The Spider and the Fly Poem: Summary, Stanza-wise Analysis, Questions & Student Guide

Read “The Spider and the Fly” poem by Mary Howitt with a complete student-friendly guide. Find stanza-wise summaries, moral lessons, literary devices, and central idea explained in simple English and Hindi. Perfect for classroom study and quick revision. #SirjiPoetryNotes #SirjiAns #SirjiCLQs

‘The Spider and the Fly’- Summary, Central Idea, Themes, Word Meanings

About The Poet ‘Mary Howitt

About Mary Howitt

Mary Howitt (1799–1888) was a prolific English poet, translator, and children’s author best known for her enduring poem “The Spider and the Fly”. Here’s a snapshot of her remarkable literary life:

Early Life & Education

• Born Mary Botham in Coleford, Gloucestershire, England.
• Raised in a Quaker family and educated at home and in Quaker schools.
• Began writing poetry at a young age and was a voracious reader.

Marriage & Literary Partnership

• Married William Howitt in 1821, forming one of the most productive literary partnerships of the Victorian era.
• Together, they wrote over 180 books, including poetry, travel writing, and children’s literature.

Notable Works & Contributions

• Authored “The Spider and the Fly”, a cautionary tale still popular in classrooms today.
• Translated works of Hans Christian Andersen and Fredrika Bremer, introducing Scandinavian literature to English audiences.
• Wrote extensively for children, producing tales, hymns, and educational stories.

Later Life & Legacy

• Lived in various places including Nottingham, Heidelberg, and Rome.
• Converted to Roman Catholicism in 1882.
• Honored by the Literary Academy of Stockholm for her contributions to literature.

Mary Howitt’s legacy lies in her ability to blend moral instruction with engaging storytelling, making her a beloved figure in 19th-century literature. If you’d like, I can help you adapt one of her poems into a bilingual classroom resource or explore her themes for #SirjiNotes.

Poem: The Spider and the Fly

Here is the poem ‘The Spider And The Fly’ by Mary Mary Howitt.

The Spider and The Fly

“Will you walk into my parlour?” said the Spider to the Fly,
“‘Tis the prettiest little parlour that ever you did spy;
The way into my parlour is up a winding stair,
And I have many curious things to shew when you are there.”
“Oh no, no,” said the little Fly, “to ask me is in vain,
For who goes up your winding stair can ne’er come down again.”

“I’m sure you must be weary, dear, with soaring up so high;
Will you rest upon my little bed?” said the Spider to the Fly.
“There are pretty curtains drawn around; the sheets are fine and thin,
And if you like to rest awhile, I’ll snugly tuck you in!”
“Oh no, no,” said the little Fly, “for I’ve often heard it said,
They never, never wake again, who sleep upon your bed!”

Said the cunning Spider to the Fly, “Dear friend what can I do,
To prove the warm affection I’ve always felt for you?
I have within my pantry, good store of all that’s nice;
I’m sure you’re very welcome–will you please to take a slice?”
“Oh no, no,” said the little Fly, “kind sir, that cannot be,
I’ve heard what’s in your pantry, and I do not wish to see!”

“Sweet creature!” said the Spider, “you’re witty and you’re wise,
How handsome are your gauzy wings, how brilliant are your eyes!
I’ve a little looking-glass upon my parlour shelf,
If you’ll step in one moment, dear, you shall behold yourself.”
“I thank you, gentle sir,” she said, “for what you’re pleased to say,
And bidding you good morning now, I’ll call another day.”

The Spider turned him round about, and went into his den,
For well he knew the silly Fly would soon come back again:
So he wove a subtle web, in a little corner sly,
And set his table ready, to dine upon the Fly.
Then he came out to his door again, and merrily did sing,
“Come hither, hither, pretty Fly, with the pearl and silver wing;
Your robes are green and purple–there’s a crest upon your head;
Your eyes are like the diamond bright, but mine are dull as lead!”

