Is that not very depressing, a symbol of the utter fruitlessness of all human endeavour?
"The Song of Songs"
Hermann Sudermann
"No-I wish you could bring yourself to think of him more indulgently, but-" Colonel Tom knew the fruitlessness of that line of counsel, so he brushed lightly by to other topics.
"The Tempering"
Charles Neville Buck
Constantina had the diplomacy to make her peace with her brother as soon as she saw the fruitlessness of this scheme.
"Women of Early Christianity Woman: In all ages and in all countries, Vol. 3 (of 10)"
Alfred Brittain Mitchell Carroll