When our turn is to open, twenty moves we could make.

The principles taught; guide the path we should take.

When seeing a threat, we should keep it at bay,

But there could be an opportunity, it depends on the play.

If a path to glory, is not available just yet,

Stick to development, best to avoid, then to regret.

When castling is complete, for the safety of our king,

We move to the middle game. Which skills, do we bring?

The tactics we choose, the positions we take,

all that depends, on moves that they make.

There are times to be cautious and times to advance.

One must be clever when one takes a chance.

While we dance on the board, certain positions are desired.

The best ones, however, are often inspired.

While adrenaline flows, we might feel rushed,

But the background has faded, and all sounds are hushed.

One move forced another, no choice to be made,

It is as if they are poked, by a very sharp blade.

Especially in the end game, the move sequence matters,

You have captured their pieces, it left them in tatters,

If their king is surrounded, no moves, no escaping,

He had better be in check, or we’re just stalemating.

So, keep up the tempo, time pressure, make haste,

Should they run out of time, it is victory we taste.