Alas, alas! how very soon this silly little Fly,
Hearing his wily, flattering words, came slowly flitting by;
With buzzing wings she hung aloft, then near and nearer drew,
Thinking only of her brilliant eyes, and green and purple hue–
Thinking only of her crested head–poor foolish thing! At last,
Up jumped the cunning Spider, and fiercely held her fast.
He dragged her up his winding stair, into his dismal den,
Within his little parlour–but she ne’er came out again!

And now dear little children, who may this story read,
To idle, silly flattering words, I pray you ne’er give heed:
Unto an evil counsellor, close heart and ear and eye,
And take a lesson from this tale, of the Spider and the Fly.

Word Meanings

Vocab-Notes

Word/Phrase	Meaning
Parlour	Small sitting room
Spy	To see or notice
Winding	Twisting or spiralling
Curious	Interesting, unusual
In vain	Useless, without result
Ne’er	Never
Weary	Tired, exhausted
Soaring	Flying high
Curtains	Cloth coverings around a bed
Snugly	Warmly and comfortably
Tuck in	To cover nicely with sheets
Cunning	Clever but deceitful
Affection	Care or love
Pantry	Place where food is kept
Flattering	Praising too much to deceive
Gauzy	Thin, light, see-through
Behold	To look at or see
Den	Dark hidden home
Subtle	Delicate, clever, tricky
Sly	Secretive, hiding something
Hue	Colour
Crested head	Crown-like marking on the head
Dismal	Dark and gloomy
Idle	Useless, pointless
Counsellor	Someone who gives advice
Evil counsellor	Someone who gives bad advice to harm others

Summary

Summary of ‘The Spider and the Fly’

Short Summary (English+Hindi)

The poem “The Spider and the Fly” tells the story of a cunning spider who tricks a foolish fly with sweet words. At first, the fly refuses his offers, but later she is tempted by his flattering words. Finally, she gets trapped and becomes the spider’s meal. The poem teaches children not to trust false praise or the advice of evil people.

कविता “मकड़ी और मक्खी” एक चालाक मकड़ी की कहानी है, जो मीठी-मीठी बातों से एक भोली मक्खी को धोखा देती है। शुरू में मक्खी उसके प्रस्तावों को ठुकरा देती है, लेकिन बाद में उसकी चापलूसी में आ जाती है। अंत में वह मकड़ी के जाल में फँस जाती है और उसका भोजन बन जाती है। कविता बच्चों को यह शिक्षा देती है कि झूठी प्रशंसा या बुरी सलाह पर कभी भरोसा नहीं करना चाहिए।

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Stanza-wise Summary (English + Hindi)

Stanza 1: The Spider invites the Fly into his parlour, calling it pretty and full of interesting things, but the Fly refuses, knowing that whoever goes up his winding stair never comes back.
मकड़ी मक्खी को अपने कमरे (पार्लर) में बुलाती है और कहती है कि यह सुंदर और दिलचस्प चीजों से भरा है, लेकिन मक्खी मना कर देती है क्योंकि उसे पता है कि जो भी उसकी घुमावदार सीढ़ी पर जाता है, वह कभी वापस नहीं आता।

Stanza 2: The Spider offers the Fly a soft bed with curtains and sheets to rest on, but the Fly refuses again, saying that those who sleep on his bed never wake up.
मकड़ी मक्खी को आराम करने के लिए नरम बिस्तर, परदे और चादर का लालच देती है, लेकिन मक्खी फिर मना कर देती है और कहती है कि जो भी उसके बिस्तर पर सोता है, वह कभी जागता नहीं।

Stanza 3: The Spider pretends to be friendly and offers food from his pantry, but the Fly refuses, saying she knows what really happens in his pantry and does not want to go there.
मकड़ी दोस्ती का दिखावा करती है और खाने का लालच देती है, लेकिन मक्खी मना कर देती है और कहती है कि उसे पता है उसकी पेंट्री में क्या होता है और वह वहां नहीं जाना चाहती।

