"Chess is my life, but my life is not chess"

Anatoly Karpov’s words, “Chess is my life, but my life is not chess,” reveal a nuanced relationship between the grandmaster and his beloved game. Chess serves as the central force shaping his professional identity, consuming his time, energy, and passion. It offers him purpose, structure, and recognition, becoming so integral that his existence and sense of self are deeply entwined with the sixty-four squares and the infinite combinations of moves. The game demands immense dedication, training, strategy, analysis, and the emotional resilience to face both triumphs and defeats. For Karpov, chess is not simply a pastime or a career choice; it is a discipline that has guided his decisions, molded his thinking, and perhaps shaped his worldview.

Yet, Karpov carefully polarizes this by stating that his life is not chess, creating an important boundary. Despite his devotion, he acknowledges the existence of broader aspects to his identity and experience. A human being is more than their professional pursuit or celebrated skill. Life includes relationships, personal growth, emotional experiences, and moments unconnected to the structure and logic of chess. Karpov hints there are facets of his journey, family, friendships, emotions, and interests, that exist outside the monochrome board and its challenges. Such an insight helps prevent the erasure of the self by a career or passion. It is a delicate balance between immersive commitment and self-preservation, ensuring that identity remains whole, complex, and resilient.

Many individuals, regardless of their profession, confront this dilemma. The artist, scientist, or athlete who defines themselves entirely by their craft risks emptiness when that pursuit wavers. Karpov’s wisdom lies in maintaining a separation, embracing his love for chess fully while recognizing his being is not exhausted by it. It is an assertion of both dedication and autonomy, a gentle reminder to maintain one’s humanity amid consuming passions.