Fun is a taste that fades so fast,

a brief exhilaration

that sometimes can leave us aghast

at later realisation.

Enjoyment's usually less intense

and also less dramatic,

governed more by common sense,

and not so problematic.

Joy, if it happens, can outlast

the moment, getting stronger

as after-taste of happenings past

lodging in memory longer.

Pleasure has a subtler flavour,

languidly suggesting

its need for leisure time to savour,

mentally digesting.

Delight is a snack with delicate scent

inhaled without intention,

a fragrance all too quickly spent,

impossible of retention.

Jubilation is the topping

sportsmen sometimes make

when their triumph involves stopping

sharing out the cake.

Ecstasy is supernatural,

religious manna for a prophet

but fantasy for us as mortal

with little chance to quaff it.

Satisfaction is the base

of every wholesome meal

where sound decisions make the case

how good achievements feel.

Happiness is the bread of life

infused with family -

parents, children, husband, wife -

the oldest recipe.