The Golden Warrior

The Life and Legend of Lawrence of Arabia

By: Lawrence James

Narrated by: Simon Vance

Length: 18 hrs and 41 mins

Publisher's summary

During the 1920s, T. E. Lawrence gained global attention, both for his involvement in the Middle Eastern anti-imperialist movement, and for his vivid and sensational writings about his experiences. Despite the passage of many years and the emergence of a whole new set of problems in the Middle East, and fuelled by the success of the hit movie Lawrence of Arabia, the T. E. Lawrence mystique continues to fascinate. Controversial and provocative, this revised and updated edition of Lawrence James's acclaimed biography penetrates and overturns the mythology that surrounds T. E. Lawrence. James traces the sometimes spurious Lawrence legend back to its truthful roots, yet remains dispassionate and generous in spirit throughout. The Golden Warrior presents readers with a fascinating study of one of the twentieth century's most remarkable figures.

©2008 Lawrence James (P)2012 Audible, Inc.

It gets better at the end

What disappointed you about The Golden Warrior?

This is not so much about the mythical Lawrence as it is about the hundreds of characters in his life with whom he played his life's role as an artist, scholar, military genius, literary writer, adventurer, etc!!! There seems no end to opinions held by people who knew him and the book seems to cover them all—one after another with less than ideal organization.

The publisher makes clear the objectives of this book. Take them seriously and perhaps reconsider whether this is the book you want. The ending part of the book and the epilog moves too quickly but is excellent to the date of publication when relevance to modern Southwestern Asian history is briefly covered.

If you are interested in the personal Lawrence you will find the book relates conflicting and contradictory opinions throughout. Apparently Lawrence had few or no fixed principles or morals and often “put on a show” to serve his own ends. The exceptions were alcohol, tobacco, wasted time, and women. The result is a very complex book reflecting these inconsistencies. As such the book is far better as a thorough and detailed history than for casual listening.

What do you think your next listen will be?

I listen only to Biographies and Histories.