(wo)Man’s Search for Pleasure
What makes us jump out of bed (or stay in it) — pursuit of pleasure?
People spend their lives chasing things they think will make them happy — finance, fun, or fame. Sometimes all three Fs but barely manage to get one!
But here’s the kicker: even when we catch them, they don’t always feel like the prize we imagined.
Ignoring the existential quenches, the spectrum of human pleasures can be categorized broadly into the following:
- Material (finance): The drive for security and tangible resources.
- Sense (fun): The pursuit of immediate gratification and sensory joy.
- Glory (fame): The desire for recognition, influence, or a sense of significance.
While the common man is happy chasing either money, pursuing sensory pleasures or building a “personal brand”. Things get more interesting at the intersection.
Imagine now, there was a venn-diagram, with each of the zones, the intersection would be:
1. Intersection of Material & Sense
These people work hard to get rich and use their money to enjoy life’s pleasures like luxury, food, and travel.
eg. Jordan Belfort: Made money and spent it on wild parties and luxury.
Plight: They often end up in trouble, with their lives ruined by greed and overindulgence.
2. Intersection of Material & Glory
These people want to get rich and also be respected, famous, or powerful.
eg. Donald Trump: Gained wealth and sought power as a politician.
Plight: They can become too obsessed with fame or respect, leaving behind a mixed and often controversial legacy where material accomplishments are overshadowed by divisive reputations.
3. Intersection of Sense & Glory
These people live for pleasure but also want to be admired and famous.
eg. Marilyn Monroe: Loved beauty and luxury but also became a global icon.
Plight: They often feel torn between their private desires and public image, leading to personal struggles or breakdowns.
4. Intersection of Material, Sense & Glory
These people want it all — money, pleasure, and fame — and try to balance everything.
eg. Tiger Woods: Made huge wealth, lived a glamorous life, and sought glory as a sports icon.
Plight: The pressure of chasing everything can lead to burnout, scandals, or a life that feels unfulfilled despite success.
Chasing wealth, pleasure, or fame might bring short-term happiness, but it often leads to problems, leaving people empty or struggling to find true peace.
Whether you’re after money, sensory joys, fame — or all three — you’ll likely find some fun and a fair share of headaches along the way.
Chasing too much of one slice might leave you stuffed but unsatisfied, while juggling the whole pie can turn life into a messy kitchen.
The truth?
Pleasure is delightful, but it’s slippery — like a soap bar in a fancy hotel. Enjoy it, but don’t cling too hard, or you might just lose your grip.