The first part of Proverbs reaches a peak when the son meets two women. Both invite the young man, and the reader, into a close relationship. The young man and the reader must choose between:
The woman named Wisdom, who represents God's true wisdom (Proverbs 8:1–9:6)
The woman named Folly (9:13–18), who represents worldly wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:18–2:16)
Both women's houses are on "the heights of the city" (Proverbs 9:3, 14), which suggests ancient temples. The choice is between the true God and false gods.