Cottleston Pie alludes to the poem or song by the same title in the dedication, and, later, in the text of the book.In some respects, Cottleston Pie is a symbol for that which cannot be explained adequately with words. The poem says that everything is imbued with its own unchangeable reality. Simply stated, “Things Are As They Are” (30).

In addition, Cottleston Pie is the answer to the riddle posed in the poem. The Cottleston Pie Principle, also derived from the poem’s lyrics, cautions against working against nature.

The Uncarved Block represents innocence and simplicity. It is untainted by contact with the world and pretends to be nothing beyond what it actually is. Pooh is an example of the Uncarved Block, a blank slate with no preconceptions imprinted on its surface.

Honey is a recurring motif in The Tao of Pooh. Pooh loves honey and spends time in pursuit of this simple pleasure. Pooh’s desire for this item contrasts sharply with the busy populace depicted as frantically working to purchase the latest unnecessary consumer items.