The Taoist concept of simplicity or the uncarved block is pu.
Pu, written 樸, literally means unworked or uncarved wood. Daoist texts use the image of a block before it has been shaped into a tool or ornament to express an original state untouched by artificial desires, social conventions, and excessive cleverness.
The metaphor is especially associated with the Daodejing, where Laozi repeatedly praises returning to simplicity. In chapter 28, the uncarved block represents an intact natural condition; once carved apart, it becomes useful objects but loses its wholeness. Pu therefore does not simply mean being unsophisticated. It suggests preserving natural potential by resisting unnecessary manipulation.
Pu is related to ziran, usually translated as naturalness or spontaneity, but the terms are not identical. Wu wei means non-forcing or effortless action, while de refers to virtue, inner power, or integrity. A later Daoist figure, Ge Hong, used the name Baopuzi—“Master who Embraces Simplicity”—showing how influential the image became.