I think you make a very valid point and I would agree to an extent. However I wouldn't discount the value in seeking to understand the personality and capabilities of a language as it evolves over time.

I think of any language as another tool in my toolbox. The better I know a tool, the better I know when and how to apply it to a specific problem.

I'd wager that just one trivial project won't fully demonstrate the personality and capabilities of a language.