A fragment ?from Sippar, c 1700 BCE
Tablet iii
The alewife spoke to him, to Gilgamesh,
“Gilgamesh, where do you roam?
You will not find the eternal life you seek.
When the gods created mankind
They appointed death for mankind,
Kept eternal life in their own hands.
So, Gilgamesh, let your stomach be full,
Day and night enjoy yourself in every way,
Every day arrange for pleasures
Day and night, dance and play,
Wear fresh clothes.
Keep your head washed, bathe in water,
Cherish the child who holds your hand,
Let your wife enjoy herself in your lap.
This is the work …………
(tablet broken)
That which the living………