Throughout the book, Solomon speaks about the emptiness of life under the sun, and about the fullness of life under God. In the first part of chapter 12, Solomon uses beautiful poetic language to describe our brief life on earth before we go to our eternal home. Now, beginning at verse 9, Solomon concludes his message by reminding us of some lessons we need to learn. He had used the term already in the very first verse of the book. Teaching is not a task for a lazy person.
Goads are sharp sticks used for driving oxen.
In my judgment, reading most novels is a waste of time. The philosophies and ideas of men become a weariness to the flesh. God's Word, by way of contrast, prepares the heart for the world to come. We are to live our lives with a sense of reverence for God. Fear carries with it an element of trust.