² “Senseless,” said I concerning laughter and pleasure, “How practical is this?” ³ I decided to indulge in wine, while still remaining committed to wisdom. I also tried to indulge in foolishness, just enough to determine whether it was good for human beings under heaven given the short time of their lives.

A Testimony to Extravagant Works

⁴ With respect to my extravagant works, I built houses for myself; I planted vineyards for myself.