Stanza 4: The Spider flatters the Fly, praising her beauty, wings, and eyes, and offers her a mirror to look at herself, but the Fly thanks him politely and leaves.
मकड़ी मक्खी की सुंदरता, पंख और आँखों की तारीफ़ करती है और उसे दर्पण में खुद को देखने का लालच देती है, लेकिन मक्खी धन्यवाद कहकर चली जाती है।

Stanza 5: The Spider, sure that the Fly will return, weaves his web and prepares to eat her, then sings more praises of her beauty to tempt her again.
मकड़ी, यह सोचकर कि मक्खी लौटेगी, जाल बुनती है और उसे खाने की तैयारी करती है, फिर उसकी सुंदरता की और भी तारीफ़ करके उसे दोबारा लुभाती है।

Stanza 6: The Fly hears his flattering words and, thinking only about her beauty, comes nearer until the Spider suddenly catches her and drags her into his den, from where she never returns.
मक्खी मकड़ी की मीठी बातों में आकर अपनी सुंदरता के बारे में सोचती हुई पास आती है, तभी मकड़ी अचानक उसे पकड़ लेती है और अपने अंधेरे घर में खींच ले जाती है, जहाँ से वह कभी वापस नहीं आती।

Stanza 7: The poet warns children never to listen to false and flattering words, and advises them to learn from the tale of the Spider and the Fly.
कवि बच्चों को चेतावनी देता है कि कभी झूठी और चापलूसी भरी बातों में न आएं और मकड़ी और मक्खी की इस कहानी से सबक लें।

Central Idea

Central Idea of the Poem “The Spider and the Fly”

The poem “The Spider and the Fly” is about a cunning spider who tries to trick a foolish fly with sweet and flattering words. At first, the fly refuses, but finally she is trapped and destroyed. Through this story, the poet teaches us to be careful of false praise and selfish people who try to harm us.

कविता “मकड़ी और मक्खी” एक चालाक मकड़ी के बारे में है जो मीठी और चापलूसी भरी बातों से एक भोली मक्खी को फँसाने की कोशिश करती है। शुरू में मक्खी मना कर देती है, लेकिन अंत में वह उसके जाल में फँस जाती है और नष्ट हो जाती है। इस कथा के माध्यम से कवयित्री हमें सिखाती है कि हमें झूठी प्रशंसा और स्वार्थी लोगों से सावधान रहना चाहिए।

Moral Lessons

Quick Moral & Lessons

Final lesson for children – do not trust flattering words or evil advice; stay aware and wise.

Temptation comes in many forms – curiosity, comfort, food, flattery.

Be cautious of strangers’ praise – not everything sweet is safe.

Vanity and pride can blind you – the Fly ignored danger because she admired her beauty.

Wise refusal saves you – saying no to flattery and tempting offers protects you.

Evil can hide behind kind words – be careful of cunning people.

Temptations

Temptations at a Glance (One-line Memory Points)

Curiosity – The Spider tempts the Fly to see his pretty parlour.

Comfort – He offers a soft bed to rest on.

Food & Affection – He invites her to take food from his pantry.

Flattery – He praises her wings, eyes, and intelligence.

False Humility – He compliments her while pretending to be dull.

Vanity Trap – The Fly admires her beauty and is caught.

Stanza by Stanza and Line by Line Explanation of ‘The Spider and The Fly’

Stanza 1 — Analysis

“Will you walk into my parlour?” said the Spider to the Fly,
“‘Tis the prettiest little parlour that ever you did spy;
The way into my parlour is up a winding stair,
And I have many curious things to shew when you are there.”
“Oh no, no,” said the little Fly, “to ask me is in vain,
For who goes up your winding stair can ne’er come down again.”

