“Such An Infernal Liar” (Press, 20 December 1969)

"The Secret Lives of Lawrence of Arabia," authored by Phillip Knightley and Colin Simpson, offers a deep dive into the complex persona of T. E. Lawrence, a figure historically shrouded in mystery. The authors build upon earlier narratives, providing fresh insights while not shying away from conjecture. However, the book presents a certain deflationary view of Lawrence, highlighting his propensity to lie about his exploits, which ultimately complicates his legacy as a heroic figure in history. The critique begins with an acknowledgment of Lawrence's remarkable accomplishments intertwined with his deceptive tendencies. Lawrence’s life was marked by contradictions, stemming significantly from his troubled family background; his parents were unmarried, and his father’s abandonment left a mark on his identity. The narrative navigates through Lawrence's complex relationship with truth, suggesting he was not only a capable leader but also a manipulative figure who saw value in fabricating aspects of his life. The authors portray Lawrence more as a diplomat and intelligence officer than merely a guerilla leader, detailing how he navigated and interpreted British and Arab policies during World War I. By delving into Foreign Office reports, new context is provided regarding his motivations and actions, especially highlighting his disdain for the French. In addition to his public persona, the book explores Lawrence's private life and sexual orientation. Although it is suggested that he was likely homosexual, this aspect of his identity remains unproven in absolute terms. His long-standing affection for an Arab boy named "Dahoum" hints at depths in Lawrence's character, suggesting emotional complexities following his wartime experiences. The authors also touch on Lawrence's personal relationships, particularly with a man named Bruce, who provided support and companionship, suggesting a strong bond beyond mere physical affinity. This relationship, alongside Lawrence’s penchant for anonymity and disguise, shapes a portrait of a man who relished the duality of his existence. His time in the military wraps him in layers of personal myth-making, from writing letters privately to commanding officers to engaging in risky behaviours with peers. Lawrence's later years reflect his involvement in technological advancement, particularly in high-speed rescue craft, yet his low service status calls into question the efficacy and legacy of his contributions. Ultimately, the book assesses Lawrence’s life as one marked by genius yet fraught with the turmoil of deception and the struggle for identity. His literary work, especially "The Seven Pillars of Wisdom," may serve as his primary legacy, symbolising both the brilliance and the tormented essence of an enigmatic figure who can be appreciated but never entirely understood. Thus, the narrative illustrates that while the myth of Lawrence persists, deciphering truth from the layers of his life remains a challenging endeavour.

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