Books

Third English and first published edition, fifth impression, Cambridge issue. INSCRIBED, 'To my old friend The Rev E. W. Cox in loving memory of the author [.] S Lawrence Jan. 1. 1936', by Lawrence's mother, Sarah (1861-1959) to the clergyman and schoolmaster E. W. Cox, who was a friend and neighbour of the Lawrence family, and who taught Lawrence and his three eldest brothers at Oxford High School. Quarto (257 x 190mm), pp. 672; frontispiece and 47 photogravure plates by John Swain & Son after Augustus John, Eric Kennington, Lawrence, and others, 4 folding maps printed by The Chiswick Press, Ltd in red and black and bound to throw clear, 7 illustrations in the text of which 3 full-page; some variable, generally light spotting; original brown buckram gilt by A. W. Bain & Co., Ltd, upper board blocked in gilt with text and crossed sword design, spine lettered gilt, top edges brown, others uncut, original beige dust wrapper lettered in black, not price-clipped; spine and wrappers slightly marked, extremities slightly rubbed and creased, short tears and chips at edges, otherwise a very good copy of the uncommon dust wrapper. Custom-built slipcase. Seven Pillars of Wisdom was first printed in 1922 in an edition of eight copies for Lawrence's use, of which only six survive. It was followed by the 'Subscriber's' or 'Cranwell' edition in 1926, published privately in an edition of c. 211 copies and, as Lawrence wrote to the bookseller Henry Sotheran Ltd on 24 April 1925, 'this thing is being given only to my friends and their friends. No copies are for sale.' Finally, after Lawrence's death in May 1935, it was published in a trade edition by Jonathan Cape in July 1935. Such was the book's popularity that the first impression of 60,000 copies was quickly exhausted and second, third and fourth impressions were printed in August 1935, and then this fifth impression in September 1935. Due to high demand, the fifth and sixth impressions were printed at the Alden Press, Oxford and the University Press, Cambridge (as here). The recipient of this copy contributed a memoir of T. E. Lawrence as a schoolboy to T.E. Lawrence by his Friends, and a memoir of Lawrence's brother Frank to The Home Letters of T.E. Lawrence and his Brothers, and remained in contact with Sarah Lawrence until her death in 1959. O'Brien A042.

"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.