1. Overview

The Spider invites (asks to come) the Fly to come into his parlour, describing it as the prettiest little parlour with many curious things to see. The Fly politely refuses because she knows that anyone who goes up the spider’s winding stair never comes down. The stanza sets up the danger and the theme: sweet words can hide a trap.

2. Line-by-line explanation

1. “Will you walk into my parlour?” said the Spider to the Fly,
   The Spider speaks politely and asks the Fly to come into his home.
2. “‘Tis the prettiest little parlour that ever you did spy;
   He praises his parlour, calling it the prettiest place she has ever seen.
3. The way into my parlour is up a winding stair,
   He explains how to reach it — by going up a twisting (spiral) staircase.
4. And I have many curious things to shew when you are there.”
   He promises to show the Fly interesting things once she comes inside.
5. “Oh no, no,” said the little Fly, “to ask me is in vain,
   The Fly politely refuses and says it is useless to ask — she will not go.
6. For who goes up your winding stair can ne’er come down again.”
   The Fly warns that anyone who climbs the stair never returns — it is a trap.

3. Deeper connotations and analysis

• Flattery as a lure: The Spider uses compliments and promises to make the Fly lower her guard.
• False hospitality: Words like “prettiest parlour” and “curious things” make the place sound safe and attractive, but they hide danger.
• Symbolism of the stair: The “winding stair” suggests a path that leads away from safety — once you go up, you cannot come back. It stands for a risky choice that looks easy at first.
• Foreshadowing: The Fly’s warning (“can ne’er come down again”) hints that the Spider is dangerous and that the Fly’s decision later will matter.
• Wisdom of refusal: The Fly knows the danger and refuses, showing caution.
• Hidden danger: The parlour represents a trap that looks attractive but is deadly.
• Voice and lesson: The Fly’s refusal shows common sense; the stanza introduces the moral lesson about listening to caution and not being fooled by smooth talk. Curiosity without wisdom can lead to harm.

4. Notes & Highlights

• Archaic words: ‘Tis (it is), shew (show), ne’er (never) — older spellings/words.
• Form: This stanza has six lines (a sestet).
• Narration style: Much of the stanza is direct speech (dialogue), which makes the scene immediate and easy to follow.
• Tone: Polite but deceptive.

5. Main Idea

The Spider tempts the Fly with curiosity and beauty, but the Fly wisely refuses.

6. Poetic devices

• Rhyme scheme: A A B B C C. Regular end-rhymes (Fly/spy — stair/there — vain/again) give the poem a musical, memorable quality.
• Personification: The Spider and Fly speak like people (line 1)
• Dialogue: Direct speech shows both characters’ voices and builds tension.
• Repetition: “Oh no, no” makes the Fly’s refusal strong and clear.
• Alliteration: “Will you walk (‘w’ sound); “prettiest little parlour” (the ‘p’ sound)
• Imagery / Symbol: “winding stair” creates a clear picture of a path that leads away from safety.
• Foreshadowing: The Fly’s warning that no one comes down prepares the reader for danger.
• Irony: The parlour sounds nice but is a deadly trap.

7. Thought Line:
“Don’t trust sweet words from strangers — they may be hiding harm.”

Vocab-Notes

• Parlour – a small sitting room (but here it is a trap).
• Spy – to see or notice.
• Winding – twisting or spiralling. (Winding stair: suggests mystery and secrecy.)
• Curious – interesting, unusual.
• In vain – useless, without result.
• Ne’er – old word for “never.”

Running Theme

Temptation #1: The Spider tempts the Fly with the offer to see his parlour and curious things.

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Stanza 2 — Analysis

“I’m sure you must be weary, dear, with soaring up so high;
Will you rest upon my little bed?” said the Spider to the Fly.
“There are pretty curtains drawn around; the sheets are fine and thin,
And if you like to rest awhile, I’ll snugly tuck you in!”
“Oh no, no,” said the little Fly, “for I’ve often heard it said,
They never, never wake again, who sleep upon your bed!”

