Books

260 x 190 mm. (10 1/4 x 7 1/2"). 672 pp. Publisher's tan buckram, front cover with gilt-stamped crossed swords and motto "the sword also means cleanliness and death," the smooth spine with gilt lettering. With a total of 48 plates, seven illustrations in the text, and four inserted fold-out maps. INSCRIBED BY SIR RONALD STORRS ON THE FRONT FREE ENDPAPER: "The 7 Pillars / A Major, Capital / work of history and personality. Höchstes Glück der Erdenkinder / Ist nur die Persönlichkeit / Ronald Storrs / 19 IX 35;" AND FURTHER SIGNED IN ENGLISH AND ARABIC ON STORR'S PORTRAIT found on p. 62. Corners and spine ends a bit bumped, top two-inch area of front cover sunned, a few small stains to the boards; front hinge mostly separated (rear hinge beginning to separate), but still an attractive copy, extremely clean internally. This is the first regularly published edition of Lawrence's account of the campaign that made him famous as "Lawrence of Arabia," signed twice and with a long inscription by one of the major players in that campaign and one of Lawrence's intimate friends. Archaeologist, soldier, and diplomat Thomas Edward Lawrence (also known as T. E. Lawrence and T. E. Shaw, 1888-1935) became involved in the Arab revolt against the Turks while a British officer during the First World War. As much a storyteller as a soldier, he wrote a stirring memoir of his exploits, which became "Seven Pillars of Wisdom." After an initial publication in a small private run in 1926, this is the first general circulation edition, released shortly after Lawrence's death. It immediately became a bestseller, solidifying his status as a national hero and inspiring the hit film "Lawrence of Arabia." The text established a legend, and this particular volume is inscribed by one of the people involved in its creation. Sir Robert Storrs (1881-1955), whom Lawrence described as "the most brilliant Englishman in the Near East," was British Oriental Secretary in Cairo in the early days of the war. There he met Lawrence, who accompanied him on an October 1916 diplomatic mission to meet with the leaders of the revolt that would become Lawrence's main involvement in the war. Their friendship outlasted the war: Storrs was one of Lawrence's pallbearers at his funeral. The inscription in this volume speaks to the respect Storrs held for Lawrence. The German line is a quote from Goethe's "West-östlicher Divan," a series of poems inspired by the Persian poet Hafez, which explore the themes of connections between East and West--a topic dear to both Lawrence and Storrs. With this line, translated by Dowden as "in sense of personal being lies / A child of earth's chief happiness," Storrs celebrates the strength of personality that made his friend unique-the same strength of personality that made this book a classic. First Edition for General Circulation (after a small private printing in 1926).

"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.