Books

With 53 plates and 4 folding maps. Publisher's brown cloth, gilt-stamped cover, slightly worn; text is clean and bright. A very good uncut copy. Included is a 4-page subscription for the publication of the limited edition of Seven pillars of Wisdom (complete and unabridged) indicating that the regular edition, priced at five dollars, will be ready of September 27th, and the De Luxe edition, limited to 750 numbered copies at $25.00, will be ready September 18th. First trade edition. Seven pillars is the memoir of Thomas Edward Lawrence, the legendary Lawrence of Arabia, when he was serving as liaison officer of the British Army with rebel forces during the Great Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Turks of 1916 to 1918. Famously, Lawrence lost his briefcase containing the original manuscript for the work and had to rewrite most of the book from memory. A thrilling tale of intrigue and war, Lawrence's detailed prose carries one on an epic tale through war-torn desert landscapes introducing the reader to a colorful cast of characters along the way. Perfect for collectors interested in military history and strategy. Lawrence (1888-1935) is one of the most famous figures in English history. A British intelligence and RAF officer, Lawrence was lauded for his service and invited by Winston Churchill "to join the new Middle East department." Despite being born to an illegitimate union, Lawrence grew up in a comfortable and pious home, where he nurtured his scholastic inclinations. While studying history at Jesus College in Oxford he developed an interest in medieval warfare and archaeology. This led him to excavations in Syria for the British Museum and paved the way for his famous diplomatic and military exploits in the Middle East. Lawrence was also an author "deeply concerned with posterity" and actively promoted his war-hero reputation during his lifetime. While some of the more fantastical moments in his stories are known to be exaggerated, they nonetheless make for an exciting read.

"Seven Pillars of Wisdom" is an autobiographical account by T.E. Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia, chronicling his experiences during the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire in World War I. Lawrence, an English scholar and military officer, played a pivotal role in leading Arab forces in their revolt against Ottoman rule. The narrative begins with Lawrence's journey across the Arabian desert, delving into the complexities of Arab tribal politics, culture, and the landscape. It highlights his efforts to unite disparate Arab factions under a common cause — the fight for independence against Ottoman domination. Lawrence's narrative captures his personal involvement in the revolt, including his leadership in successful guerrilla campaigns, attacks on Ottoman supply lines, and strategic warfare alongside Arab leaders such as Emir Faisal and Sherif Ali. His tactics emphasized surprise attacks and mobility, making use of the desert terrain to outmaneuver the Ottoman forces. The title "Seven Pillars of Wisdom" references Lawrence's description of the varied aspects that formed his beliefs and guiding principles during this tumultuous time. These "pillars" represent themes such as courage, loyalty, diplomacy, military strategy, and the challenges faced in reconciling conflicting interests among the Arab tribes. The book delves into Lawrence's reflections on the moral dilemmas inherent in war, the challenges of leadership, and his own psychological struggles. It offers a vivid portrayal of the harsh desert landscape, the Arab culture, and the alliances and betrayals within the Arab tribes and among the European powers vying for control in the region. Lawrence's prose is rich with detailed descriptions, historical insights, and intimate observations of the people and places he encountered. "Seven Pillars of Wisdom" remains not just a historical document but also a literary masterpiece that provides a profound understanding of the Arab Revolt and the intricate socio-political dynamics of the Middle East during World War I.