Bishops move diagonally. That's why they often turn up where the kings don't expect them to be

Bishops move diagonally. That's why they often turn up where the kings don't expect them to be

In the world of Terry Pratchett's Discworld series, the quote "Bishops move diagonally. That's why they often turn up where the kings don't expect them to be" takes on a whole new meaning. In the Discworld, bishops are not just pieces on a chessboard, but powerful figures in the religious hierarchy of the Discworld's various cultures.

One of the most prominent bishops in the Discworld series is the character of Bishop Samuel Vimes, who serves as the head of the Ankh-Morpork City Watch. Vimes is a complex character who is constantly navigating the political and social landscape of the city, often finding himself in unexpected situations and facing challenges that he never anticipated. Like a bishop on a chessboard, Vimes moves diagonally through the city, uncovering corruption, solving crimes, and protecting the citizens of Ankh-Morpork in ways that the kings and other powerful figures in the city never expect.

Another example of the quote in action in the Discworld series is the character of Bishop Ossory, a member of the Quirm College of Heralds who plays a key role in the novel "The Fifth Elephant." Ossory is a cunning and resourceful bishop who uses his position and influence to manipulate events and shape the outcome of the story in unexpected ways. Like a bishop on a chessboard, Ossory moves diagonally through the narrative, surprising both the reader and the other characters with his strategic maneuvers and clever schemes.

Overall, the quote "Bishops move diagonally. That's why they often turn up where the kings don't expect them to be" captures the essence of the Discworld series and its exploration of power, politics, and the unexpected ways in which individuals can shape their own destinies. In the world of Terry Pratchett, bishops are not just pieces on a chessboard, but dynamic and unpredictable figures who can change the course of events in ways that even the most powerful rulers cannot anticipate.