1. Overview

The Spider pretends to care for the Fly, offering her rest on his soft bed with fine sheets and curtains. He describes it as comfortable and safe. The Fly refuses again, saying she has heard that whoever sleeps on his bed never wakes up.

2. Line by line explanation

1. “I’m sure you must be weary, dear, with soaring up so high;”
   The Spider tells the Fly she must be tired from flying so high in the air.
2. “Will you rest upon my little bed?” said the Spider to the Fly.
   He invites her to take rest on his bed.
3. “There are pretty curtains drawn around; the sheets are fine and thin,”
   He describes the bed as having beautiful curtains and soft, thin sheets.
4. “And if you like to rest awhile, I’ll snugly tuck you in!”
   He offers to make her comfortable by covering her nicely while she rests.
5. “Oh no, no,” said the little Fly, “for I’ve often heard it said,”
   The Fly refuses, saying she has heard warnings about this before.
6. “They never, never wake again, who sleep upon your bed!”
   She explains that anyone who sleeps on the Spider’s bed never wakes up — meaning they die.

3. Deeper Meaning and Analysis

• Temptation with hidden danger: Comfort can be a disguise for danger. The Spider offers rest and comfort, but his “bed” is really a trap for killing prey.
• Wisdom of the Fly: The Fly remembers what she has “often heard” — showing that she is cautious and aware of danger.
• Symbolism: The “bed” represents false comfort or pleasure that leads to destruction.
• Theme: The stanza teaches that not every caring offer is genuine; sometimes it hides selfish motives.

4. Notes & Highlights

• Repetition: “never, never” shows strong warning and fear.
• Tone: The Spider speaks sweetly, but the Fly’s tone is cautious.
• Contrast: The Spider describes beauty and comfort, while the Fly speaks of death.

5. Main Idea

The Spider tempts the Fly with the comfort of his bed, but the Fly wisely refuses, knowing it leads to death. Do not accept attractive offers of comfort from those who may harm you.

6. Poetic Tools

• Dialogue: Keeps the poem dramatic and story-like.
• Imagery: “Pretty curtains” and “fine sheets” create a picture of a cosy bed.
• Repetition: “no, no”; “Never, never” adds emphasis to make the points stronger.
• Irony: The bed sounds peaceful, but it is actually dangerous.
• Alliteration: ‘soaring up so high’ – (‘s’ sound)

7. Thought Line

“Comfort offered by the wrong (cunning) person can be a deadly trap (hidden danger in the name of comfort).”

Vocab-Notes

• Weary – tired, exhausted.
• Soaring – flying high.
• Curtains – cloth coverings around a bed.
• Snugly – warmly and comfortably.
• Tuck in – to cover nicely with sheets.

Running Theme

Temptation #2: The Spider tempts the Fly with rest and comfort on his soft bed.

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Stanza 3 — Analysis

Said the cunning Spider to the Fly, “Dear friend what can I do,
To prove the warm affection I’ve always felt for you?
I have within my pantry, good store of all that’s nice;
I’m sure you’re very welcome–will you please to take a slice?”
“Oh no, no,” said the little Fly, “kind sir, that cannot be,
I’ve heard what’s in your pantry, and I do not wish to see!”

1. Overview

The Spider tries another trick: He offers the Fly food from his pantry, claiming it is all nice and plentiful. He also pretends to show affection, saying he cares for her. The Fly refuses again, saying she knows what lies inside his pantry and wants nothing to do with it.

2. Line by line explanation

1. “Said the cunning Spider to the Fly, ‘Dear friend what can I do,”
   The Spider, being clever and tricky, calls the Fly his “dear friend” and asks what he can do for her.
2. “To prove the warm affection I’ve always felt for you?”
   He claims he has always cared for her and wants to show (prove) his affection.
3. “I have within my pantry, good store of all that’s nice;”
   He tells her that in his pantry (food storage), he has plenty of tasty things.
4. “I’m sure you’re very welcome–will you please to take a slice?”
   He invites the Fly warmly to come and eat from his food.
5. “‘Oh no, no,’ said the little Fly, ‘kind sir, that cannot be,”
   The Fly refuses politely, saying she cannot accept the offer.
6. “I’ve heard what’s in your pantry, and I do not wish to see!'”
   She adds that she knows what’s really in his pantry (dead insects), and she does not even want to look inside.

