When I read passages or quotes that use the following device, I get tickled:

There is no doubt that during the next fifteen to twenty years the chess world will witness the struggle of two exceptionally powerful talents - M. Tal and R. Fischer. - Mikhail Botvinnik, 1961

Yes, it's the "first initial, last name" trick. Apparently the Russians favor this sort of thing quite a bit; or maybe just the chessplayers do.

Here's are some passages from a protest letter (apparently it's not posted anywhere) written by Efim Geller, grandmaster coach to Boris Spassky during the 1972 World Championship:

...The letters mention, in particular, Mr. R. Fischer's chair...Why, for instance, does Mr. R. Fischer protest...Mr. F. Cramer's demand that Mr. R. Fischer should be given "his" particular chair...I would also like to note that having known Mr. B. Spassky for many years...

Hilarious.

I would appreciate feedback from everyone, but especially Mr. G. Tape, Mr. T. Frink, and Mr. B. Wings.