Books

Original buckram. First Trade Edition: ?First Published for General Circulation.? Contains the extraordinary autobiographical account by ?Lawrence of Arabia? of his role in the rebellion of the Arabs against the Turks between 1916-18. Churchill called this work one of the ?great books written in the English language.? Basis for the 1962 David Lean film ?Lawrence of Arabia? starring Peter O?Toole, Alec Guinness, Jack Hawkins, Anthony Quinn, Omar Sharif, Anthony Quayle, Claude Rains, and Arthur Kennedy, which won 7 Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. Laid in is the rare four-page ?Lawrence of Arabia Memorial? regarding the establishment of Lawrence?s bust in St. Paul?s Cathedral, which calls for contributions. Among the seven signatories listed at the end of the memorial are F. M. Allenby, W. S. Churchill, and G. Bernard Shaw. Also laid in is a signature of F. M. Allenby dated October 1928. Allenby was Lawrence?s commander during the Arab Rebellion. Armorial bookplate, some very slight foxing, Near Fine.

"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.