Tao Of Pooh Analysis

Wu Wei is a principle of Taoism, described in the Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff. The literal meaning is to not interfere. The Wu Wei stresses the point of not interfering with the natural flow. People should not try to create methods to shorten common tasks but instead, let them play out and deal with their natural rhythm. A story is told of a man who was stuck under the power of a waterfall, but is able to get to shore by not fighting against the water, but instead allowing the water to do its own thing and eventually bring the man back to shore. The Wu Wei principle can be observed in both a tough situation regarding Eeyore floating in the river and in the lyrics of the song Don't Worry Be Happy by Bobby Mcferrin.

In the Tao of Pooh, Eeyore is found to be floating on the river, making no attempt at getting to shore. Pooh proposes throwing a rock on to the water and create waves to bring Eeyore to shore. “‘Supposing we hit him by mistake?’ said Piglet anxiously... But Pooh had got the biggest stone he could carry and was leaning over the bridge, holding it in his paws” (Hoff 72).” Those who do not follow the Wu Wei principle, like

At one point he calls Eeyore over from the swamp to see the Uncarved Block, which is actually Pooh. “‘Anything for Rabbit to keep busy over,’ said Eeyore” (Hoff 106). Rabbit is a Bisey Backson who never relaxes and just constantly moves around and works. He moves from one friend to the next, occupying his time with some kind of work. In the song Three Little Birds, Marley comforts and helps relax the listener by assuring that everything will be alright, “Don't worry about a thing, 'Cause every little thing gonna be alright” (Marley). He sends a message to those who can not enjoy life through constantly working, to just relax and stop worrying about their goals and the what the future