By positional play a master tries to prove and exploit true values, whereas by combinations he seeks to refute false values ... A combination produces an unexpected re-assessment of values.
Emanuel LaskerRead
He who has a slight disadvantage plays more attentively, inventively and more boldly than his antagonist who either takes it easy or aspires after too much. Thus a slight disadvantage is very frequently seen to convert into a good, solid advantage.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A slight disadvantage can lead to greater focus and innovative thinking, ultimately turning into an advantage.
Emanuel Lasker highlights that those who face small disadvantages often compensate by becoming more attentive, creative, and courageous compared to their opponents. This contrast in approach can convert what initially seems like a setback into an unexpected advantage, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptability in competitive situations.
Themes
AdvantageDisadvantageResilienceInnovationFocus
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote in a motivational speech to inspire athletes before a competition.
More from Emanuel Lasker
All quotes →The game gives us a satisfaction that Life denies us. And for the Chess player, the success which crowns his work, the great dispeller of sorrows, is named 'combination'.
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Of my fifty-seven years I have applied at least thirty to forgetting most of what I have learned or read. Since then, I have acquired a certain ease and cheer which I should never again like to be without. (...) I have stored little in my memory, but I can apply that little, and it is of use in many and varied emergencies. I keep it in order, but resist every attempt to increase its dead weight.
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The laws of chess do not permit a free choice: you have to move whether you like it or not.
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When Alekhine recognizes the weakness in his position he has a tendency to become very aggressive. Patient defence is not for him if he can see the slightest chance of creating an attack. Yet sound strategy often demands that you submit to the opponent's will so as to strengthen your weaknesses and get rid of defects in your game.
Emanuel LaskerRead
Truth derives its strength not so much from itself as from the brilliant contrast it makes with what is only apparently true. This applies especially to Chess, where it is often found that the profoundest moves do not much startle the imagination.
Emanuel LaskerRead
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