Paradise

The classical definition of "Paradise" is much humbler than the modern understanding of the word.

The word originated somewhere in the region near ancient Persia and very simply meant a "hidden garden" or a patio-like space that was sub-grade.

There is a huge amount of utility to that design. In arid areas, there are very large swings in temperature between night-and-day, between winter-and-summer. The thermal mass of the ground helped mellow those temperatures swings and reduces the exposure to radiant loading and losses. Having the garden sub-grade also tempered the wind and help retain humidity.

It was common to plant figs or grapes or citrus or other fruits to provide shade and food.

"Paradise" as a simple place of respite from the brutal realities of modern life has much to recommend it. A small space, furnished with people who love you and a few simple things needed for basic comfort.

A couple bits of verse:

Herewith a Loaf of Bread beneath the Bough,
A Flask of Wine, a Book of Verse—and Thou
Beside me singing in the Wilderness—
And Wilderness is Paradise enow.  -Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam, Quatrain X 1859 translation by FitzGerald

Some say the world will end in fire,
Some say in ice.
From what I've tasted of desire
I hold with those who favor fire.
But if it had to perish twice,
I think I know enough of hate
To know that for destruction ice
Is also great
And would suffice.   -Robert Frost