Books

Second Wilson edition, limited issue, number 40 of 45 copies in full goatskin. This edition is based on the legendarily unprocurable Oxford Times edition, of which just eight copies were printed. This copy comes together with Publishing the Oxford Text of Seven Pillars of Wisdom, number 40 of 100 copies, signed by the editor on page 28. Spearheaded by Lawrence's biographer and founder of the Castle Hill Press, Jeremy Wilson (1944-2017), the edition presents the first version of Lawrence's masterpiece in its most readable form. The Oxford Text was not seen by many, only the recipients of the few copies Lawrence had made, but the influence of their comments on the final text was immense. For example, George Bernard Shaw recommended that he cut his planned first chapter and tone down some libellous claims, advice which Lawrence agreed to implement. Yet this influence has been largely overlooked, principally because there was no means to readily compare the definitive text against earlier versions. This only became possible in 1997 when Jeremy and Nicole Wilson finally released the 1922 edition to the public, basing their work on Lawrence's manuscript copy in the Bodleian Library. This second Wilson edition contains a scholarly introduction, the text has been revised, punctuation reviewed, and Arabic names have been corrected. An index has been added by Hazel Bell, two-time winner of the Wheatley Medal of the Society of Indexers. The maps are reproductions of those that Lawrence commissioned for the 1926 subscribers' edition. "If Seven Pillars interests you as history, or travel literature or autobiography, you should read the Oxford text. It is a third longer than the subscribers' abridgement and contains all kinds of interesting things you will not find there" (p. xxv). This edition comprises 45 copies bound in full goatskin, 180 in quarter goatskin, and 1,000 in cloth. In Publishing the Oxford Text of Seven Pillars of Wisdom Wilson recalls how he created his 1997 edition, the publication history of Seven Pillars, whether the 1922 or 1926 text is better written, and more. Two works, octavo. Original dark reddish brown goatskin, spine gilt in compartments with raised bands, gilt-lettered direct, gilt title on front cover within checkered panel, gilt-ruled turn-ins, marbled endpapers, edges gilt and trimmed, brown silk bookmarker; [with] booklet in original light brown paper wrappers and chemise. Housed together in original light brown slipcase. With 8 half-tone photographic plates, 2 folding colour maps loosely inserted as issued. Seven Pillars: one map with minor foxing to verso and top corner a little creased: a fine copy. Publishing: wrappers and chemise a touch creased at edges: a near-fine copy.

"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.