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Go Metaphors
March 10, 2003
by William Cobb

One of the interesting features of go terminology is the use of metaphors. Metaphors can be amusing, but they can also make it easier to understand things and to remember things. Sometimes they illuminate a situation more clearly than an elaborate explanation could. For example: 

AJI: This term refers to the latent potential in a situation, usually involving a stone or two with no real hope but a threat that could develop later. Most Americans know this Japanese word means "taste" or "flavor". It's a delightful metaphor. Think of a tiny morsel of food that isn't likely to be very satisfying, but could provide a pleasant moment and you'll be less likely to forget to make use of that potential. 

FUSEKI: Many players think this word means "the opening", but it doesn't. It means "scattering stones around" and refers not to the opening stage of the game but to the kind of play that is appropriate in the opening stage. Knowing that definition might help you avoid making early plays that are too small: scatter some stones in the big open areas before your opponent does. 

GETA: We use "net" for this Japanese term, and that's a very effective metaphor, reminding us of a way to capture that can save the day when a ladder doesn't work. The word really refers to a traditional kind of footwear made of stiff, wooden slats that resembles the formation made by a "net" capture.

SQUEEZE: A neat metaphor for a series of plays that reduces a group's liberties and allows you to capture some stones or at least make a profit in sente. When you see a small group with limited liberties, you should always think "squeeze".

GO: A neat metaphor for life...Are there some unusual go metaphors you think are useful? 

Past columns by William Cobb are archived at http://www.slateandshell.com/billcobb.asp

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