Books

Signed limited edition, number 25 of 37 copies, signed by Jeremy Wilson. This is a parallel text version of the 1922 Oxford text and the 1926 final publication of Seven Pillars of Wisdom. The tortuous publishing history of Seven Pillars reflects the complexities of its author. On returning from the Versailles Conference, at which his ambitions for a Middle East settlement recognizing the legitimate ambitions of the Arabs had been thwarted, Lawrence set about writing his book to enshrine what he saw as the personal and geopolitical truth. His first draft, completed by November 1919, was lost at Reading Station. The second he burned, retaining only a single leaf. Finally, two more years of writing produced his third draft in 1922, of which he had eight copies printed at the offices of the Oxford Times. This became known as the "Oxford text". Two of the most significant literary readers of this version were Robert Graves (who was unhelpfully scathing) and E. M. Forster, whose more measured and constructive counsel helped Lawrence towards a complete revision and an entirely new mindset regarding the appropriate production standards that should be employed. This process culminated in the publication of the definitive 1926 text of Seven Pillars, first issued in the lavish edition known as the Cranwell or Subscriber's Edition. Yet the editorial influence of Lawrence's literary mentor, E. M. Forster, and other advisers in the production of his masterpiece had been largely hidden, principally because the 1922 text was not in the public domain. This led Jeremy and Nicole Wilson to the decision to publish this brilliant scholarly edition of both texts in 1997. The two versions are placed in parallel with one another, to allow easy comparison between them. The third volume is made up of the colour plates from Seven Pillars and half-tone photographs of Lawrence and his exploits. This edition comprises 20 copies in quarter goatskin and 15 copies in cloth, with two copies reserved by the publisher. Three vols, quarto. Vols. I & II: original black cloth, spines lettered in gilt, black endpapers; Vol. III: original light brown cloth, spine lettered in gilt, pictorial endpapers. Housed in original maroon cloth slipcase. Colour portrait frontispiece and 123 plates (30 colour, 20 double-page) in vol. III. Light foxing to all three volumes; slipcase marked, worn along bottom, offsetting internally: a very good set.

"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.