From handling of the chessmen you infer the secret springs of human character. To pluck the enemy chessman between your fingers and replace it with your own reveals the cultivated, well-bred killer who cannot stand the sight of blood; knock the chessman over with a small click of wood on wood tells of an aesthetic craving for the fatal instrument, of one more passionate than violent; to push the piece from its intended square is signal of aggressive character and plainly indicates that power is the motive for committing murder; some will hold the captured piece and caress it these kill from cowardice; those who seem apologetic, taking pawns reluctantly, kill for noble reasons; and he who clears the board with one great sweep of his hand will kill from lack of hope, defeated by the prospect of defeat, as did my father only death could mate.
Canadian poet, educational theorist, travel writer, literary critic and Conservative commentator"
He is a member of the Jubilate Circle and formerly a teacher of English Literature at John Abbott College. He has spent most of his life in the Montreal area and now lives in Hudson, Quebec.
Solway is known for his work both as a poet, essayist and as a teacher, as well as for his polemical outspokenness, especially in opposition to Islam and in defence of Zionism, George W. Bush and the war on terror.
He has contributed political commentary to the conservative websites WorldNetDaily and PJ Media.