• Black and blank; checkered boxes
    Numbered row; lettered column;
    Sixteen pieces for each man,
    Standing still, ever solemn

    All in balance from the start,
    White goes first, then black in turn
    Make your move - make it smart
    If you fail, you’ll surely burn
    If you fail, be sure to learn

    Take that piece, and I’ll take yours
    Then, we’ll end up back the same
    Think of what I think of not -
    That’s the object of the game

    Try your best to foil the trap
    My rook is in a prime position
    Hit me hard when I have slipped
    Split the looming coalition
    That will lessen my ambition

    Endgame comes and we are tied
    Fun is finished - now, survive
    Do not back into a corner
    Save the pawns and you will thrive!

    Checkmate, man. The blow is stricken
    Queen and bishop make your cage
    A nice time, I had with you; I’m
    Glad to see you have no rage
    One day soon we’ll re-engage