And perhaps it was precisely because she knew nothing at all about chess that chess for her was not simply a parlor game or a pleasant pastime, but a mysterious art equal to all the recognized arts. She had never been in close contact with such people - there was no one to compare him with except those inspired eccentrics, musicians and poets whose image one knows as clearly and as vaguely as that of a Roman Emperor, an inquisitor or a comedy miser. Her memory contained a modest dimly lit gallery with a sequence of all the people who had in any way caught her fancy.
The character's lack of knowledge about chess transforms the game into something more profound for her—an art form on par with the greatest recognized disciplines. Unlike a mere hobby, chess embodies a sense of mystery and intrigue that resonates deeply with her. Her perspective is shaped by her limited exposure to others who possess such passion, making chess a unique experience that stands apart from typical social activities.
In her mind, the game evokes images of inspired eccentrics and creative figures like musicians and poets, whose essence she perceives as both clear and elusive. This emotional connection reveals a gallery of impressions rather than concrete comparisons, highlighting how chess serves as a bridge to these artistic influences. For her, this lack of familiarity enriches her engagement with the game, imbuing it with a significance that transcends its rules.