3. Deeper Meaning and Analysis

• False affection/friendship: The Spider pretends to be caring, but his words are only meant to trick.
• Greed as temptation: Offering food is another way to lure the Fly, symbolising worldly temptations.
• Fly’s wisdom: She avoids the trap again, showing knowledge of danger. She remembers warnings she has heard and trusts her knowledge.
• Symbolism: The pantry symbolises hidden danger beneath an attractive offer.

4. Notes & Highlights

• Word choice: “Cunning Spider” shows his clever but dishonest nature.
• Tone: Spider uses sweet, friendly words, but the Fly stays cautious.
• Contrast: Spider speaks of “warm affection” and “good store,” but the Fly exposes the truth.

5. Main Idea

The Spider tempts the Fly with food and affection, but she wisely refuses, aware of the danger. Do not be fooled by false kindness or attractive offers that hide danger.

6. Poetic Tools

• Personification: Spider and Fly talk like people.
• Dialogue: Keeps the tone dramatic and like a story.
• Imagery: “Good store of all that’s nice” gives a picture of tempting food.
• Alliteration: ‘felt for’ (‘f’ sound)
• Irony: The pantry is said to be full of “all that’s nice,” but it actually contains death.
• Epithet: “Cunning Spider” – describes the Spider’s nature in one phrase.

7. Thought Line

“Not every gift or offer (like food, money, affection/friendship) is given with good intentions.”

Vocab-Notes

• Cunning – clever in a tricky or dishonest way
• Affection – feeling of love or care
• Pantry – a small room or cupboard for storing food
• Good store – a large supply
• Slice – a small piece of food

Running Theme

Temptation #3: The Spider tempts the Fly with food and fake affection.

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Stanza 4 — Analysis

“Sweet creature!” said the Spider, “you’re witty and you’re wise,
How handsome are your gauzy wings, how brilliant are your eyes!
I’ve a little looking-glass upon my parlour shelf,
If you’ll step in one moment, dear, you shall behold yourself.”
“I thank you, gentle sir,” she said, “for what you’re pleased to say,
And bidding you good morning now, I’ll call another day.”

1. Overview

The Spider now changes his trick. He begins flattering the Fly’s beauty, praising her wings and eyes. He also tempts her with a mirror in his parlour so she can admire herself. The Fly thanks him politely but avoids entering and promises to come another time.

2. Line by line explanation

1. “Sweet creature!” said the Spider, “you’re witty and you’re wise,”
   The Spider calls the Fly sweet and praises her for being clever and wise.
2. “How handsome are your gauzy wings, how brilliant are your eyes!”
   He admires her thin, delicate wings and her bright, shining eyes.
3. “I’ve a little looking-glass upon my parlour shelf,”
   He says he has a mirror kept on a shelf in his room.
4. “If you’ll step in one moment, dear, you shall behold yourself.”
   He invites the Fly to come inside and see her own beauty in the mirror.
5. “I thank you, gentle sir,” she said, “for what you’re pleased to say,”
   The Fly politely thanks the Spider for his kind words.
6. “And bidding you good morning now, I’ll call another day.”
   She says goodbye and promises to visit another time, without entering.

3. Deeper Meaning and Analysis

• Temptation through vanity: The Spider now plays on the Fly’s pride, praising her looks.
• Flattery as a weapon: He uses sweet compliments to weaken her cautious nature.
• Mirror as a symbol: The mirror represents self-admiration or vanity, which can blind one to danger.
• Fly’s response: She is polite and slightly tempted but still she is aware and manages to resist—for now.

