Books

2 leaves of page proofs, comprising chapter 115; double column (281 x 216 mm); creasing at edges with a few nicks, rust mark to top leaf; with the remains of the wrap-around band with later annotations noting the place of this section within the text. Housed in a blue cloth slipcase and chemise. Page proofs of the complete chapter 115 of the celebrated Lawrence rarity, the Oxford printing of Seven Pillars of Wisdom. The text beginning, 'The machine took me back to Guweira' and ending 'would not retail them too loudly in Palestine!' After having lost his first manuscript of Seven Pillars of Wisdom at Reading station in 1919, and having (probably) burnt his second manuscript in early 1922, by the time Lawrence had completed his third manuscript version of Seven Pillars he was understandably keen to ensure that he had the text in multiple copies. He discovered that the cost of having the Oxford Times typeset the text and run off a few copies was little more than employing a typist, and eight copies were duly printed. Lawrence circulated these copies amongst friends and writers including Bernard Shaw, E.M. Forster, Thomas Hardy, and Siegfried Sassoon. Although these copies are often called proofs, they were not a trial impression for a publication but a draft that formed a stage in the complex composition process of the book. Lawrence revised the text extensively before committing it to print in the 1926 Cranwell edition, and the edited version of the present chapter became chapter 101 in the 1926 text.

"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.