Photograph

[andyburnett]

I'm sure that thousands of people have visited Fischer's grave since his passing in order to pay their respects. Doubtless many of these were in organised parties, large and small - many have perhaps also taken photographs, some of which have found their way into various publications. However, to have your picture taken beside anyone's grave, smiling or otherwise, is, in my opinion, disrespectful.

Evidently we hold different opinions on the matter.

I take it that you did not participate in the Party in George Square Glasgow to celebrate the passing of the wicked witch of the south?

In my opinion that was much worse. I am sure Andy's smile is motivated by nothing other than excitement to be paying homage to a great chess player and is not an act to celebrate someone's passing which reflects badly on anyone sad enough to behave in such a way. I expect there are many who would consider Mr Fischer's political outlook much worse than that of the lady who's passing was being celebrated in Glasgow in this way.

I have no problem with those who partied when Thatcher died - I would have joined them if I'd been able to. She was a repulsive human being and her views weren't that much different from Fischer's, but at least there were probably mental health reasons for his actions and statements.

If Andy wants to smile for a pic at Fischer's grave then that's his business - others feel differently which is fine too. I don't think it was the best choice for the front cover of CS magazine, but it's not a huge deal in the grand scheme of things.