My Life Depends on Playing Chess 40 Times a Day - The Atlantic

i bookmarked this quickly one day to read about all things chess.

i got so much more.

it can be difficult to discuss something that many people do not experience. no amount of analogies will bridge the gap. you ultimately need people to trust you.

this essay comes close (especially if you've experienced many of those emotions they described of the joy-death of chess).

one analogy that did stand out that can be worth repeating from time to time as it relates to the power but also limit of knowledge: "Knowing this does not give me power over myself any more than knowing about gravity gives me the ability to float."

The author discusses their addiction to chess as a means of coping with depression and suicidal thoughts. They explore the parallels between chess and life, the escapism it provides, and the impact of addiction on their relationships. The article also touches on the suicides of competitive chess players and the challenges of living with suicidal ideation.