The Tao Of Pooh

As Chapter 7 opens, Hoff, the writer-narrator, and Pooh discuss Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy”; Pooh declares the song is one of his favorites because of its lyrics: “Sing Ho! for the life of a Bear!” (115). Hoff gently explains that these words are not in “Ode to Joy.” Hoff reflects on Pooh’s desire to have his own song. This conversation leads to the chapter’s main focus: all creatures are special and valuable, though some may not realize their own value.

Hoff uses “The Stonecutter,” a Chinese story, to illustrate. The main character works as a stonecutter, but he is dissatisfied with his position in life. One day the stonecutter passes a wealthy merchant’s house, filled with finery, and wishes that he could become a merchant. His life is changed instantly. Soon, he sees an official carried on a sedan chair by attendants. The man wishes to become the official, and his life is changed. When he becomes aware of the sun’s power on a particularly hot day, he wishes to become the sun. After this transformation, the clouds come between the sun and the earth, so he wishes to become a cloud.

Once he becomes a cloud, the wind blows him away.