Page 39 - The Art of Learning by Josh Waitzkin_Neat plip book

were wracked with pain, but they were also de ni ng gut -checks pa cke d with
potential. The setbacks taught me how to succeed. And what kep t me on my

path was a love for learning that has its roots in my fi st chess lessons as a six-
year-old boy.

I. A simultaneous exhibition, also referred to as a “simul,” is an event where one stronger chess player
competes against a large number of opponents. When I give simuls, usually there is a preceding
competition to determine who will play me. Then 20–50 boards are set up in a large square of a banquet
hall, and I walk from table to table inside the square while my opponents sit at their board and play one
chess game. When I arrive at a board, the other makes his or her move. I then respond and move onto the
next board. Simuls are an excellent way to demonstrate the understanding and visualization skills of a
strong player.