Another Democracy Hater? Mark Crowther Spurns Peaceful Dialogue
Following our impeccably polite inquiry into Mark's political views he springs a nasty surprise at us with his unwarrantably rude response. What might his teeth gnashing mean? Is he providing us an example of what FIDE’s reaction to the mildest of criticism should be? Is it the way FIDE ought, in Mark’s opinion, to treat famous grandmasters? Please, take into consideration Mark’s reputation of a “liberal” in the chess world: there are swarms of infinitely more rude, callous and shameless representatives of the journalistic lobby. Mark is one of the best educated among them. Almost a gentleman: judge by yourself.
February
17
Dear Mark,
>
> Three days ago I sent a letter to you and still am longing for an
> answer. Do you intend to ignore it? I'm sending it once again, please, be
> polite and respond.
>
Mark's reply:
You don't get it do you? If you start an abusive campaign against
someone then you should realise they will not be happy. I'm having
nothing further to do with you at all. You have the FIDE website and
the World Players Council site to publish material you think fit so
you have a voice.
On the subject of politics, they only matter when they directly
impact on a person's position within FIDE. Kirsan Iljumzhinov's
politics matter because they throw a light on the way he runs
things in FIDE (an active politician should not have this role in my
view) and the fact he uses the FIDE Presidency to bolster his own
image and legitimacy. I have problems with aspects of foreign
policy of many countries, I do not think a chess magazine is a
place to discuss them.
I shall now ignore further communications from you.
Mark
Mark Crowther
Tel/Fax: +44 01274 882143
Mobile 07957 381719
After a brief pause (caused by the Linares tournament) we are going to offer our commentary to Mark Crowther’s letter.