Tsumego Example
Here’s an example of a tsumego problem that holds hidden meaning.
How many solutions are there to this problem (White to play):
<%image(20060408-SP32-20060408-195129.gif|167|234|White to play)%>
—
Stumped? There is only one solution. The correct solution is:
<%image(20060408-SP32-20060408-195458.gif|167|227|Only solution.)%>
“Why is this the only solution? Doesn’t the hane work?”
Yes… the hane works. In fact there’s no ko. Either way, White is dead… the difference is subtle, but if you contemplate the problem enough times, you will understand what it is. It’s like a koan — except there is an answer. The answer is shown in the next two diagrams:
<%image(20060408-SP32-20060408-200031.gif|193|226|Diag. 1)%>
Diag. 1 (Black 4 at White 7)
<%image(20060408-SP32-20060408-200054.gif|161|228|Diag. 2)%>
Diag. 2
The difference is in the number of ko threats. This can make all the difference in your games!