The Art of Attack in Chess

About This Book

The Art of Attack in Chess by Vladimir Vukovic stands as one of the finest instructional works ever written on attacking play. First published in 1963, this comprehensive treatise systematically examines every aspect of attacking the enemy king, from the basic principles to the most sophisticated techniques. The algebraic edition makes this classic accessible to modern readers. Vukovic was a Croatian chess master and renowned chess writer whose analytical precision and teaching clarity shine throughout this book. Unlike collections of brilliant games that inspire but don't instruct, The Art of Attack provides a structured framework for understanding when attacks succeed and why they fail. This systematic approach transforms attacking play from intuition into science. The book begins with fundamental concepts: the importance of the center, the role of development in enabling attacks, and the conditions that make kingside attacks possible. Vukovic establishes that successful attacks require preparation - they don't appear from nowhere but emerge from favorable positional factors. Understanding these prerequisites helps readers recognize when to attack and when to wait. The heart of the book examines attacks on the castled king in exhaustive detail. Vukovic analyzes attacks against different pawn structures: the intact castled position, positions with h-pawn advances, positions with g-pawn advances, and positions where the f-pawn has moved. Each configuration creates different attacking possibilities and defensive resources, and Vukovic explains them all. Particularly valuable are the chapters on piece sacrifices. Vukovic categorizes sacrifices by type and purpose, explaining when each is appropriate. The classic bishop sacrifice on h7, the double bishop sacrifice, knight sacrifices on f7 and g7, rook sacrifices to open lines - all are analyzed with instructive examples. Readers learn to recognize the patterns that make sacrifices sound. The book also covers attacks on the uncastled king, which require different techniques than attacks on castled positions. Vukovic explains how to exploit a king stuck in the center, how to prevent castling, and how to coordinate pieces for maximum effect against an exposed monarch. What makes this book exceptional is the depth of analysis. Vukovic doesn't just show attacking moves - he explains the defensive resources and why they fail. This balanced approach helps readers understand both sides of the struggle, making them better attackers and better defenders. The analysis has stood the test of time, remaining instructive even in the computer age. The writing style is clear and methodical. Vukovic builds concepts progressively, ensuring readers understand fundamentals before advancing to complex material. Diagrams are plentiful, and the examples are well-chosen to illustrate specific points. The book rewards careful study and repays multiple readings. For players who want to add attacking weapons to their arsenal, this book is indispensable. It provides the theoretical foundation for understanding when attacks work and the practical patterns for executing them. Many strong players credit this book with transforming their attacking play from hopeful to purposeful.