At first glance this chapter seems to cover an assortment of unrelated topics. However, upon closer inspection we see that each topic ties into a larger
theme- that of relationships. Beginning with the large societal relationship between the oppressed and their oppressors, the Preacher works his way down relationships between two and three people. Although His view is strictly “under the sun,” even Solomon must admit that there are many redeeming aspects of being in healthy relationships with others. The person who is to be most pitied is the lonesome individual.