My System

More about the book

A century ago, a chess book on positional play and strategic concepts emerged, authored by a Latvian grandmaster in Denmark. This classic quickly became a staple in chess literature, embraced by generations of players. However, it had its flaws, being quite dense and filled with subjective digressions that obscured core concepts. American Grandmaster Alex Fishbein has now adapted this classic for modern readers. Staying true to the original text, Fishbein has created a more accessible version that retains the unique imagery while enhancing readability for both club players and masters. As he notes in his preface, Nimzovich's ideas remain relevant and have stood the test of time. Mikhail Tal, in his 1974 foreword to the Russian edition, remarked on the book's enduring appeal, describing it as "imbued with an elixir of eternal chess youth." Fishbein aims to preserve this essence in his new translation. The adaptation promises to clarify Nimzovich's teachings, making them easier to grasp for newcomers while providing seasoned players with fresh insights to reassess their chess philosophy. As GM Vassilios Kotronias states, this modernized version is beneficial for all, offering clearer strategies and a more coherent understanding of Nimzovich's timeless wisdom.