| Synopsis: |
T.E. Lawrence and E.M. Forster wrote to one another from 1924 to 1935. Each gained from the other's encouragement and constructive criticism. Both enjoyed the craft of writing, and Lawrence rated Forster's detailed criticisms of 'Seven Pillars' and 'The Mint' very highly. Forster felt able to show Lawrence "unpublishable" short stories with homosexual themes, and was perplexed when Lawrence chose not to read his novel 'Maurice'. For whatever reason, Lawrence also politely bypassed opportunities to meet some of Forster's homosexual friends. F.L. Lucas also came to Lawrence's notice as a writer. As Forster knew Lucas, Lawrence asked for an introduction. Their known correspondence, though relatively slight, suggests genuine friendship. Both Forster and Lucas dedicated books to Lawrence. These are high-calibre letters by writers about writing. After Lawrence's death Forster was chosen to edit his letters. This volume also contains the draft opening section of Forster's projected edition, which he then abandoned for fear of libel actions. Other content includes Forster's contribution to 'T.E. Lawrence by his Friends' and his reviews of 'Seven Pillars of Wisdom' and 'The Mint'.This is the fifth volume of nine containing T.E. Lawrence's correspondence with contemporary writers, being part of the scholarly fine-press edition of Lawrence's writings edited by Jeremy and Nicole Wilson. Initially printed for subscribers, the edition became more widely available in November 1913. The volume is available in two bindings: this quarter-cloth series binding by the Fine Book Bindery, and a full-cloth binding intended for libraries, ISBN 9781873141618 |