Chess Poem: The Princess

Artwork by Mike Magnan

The Princess
By Annie Newcomer

This tale begins with a princess in flight,
how it ends, depends, if tactics are right.
It matters not if she’s pretty or thin;
her scheme needs “ smart “ with the fix the king’s in.

The kingsmen measure her worth to be small.
Make her move baby steps thinking she’ll fall.
But she develops her mind – masters whit,
as battlefields scare her not one wee bit.

Steadfastly, believes with all of her heart,
In games of intrigue she plays a big part.
Then a pony flies right over her head,
next castle, bishop, lady the king wed.

She steps on eighth rank; successful escape,
stunning “ princess ” turned queen, secures checkmate.