Even though instruction in chess is possible on very general
lines alone, yet I think it advisable and indeed necessary to
explain the application of such principles to the various phases
of each game of chess. Otherwise the learner might unduly delay
his progress, and lose valuable time in finding out for himself
certain essentials that could more profitably be pointed out to
him.
With regard to the way in which I have arranged my subject and
the form of its exposition in detail, I have thought out the
following plan.
After discussing at length the leading principles underlying
sound play, I have first treated of the OPENINGS, in which such
principles are of even more deciding influence than in any other
stage of the game, as far as could be done on broad lines without
having to pay attention to middle and end-game considerations.
I proceeded as follows, by taking as my starting-point the "pawn
skeleton" which is formed in the opening, and round which the
pieces should group themselves in logical fashion. As a
consequence of the pawns having so little mobility, this "pawn
skeleton" often preserves its shape right into the end-game.
Applying the general strategical principles to the formation of
the pawn skeleton, the learner acquires the understanding of the
leading idea underlying each opening without having to burden his
memory. Not only that, he will also be able to find a correct
plan of development when confronted with unusual forms of
opening.
