Seven Pillars of Wisdom by T.E. Lawrence - Penguin Modern Classics Edition | Historical Memoir & Middle East Adventure Book for Literature Lovers & History Enthusiasts

I decided to read Seven Pillars of Wisdom after reading Michael Korda's excellent biography on T. E. Lawrence, in order to put some flesh on the bones, so to speak. I have no intention of attempting a scholarly review as any attempt at an analysis of the man, the history of events and the politics of the region require more insightful discussion than there is space for. Nevertheless, here are my thoughts.For me, Seven Pillars of Wisdom is essentially three books in one. Firstly, it is Lawrence's own indepth self anaylsis of his role in the Arab Revolt. However, this is by no means a superficial assessment but probes his own motives and judgements. And at times these reflections border on philosophical thinking and require two or three readings to fully appreciate what he is trying to reveal. In addition, it must be remembered that Lawrence was a Oxford scholar in Edwardian England and some of the vocabulary can be a bit flowery at times. But the time spent mulling over his words eventually brings rich rewards.Secondly, it is a travelog. Lawrence's descriptions of The Arab tribes,the region and its weather place you directly in the eye of the storm ( excuse the pun). I had to keep reminding myself throughout the book that essentially Lawrence would be perceived as a bit of a geek in modern society. Yet here was this essentially bookish academic who not only travelled to a hostile region of the world, but then ingratiated himself within a totally alien culture and then played a significant role in motivating them to attack the occupying Turks. Finally, it is a book about war. As Lawrence said, " the Arab Revolt was a sideshow of a sideshow", nevertheless this does not detract from the mans achievements. What Lawrence achieved pioneered many military strategies for years to come. His daring style of guerilla warfare inspired Col. David Stirling to form the S.A.S. in W.W.2. And sadly his style of using explosives can still be seen in the Middle East today. But it is his descriptions of battle that will remain with me. In contrast to his almost poetic prose of the landscape and The Arabs his descriptions of battles are stark and brutal and leave no imagery uncompromised.I have come away from Seven Pillars of Wisdom full of admiration for this amazing man and his achievements. So forget the film (as good as it is) and curl up with this book. It will take you on a journey with an unbelievable cast of characters to a land and time in history where you will have to pinch yourself to believe it ever happened. But I guarantee it will be the star of the story that will stay in your mind. Col. T.E.Lawrence.