4. Notes & Highlights

• “Gauzy wings”: Gauzy means thin, delicate, and almost transparent.
• Politeness: Both the Spider and the Fly speak gently, hiding the danger beneath.
• Shift in strategy: From offering things (home, bed, food) to offering praise.

5. Main Idea

Beware of flattery; too much praise can make one blind to hidden dangers – the Fly wisely avoids it for now.

6. Poetic Tools

• Alliteration: “How handsome ” (‘h’ sound); “witty… and wise” (‘w’ sound)
• Imagery: Description of gauzy wings and brilliant eyes paints a clear picture.
• Metaphor: The mirror symbolises vanity.
• Personification: The Spider talks and plans like a human.

7. Thought Line

“Flattery can be more dangerous than gifts or comfort.”

Vocab-Notes

• Sweet creature – kind and lovely being
• Witty – clever with words or ideas
• Wise – showing intelligence and good sense
• Gauzy – thin, light, and see-through
• Looking-glass – an old word for mirror
• Behold – to look at or see

Running Theme

Temptation #4: The Spider tempts the Fly with flattery and vanity (praise of beauty and the chance to see herself in the mirror).

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Stanza 5 — Analysis

The Spider turned him round about, and went into his den,
For well he knew the silly Fly would soon come back again:
So he wove a subtle web, in a little corner sly,
And set his table ready, to dine upon the Fly.
Then he came out to his door again, and merrily did sing,
“Come hither, hither, pretty Fly, with the pearl and silver wing;
Your robes are green and purple–there’s a crest upon your head;
Your eyes are like the diamond bright, but mine are dull as lead!”

1. Overview

The Spider, confident that the Fly will return, prepares his trap by weaving his web and setting his table for a meal. Then he comes out and begins to sing happily, praising the Fly’s beauty even more — her wings, clothes, head, and eyes — while humbly calling himself dull in comparison.

2. Line by line explanation

1. “The Spider turned him round about, and went into his den,”
   The Spider went back into his dark home (den).
2. “For well he knew the silly Fly would soon come back again:”
   He was sure the foolish Fly would return.
3. “So he wove a subtle web, in a little corner sly,”
   He quietly wove a fine and clever web in a hidden corner.
4. “And set his table ready, to dine upon the Fly.”
   He prepared to eat the Fly once she was caught.
5. “Then he came out to his door again, and merrily did sing,”
   He came back to his doorway and happily sang to attract the Fly.
6. “‘Come hither, hither, pretty Fly, with the pearl and silver wing;”
   He called the Fly to come closer, praising her wings that looked like pearl and silver.
7. “Your robes are green and purple–there’s a crest upon your head;”
   He praised her colourful body (robes) and the crest (crown-like marking) on her head.
8. “Your eyes are like the diamond bright, but mine are dull as lead!”
   He compared her shining eyes to diamonds while saying his own were dull like lead (a heavy grey metal).

3. Deeper Meaning and Analysis

• Confidence of evil: The Spider is certain his flattery will win over the Fly.
• Preparation for harm: His weaving of the web and setting of the table show cold planning.
• Flattery grows stronger: Now he praises the Fly’s wings, clothes, head, and eyes — exaggerating her beauty.
• False humility: By calling himself dull, the Spider pretends to be humble to make his praise more believable.
• Symbolism: The “subtle web” represents hidden dangers carefully planned by the cunning.

4. Notes & Highlights

• “Subtle web”: Subtle means fine, delicate, but also tricky.
• Contrast: The Spider’s cheerful singing hides his evil plan.
• Mood: The stanza shifts between quiet plotting (web weaving) and loud false praise (singing).

5. Main Idea

The Spider prepares his deadly trap while using flattery to make the Fly careless.

