In many ways, the Bishop is similar to the castle. We’re both firm, here to protect the King above all else and possess a reasonable attacking threat. However, whereas you might associate a castle with a dark, ridged and uncompromising piece, our resident clergyman of the board represents something far ‘brighter’.

Everyone wants to see the Bishop doing well because it’s such a friendly piece. It serves the board, has many friends and is generally adored by the rest of the world. Whereas, perhaps, a pawn doesn’t take full advantage of its ability… the bishop makes use of what little skills it has and takes them to the limit.

Jon Fuller is a prime example.

He’s not much of an athlete, but the man has heart… like him or not.

Once in a while, the bishop finally gets a good run and conquers the board by himself. He may not have the power of a Queen or King… but he’s ‘clean’ and honest, and that’s why he takes his place among the great ‘back row’ of the industry.

However, the bishop simply never will possess the qualities needed to be a King. He’s just too nice to experience power for any great deal of time.

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