AThe Lowell Sun Lowell, Massachusetts Friday, July 07, 1972 - Page 6
Letters To The Sun: Blaming the Russians
Lowell — Recent press coverage of Robert Fischer, an American, in his challenge for the title “World Chess Champion” has struck this American as biased.
Fischer, after all, is an individual, materially disadvantaged, a challenger unsupported by any group or government, bargaining against:
1. The Russian Government (we all know Spassky doesn't make “a move” without first consulting his government).
2. The Icelandic Government (are they truly neutral?)
3. FIDE—the international chess federation (known to be Russian dominated).
According to our President it is not easy to bargain with the Russians when they hold an advantage.
Can we not extend to our countrymen at least the benefit of doubt (all the facts not being available) when he is negotiating alone against such formidable opposition?
It seems to this American that it is the Russians who want out of this match (Fischer, an American, having routed the best in the world an unprecedented 25 out of his last 29 games!) and are provoking Fischer into a situation in which they won't have to put the title on the line and will be able to save face in so doing.
Spassky's refusal to play, without stating any conditions or substantial reasons can be interpreted as further provocation.
I ask the press of this country why Spassky (and the Russians) are not being chastised in the media for their well considered shenanigans, as Fischer was [when] he delayed the match?!
Steven Edelblum, 332 Andover Street.
Blaming The Russians 07 Jul 1972, Fri The Lowell Sun (Lowell, Massachusetts) Newspapers.com
