[Retros] Retros column in The Problemist

[Kevin Begley]

I always appreciate efforts to encourage greater overall diversity, even
with respect to chess problems;  but, it makes me cringe to encounter even
the implication that a predetermined quota might be mechanically imposed
upon a specific subset (e.g., when help-games are narrowly subjected to a
faulty comparison, whereas the related subset of help-mates is kept immune
from all similar restraints).

There is a growing misperception surrounding the traditional classification
scheme.
The great folly is rooted in an inherently false presumption that optimal
health depends upon a properly balanced ratio of chess problems, according
to a carefully established set of divisions, and sub-divisions;  in
reality, the guidelines imposed by the traditional chess problem pyramid
are unreliable, and were never informed by research (in fact, the genres
were chiseled without any fundamental definition).

This is yet another indication that the classification scheme is no longer
benign.
It has become twisted into a choking vine, to use a better metaphor, which
deprives us all of fundamental stability, and healthy competition.




On Mon, Apr 21, 2014 at 12:21 PM, Mark Thornton <
Mark.Thornton at papwortheverard.co.uk> wrote:


>  Dear Friends,

>

> The Retros column in The Problemist has a healthy supply of Proof Games,

> but a dwindling number of "classical" Retros and other types of retro

> problem.  Whilst I am always happy to receive originals, of any type, I

> would be particularly grateful to any composer who can help me to "balance

> my portfolio".  Thanks in advance to all who respond.

>

> Best wishes

> Mark Thornton

> ------------------------

> Retros Sub-Editor, The Problemist

> 8 Wimbish Road, Papworth Everard, Cambridge CB23 3XJ, UK

> e: Mark.Thornton at PapworthEverard.co.uk

>

> Sent via http://www.ANY-Mail.com

>

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>

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