OK.....first off..........it's out of focus. Second...............the slant does nothing for the photograph even if it was in focus. I understand what you're trying to accomplish here, but it just didn't happen, bud. Just my opinion.
Like Jack, I see what you're trying to do, but there's a few things that would go a long way to improve the photo. Your subject isn't clearly defined. The photo came out a little too dark too. I'm not sure if it's actually out of focus, or there is some camera shake in there due to low shutter speed, and hence not enough light.
Take a look at this random similar photo I found quickly via a search
It clearly has a subject and depth of field was used well. Putting it in the right 3rd helps with the composition. It's still a little too dark for me, but it works.
I like the little "glow" on the pawn to the right --the tip seems to be in focus. --and on the kingpiece top. Special effects like the tilting, blur, etc. should enhance the photo and your vision, and not be the end-all. Sometimes simple is best, Jon. Start with good composition and settings --a good basic photo --then experiment with special effects in post-processing.
Kudos to you for taking the plunge and posting in the critique.
Hi guys, thanks for the comments. I have a very loooong way to go. I really appreciate it. Btw, here's the EXIF:
D7000, no Flash, 50mm, f/1.8, 1/20 sec, metering mode is pattern,0 exp, handheld.
Suggestion - move your ev (exposure compensation) about 2.7 to the positive, your shutter speed to at least 1/50th sec. and try again. I don't see your ISO information, so I'm leaving that setting where it was - otherwise to speed up the shutter, I'd suggest bumping the ISO one to two stops higher. Perhaps even with a tripod, and straighten out the picture. I'd try both a vertical and horizontal format just for experimenting.