Seven Pillars of Wisdom · Chapter
LXXXI explained
Lawrence recounts the aftermath of Abd el Kader's defection, his own departure from Azrak, and a grueling journey south through winter weather.
What happens
Lawrence recounts the aftermath of Abd el Kader's defection, his own departure from Azrak, and a grueling journey south through winter weather. He describes his physical and mental exhaustion, a confrontation with hostile Bedouin, and his eventual arrival at Akaba, reflecting on the futility of his efforts and the strain of his dual role as an alien advocate for Arab nationalism.
Themes in this chapter
Futility and Meaning
Lawrence questions the purpose of his efforts, describing his struggle to believe in British promises and the 'foolishness' of the struggle.
Suffering and Endurance
The chapter vividly depicts physical exhaustion, fever, and the grueling journey through mud and cold, with Lawrence pushing himself and Rahail to the limit.
Identity and Betrayal
Abd el Kader's betrayal and Lawrence's own sense of alienation as an 'alien' advocating for national liberty highlight themes of divided loyalties and selfhood.
Characters to notice
- T.E. Lawrence
Narrates the chapter; experiences fever, exhaustion, and a dissociative episode during the journey; exchanges clothes with Sherif Ali and leaves Azrak.
- Emir Abd el Kader el Jezairi
His history after leaving Lawrence is recounted: he entered Salkhad in triumph, made bombastic speeches, insulted Druses, and was eventually taken into custody by Turks.
- Sherif Ali ibn el Hussein
Lawrence leaves him in charge at Azrak with money and the Indians; they exchange clothes and part affectionately.
- Rahail
Accompanies Lawrence on the journey south; initially vigorous, he becomes exhausted and tearful; later corrects their direction and helps Lawrence.
- Auda abu Tayi
Lawrence stops at Auda's camp for a greeting and dates, but Auda cannot provide relay camels.
- Jemal Pasha
Mentioned as the target of Abd el Kader's threats; later amused by Abd el Kader and enlarges him as a butt.
Key passages
“I had never been a lofty person; on the contrary I had tried to be accessible to everyone, even if it continually felt as though most of them came and saw me every day.”
Lawrence reflects that he always aimed to be approachable, despite feeling overwhelmed by constant visitors.
Lawrence's internal conflict between his desired simplicity and the demands of his role.
“He and I took affectionate leave of one another. Ali gave me half his wardrobe: shirts, headcloths, belts, tunics. I gave him an equivalent half of mine, and we kissed like David and Jonathan, each wearing the other’s clothes.”
Lawrence and Sherif Ali exchanged clothing and parted with a deep, brotherly affection.
Symbolizes their bond and mutual respect before Lawrence's departure.
“Now I found myself dividing into parts. There was one which went on riding wisely, sparing or helping every pace of the wearied camel. Another hovering above and to the right bent down curiously, and asked what the flesh was doing.”
Lawrence experienced a dissociative state where he felt split into separate observing and acting selves.
Describes Lawrence's extreme exhaustion and psychological fragmentation during the journey.