# XV explained — Seven Pillars of Wisdom

> Chapter companion for Seven Pillars of Wisdom by T. E. Lawrence.

## What happens

Lawrence observes Feisal's Arab army, noting their fear of artillery, their tribal composition, and the challenges of guerrilla warfare. He promises Feisal support from the British, including a base at Yenbo, guns, and volunteer officers. Lawrence reflects on the Arab revolt's spirit and the strategic limitations of tribal fighters.

## Themes in this chapter

### War and Guerrilla Tactics

Lawrence analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of tribal fighters, advocating for guerrilla warfare and the use of light automatic guns.

### Suffering and Endurance

The Arab fighters endure harsh conditions, marching and fighting barefoot, yet remain resilient and enthusiastic.

### Culture and Otherness

Lawrence contrasts Arab tribal customs, such as blood feuds and pay-for-service, with Western military norms, highlighting cultural differences.

## Character check-ins

### T.E. Lawrence

Observes Feisal's troops, promises British support, and reflects on the Arab revolt's dynamics.

### Emir Feisal

Discusses artillery needs with Lawrence, receives promises of British aid, and commands a tribal army.

### Aziz el Masri

Mentioned as a type of officer suitable for leading an Arab regular column, and for his experience with artillery fear in Tripoli.

### Maulud el Mukhlus

Mentioned as a type of officer suitable for leading an Arab regular column.

### Mohammed el Dheilan

Not directly mentioned in excerpts; omitted.

## Key lines

> every man within earshot behind cover. They thought weapons destructive in proportion to their noise. They were not afraid of bullets, not indeed overmuch of dying: just the manner of death by shellfire was unendurable.

The Arabs feared artillery not because of its lethality but because of its terrifying noise, which drove them to seek cover.

_Lawrence observes the psychological impact of shellfire on tribal fighters._

> From the magnificent Feisal down to the most naked stripling in the army the theme was artillery, artillery, artillery.

Everyone in Feisal's army, from the leader to the youngest soldier, was obsessed with obtaining artillery.

_Highlights the universal demand for guns among the Arab forces._

> The men received me cheerfully. Beneath every great rock or bush they sprawled like lazy scorpions, resting from the heat, and refreshing their brown limbs with the early coolness of the shaded stone.

The Arab fighters greeted Lawrence warmly, lounging under rocks and bushes to escape the heat.

_Describes the relaxed yet vigilant posture of the tribal soldiers._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/seven_pillars_of_wisdom_se/chapters/xv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/seven_pillars_of_wisdom_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/seven_pillars_of_wisdom_se/chapters