Ecclesiastes: Quick Summary

"What is the meaning of life?" That is the key question that Ecclesiastes ponders. The book was written by King Solomon at some point during his rule. He talks about all that he's accomplished "under the sun" and how it has left him feeling unfulfilled. He surmises that both the wise man and the fool share the same fate - death. What can a wise person do to have a better life than a fool. Solomon discusses how one should work, but to not work too much; people shouldn't work to collect or create greater wealth, but to have what is needed to live and enjoy the fruits of one's labor. People shouldn't fear death or dread the end of life, but should live life according to God's commandments and have faith in God's plan for us all. The book boils down the long list of sayings from Proverbs and sprinkles them into this monologue by The Teacher (aka Solomon).

This book is currently the book I want to re-read first once I'm done with the Bible in 90 Days challenge. There is so much to ponder in this small-ish book that I'm hungry to re-examine what all is written here.

Fans of the Byrd's "Turn, Turn, Turn," will recognize the beginning of Ecclesiastes Chapter 3.

395 - Massive Attack - Blue Lines

I really fell in love with this album. Where Mezzanine seemed to drown in its melancholy, Blue Lines is a blend of soul, trip-hop, rap, and jazz that is cool and smooth without the chaser of gloom. Some of the songs, especially "Be Thankful For What You've Got" (which sounds like it could have been a career rejuvenator for any gray-haired Motown artist), are really close to retro sounding with how the sounds blend and yet gel in a way that sounds modern. This album showcases why Massive Attack is considered the pioneer of chill.

I'm buying Blue Lines at the next opportunity that arises.

Songs I knew I liked: "Unfinished Sympathy"

Songs I didn't know but now like: "One Love," "Five Man Army," "Lately," and "Hymn of the Big Wheel"

Songs I can go the rest of my life without hearing again: None

Song of Solomon/Songs: Quick Summary

Want to read the Bible and a historical romance at the same time? This book is for you!

While there is much to be said about Song of Songs being an allegorical look at the relationship of Israel to God or Christ to the Church or whatever...I'm sorry, I think that's the kind of search for symbolism that traps many English majors in college. Sometimes a cigar is just a cigar and "Your two breasts are like two fawns, Twins of a gazelle" is about a man sensually describing a female and not some religious allegory or imagery.

I read through the book last week and listened to it while doing yard work Saturday morning. Thumbs up to the audio drama for having a woman with a regal British accent voice the woman's part of the book. It was disappointing to me while pruning bushes when Song of Songs completed...and I was soon berated by Isaiah in the following book. ;)