The Press Democrat, Santa Rosa, California, Sunday, April 19, 1959
Gossip from Holland
(The following was taken from the Australian “Chess World,” so ably edited by C. J. S. Purdy.)
Writing in a Dutch paper, Donner speaks of the impossibility of making much personal contact with Bobby Fischer during the interzonal. He begrudged even the time off for meals, and after a last hurried bite would rush off to his room to analyze or to prepare an opening.
Donner adds, “But I do not see much possibility of his further advance.” That is absurd. When you get natural genius allied to an infinite capacity for working at the chosen art, you get an Alekhine—or a Fischer.
Natural Genius
When you get only the natural genius, or high talent, you get a Pomar. There is a chance that Fischer may undermine his health—but we don't think Donner meant that. To prophesy that Fischer will become world champion would be silly—but to prophesy (by implication) that he won't is ever sillier. It would appear that Fischer's chief obstacle is likely to be Tal, who is not only a genius but seems a very robust character, and is only seven years older.
