World champion Magnus Carlsen takes much inspiration from the games of the former champion Emanuel Lasker. Lasker and Carlsen share the ability to manoeuvre at length in approximately level positions, without letting the situation dry up and become devoid of winning prospects. Such a style does not always lead to attractive games, and some of Carlsen’s victories have become so obscure that Viktor Korchnoi even accused the champion of hypnotism.
Nevertheless, as Carlsen has become more confident, his style has evolved. As can be seen from the following game from the powerful Norway tournament which finishes this week, he is beginning to take risks and play in the sharp style of Morphy, Alekhine, Tal and Kasparov.
Alekhine once wrote that if one’s opponent chooses an eccentric opening it is necessary to react, rather than play by rote. The Swedish grandmaster Grandelius here selects an eccentric opening and is punished by a sacrificial attack of which Alekhine himself would have been proud.
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in