Wilhelm Steinitz

A win by an unsound combination, however showy, fills me with artistic horror.

Chess is intellectual gymnastics.

I have never in my life played the French Defence, which is the dullest of all openings.

Only the player with the initiative has the right to attack.

Fame, I have already. Now I need the money.

I do not believe a good player is capable of having an evil thought during the game.

Chess is not for timid souls.

Chess is so inspiring that I do not believe a good player is capable of having an evil thought during the game.

A sacrifice is best refuted by accepting it.

When you have an advantage, you are obliged to attack; otherwise you are endangered to lose the advantage.