Already have a joker posted his 15/16 photos to justify the limitations of a lens.
As I said before, everything is created with a purpose. Like you purposely quote me just to insult me.

Just my thoughts on this, there are a few main attributes when choosing a lens

1. Image quality - Generally speaking, this is not very important. Any decent lens kit lens included will produce sufficient quality for small print/internet/pc viewing.
2. Focal length - DUH, this of course is the first criteria of a lens
    UWA - This is not a "cram it all into a scene" lens. UWA is supposed to get close to the action lens. Excellent for landscape pics that has foreground for better depth. Great also couple pics that blends into landscape.
    portrait - Generally for focal length above 70mm as they create less distortion, but your creativity is your limit
3. Fast lens - Fast lens actually is getting less of importance actually. With higher ISO usability and IS, low light capture is easier. Also, you really should consider flash photography is light is a concern.
4. Bokeh - Actually I view bokeh as one of the tricks/guide for photography like rules of third, leading line etc... Very useful for portraiture because it's easier to use.

Anything else? I can't think of now. But REALLY the best lens for a beginner is a kit lens (zoom lens 18-55 etc..)