Motif (chess composition)


In chess composition, a motif is basic element of a move in the consideration why the piece moves and how it supports the fulfillment of a stipulation. Any move may and often does contain multiple motifs. Some composition schools put specific emphasis on motivation in chess problems, especially strategical school and Slovak school.
A composition where a maximum number of a certain motif occurrences is shown is called a task, even if the term task is more general.

Classification of motifs

Motifs may be classified according to various viewpoints. In the usual twomovers they might be:
  • Positive - those working towards the accomplishment of the stipulation
  • * Attacking - positive motifs of white moves
  • * Weakening - negative motifs of white moves
  • Negative - those tending to hinder the accomplishment of the stipulation
  • * Defensive - negative motifs of black moves
  • * Harmful - positive motifs of black moves
Similar classification is valid for all directmates, selfmates, reflexmates and other problems with antagonistic aims of sides, while for helpmates and other help-problems only positive/negative level is applicable.

Contents of motifs

The basic orthodox motifs are:
  • Preventing the move of other unit
  • Allowing the move of other unit
  • Guarding of some square or line
  • Unguarding of some square or line
  • Attacking of king
In fairy chess some other motifs are possible.

Forms of motifs

Any of the above-listed motifs may be presented in various forms. In orthodox chess problems these forms include:
In the fairy chess, other forms of motifs are possible, e.g., allowing the move by a grasshopper by providing the hurdle or allowing the capture by a piece by patrolling in Patrol chess.
While studies also may contain problem motifs, they often contain usual tactical motifs.