Chess, the millennia-old game of kings, has now become quite popular. The vast increase in popularity was initially brought on by the social distancing of the pandemic, where people were stuck at home with a lot of free time. Then, as some people began to return to work, the famous show, The Queen’s Gambit, was released. Since then, chess has become only more popular, with the famous Hans Niemann cheating scandal and the endless big name chess streaming. This growth has been mostly seen in online chess: in the pandemic chess was a fun way to spend time with friends that you otherwise couldn’t see; and in the present, chess is mighty convenient– you can play anywhere and for as long as you like, just pick the time control. Chess has now become something like a videogame– accessible and entertaining. But for some people, the old perception of chess as boring still persists.

I don’t remember when I was taught to play chess, but I remember very clearly being little and playing with my grandfather. We played for hours and hours, game after game; and though I would usually lose, and every win was more a gift than something earned; it was a great pleasure, and I remember those times with a smile. This is what I love most about chess, and what I think others can also learn to love– the excitement of playing a great move, the satisfying success of a complicated strategy, the humbling feeling of loss after you’ve played well but your opponent played better, or even just making fun of your friend after he plays a bad move. Of course, these great fruits of our lives are found in all kinds of activities, so if for you that means sports, cooking, music, or any number of other things, I’m glad– but if you want some more and also want something to do after school on Monday, join chess club; I love it, and hopefully you will too.

Chess club meets in room 3104 from the end of school to 3:30 on Mondays, but of course you can come and go whenever. Chess club is open to everyone; so those who’ve only played online, and those who’ve never played at all are all welcome.