This Architectural Engineer Has Been Playing Chess Against The Public On London's Streets For 16 Years– Free of Charge

For the last 16 years, Norman has played chess against the public every Sunday on East London's Brick Lane.

Between the hours of 9am and 5pm, Norman goes up against players of all ages and abilities, surrounded by eager onlookers.

I had the pleasure of meeting Norman in the middle of one of these matches recently. While walking past bustling food stalls and vintage stores, I stumbled across a crowd gathered around him sitting at a long table covered in chessboards and a chess clock.

He wore denim dungarees over a striped button-up shirt, a beret on his head, and a pipe dangling from his lips.

'Don't cry, don't cry,' he playfully taunted his latest opponent, a bald middle-aged man who had just lost a match to The Chessmaster. A round of laughter echoed throughout his audience and the two men gleefully shook hands, parting as friends.

'Next!' he shouted.

In an exclusive interview with IBT UK, Norman shared the story behind bringing his love for chess to the community of Brick Lane.

It's All About Bringing Joy To The Public

When I asked Norman about the unusual way he spends his Sundays, he gave me two reasons as to why.

'First reason, my day off,' he said.

Norman is an architectural engineer via qualifications he earned through universities in London after moving from Syria in 1986. Now, Norman works as a building contractor by week-day and chessmaster by weekend– although his services completely free of charge.

'Second reason,' he told me, 'I do it free for public to make them feel happy.'

'I love to meet new people all the time. So my aim [is] to meet people and make friendships,' he explained.

Shortly after this comment, a man approached nervously with a phone in hand.

'Excuse me,' he said. 'I came here many years ago and saw you play. This is you,' he added, holding the phone up to Norman's face.

'Ah,' Norman said. 'Not that many years ago.' He let out a powerful chortle, and myself and the man couldn't help but join in on his laughter.

The man handed me his phone and I took a photo of them shaking hands. 'God bless you,' Norman said as he walked away.

Norman Believes Chess Works Similarly To Life

The type of chess Norman plays against the public is Bullet, a short game that ends under three minutes for each player.

His love for chess stems from his association with the similarities between the game and our lives.

Norman compared having to fight for everyday necessities like milk and security to having to fight from the first move in chess. He also pointed out that respect is important in both chess and life.

'If we don't respect each other, we don't play a good game. And then life as well. If you don't respect, you cannot do any business, you cannot live. If there is no respect, the life is short,' he said.

Everybody Loves Norman– Even Troublemakers

Brick Lane isn't exactly the safest part of London – UK area research tool Crystal Roof gave the area a 7/10 crime rating, indicating more crime than average – but Norman isn't bothered by outlaws and sketchy individuals.

'Here in Brick Lane, there are negative people. Maybe they are behind, they are unemployed, drinking, or beggars,' Norman said. 'But thank God, I control that 100% with a good smile, good help.'

He wins over those looking for trouble by showing them kindness—asking how their day is going, giving a compliment, or offering a piece of candy. It's how he wins 'his or her heart.'

Norman's Message For The Public

His infectious positivity is one he encourages the public to embrace themselves so they can spread it too.

'Never, ever, ever say anything negative about yourself,' he said earnestly.

'It's like a triangle,' he explained, holding up three fingers and pointing to each one as he said, 'Any time, any place, with anyone.'

He believes that being positive in yourself will bring positivity out in other people.

'Now I can say "I am good, I'm happy, I'm rich, I'm sexy, I'm open. I love everyone," so no hard feelings and I win everybody.'

The results of Norman's radiant positivity are clear.Throughout my time spent with Norman, three separate people approached him for photos. Crowds of people stood around watching him play, reacting to whether his opponents beat him and Norman's teasing comments. Some had phones out, recording the spectacle.

His chess table was constantly surrounded by laughter and joy– and Norman knows it's joy that will stick.

'It doesn't cost me anything. Good smile, good give, you know? And like now, I believe every time you pass here... in your mind, Norman.' He smiled, pointing to his head.

'And you'll like to come say hi to me,' he added.

I told him that of course I would, and he's right. Anyone who's seen Norman play on Brick Lane won't be able to help thinking of his playful banter, witty humour and undeniable charm the next time they're out walking in the area.

And who knows– maybe they'll have just enough courage to take on The Chessmaster themselves.