His storytelling adds depth to the book, making it not just a technical chess guide but also an engaging memoir filled with wisdom and humor.
A Must-Read for Chess Enthusiasts
Overall, I Was a Victim of Bobby Fischer is an excellent book that combines high-level chess analysis with personal reflection. Taimanov’s ability to admire Fischer’s brilliance despite suffering a painful loss makes this work stand out. Whether you are an aspiring chess player looking to learn from historical games or a fan of chess history, this book is well worth your time. It serves as both a tribute to Fischer’s dominance and a testament to Taimanov’s sportsmanship and love for the game.
You can purchase the book here: https://amzn.to/43F3fo0
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it to anyone interested in chess history and classic game analysis.
For more such book reviews https://chessatc.com/category/chess-book-reviews/
