The Concept of Chess

Ivory cream squares
Set against walnut brown.

Rank and order,
Range and degree...

O humble foot-soldier,
Imperious Queen.

Webs of dominion
Spread through the land.

Moving with precision,
The minuet unfolds—

Exchanges are made
For good or ill.

No blood is spilled,
But a victor prevails.


©2016 Michael Fraley




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