6. Poetic Devices

• Imagery: Descriptions of wings, robes, crest, and eyes create vivid pictures.
• Simile: “Your eyes are like the diamond bright.”
• Contrast/Irony: The Spider sings merrily while planning death.
• Personification: The Fly is described with human-like clothing (“robes”).
• Anaphora: last two lines start with ‘Your’

7. Thought Line

“Evil often hides behind cheerful words and false praise.”

Vocab-Notes

• Den – dark hidden home
• Silly – foolish, not wise
• Subtle – delicate, clever, tricky
• Sly – secretive, hiding something
• Hither – an old word meaning “come here”
• Robes – clothes or covering
• Crest – a crown-like marking or decoration on the head
• Lead – a heavy, dull, grey metal

Running Theme

Temptation #5: The Spider flatters the Fly with praise of her beauty and sings sweetly, while secretly preparing his trap.

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Stanza 6 — Analysis

Alas, alas! how very soon this silly little Fly,
Hearing his wily, flattering words, came slowly flitting by;
With buzzing wings she hung aloft, then near and nearer drew,
Thinking only of her brilliant eyes, and green and purple hue–
Thinking only of her crested head–poor foolish thing! At last,
Up jumped the cunning Spider, and fiercely held her fast.
He dragged her up his winding stair, into his dismal den,
Within his little parlour–but she ne’er came out again!

1. Overview

The Fly, fooled by the Spider’s flattering words, slowly comes back. She keeps thinking only about her own beauty — her bright eyes, colourful body, and crested head. While she is lost in pride, the Spider suddenly jumps, catches her tightly, and drags her into his dark den. Sadly, she never comes out again.

2. Line by line explanation

• “Alas, alas! how very soon this silly little Fly,”
  Sadly, the foolish Fly quickly returned.
• “Hearing his wily, flattering words, came slowly flitting by;”
  She listened to the Spider’s tricky, praising words and slowly flew back.
• “With buzzing wings she hung aloft, then near and nearer drew,”
  She hovered in the air with buzzing wings, then moved closer and closer.
• “Thinking only of her brilliant eyes, and green and purple hue–”
  She was proud of her shiny eyes and colourful body.
• “Thinking only of her crested head–poor foolish thing! At last,”
  She admired her crown-like head and forgot the danger.
• “Up jumped the cunning Spider, and fiercely held her fast.”
  The Spider suddenly leapt and caught her tightly.
• “He dragged her up his winding stair, into his dismal den,”
  He pulled her up the twisted stairway into his dark and gloomy home.
• “Within his little parlour–but she ne’er came out again!”
  He carried her into his room, and she never came out alive.

3. Deeper Meaning and Analysis

The Fly represents people who become proud and careless because of flattery. The Spider shows how cunning people take advantage of others’ weakness. The Fly’s vanity led to her downfall, teaching us the danger of listening to false praise.

• Victory of deception: The Fly’s weakness (vanity) leads to her capture.
• Pride and downfall: She thought only of her beauty and forgot caution.
• Suddenness of danger: The Spider strikes quickly when the Fly is unguarded.
• Symbolism: The winding stair and dismal den represent the path to destruction once we fall into temptation.
• Moral note: Listening to false praise without wisdom brings harm.

4. Notes & Highlights

• Mood: Starts with pity (“Alas, alas!”) and ends with tragedy (Fly’s death).
• Tone: Warning tone for readers, showing the danger of flattery.
• Contrast: The Fly’s pride in her beauty versus her sad end.
• Theme: Overconfidence and vanity lead to downfall.

5. Main Idea

The Fly falls into the Spider’s trap because she is blinded by her vanity and his flattering words.

6. Poetic Devices

• Repetition: “Thinking only…” shows her obsession with her beauty.
• Exclamation: “Alas, alas!” expresses pity and sadness.
• Imagery: Bright eyes, green and purple colours, crested head, winding stair.
• Contrast/Irony: Beauty and pride lead to death.
• Personification: The Fly shows human weakness — vanity.
• Anaphora: 4th and 5th line start with ‘Thinking only”

7. Thought Line

“Vanity and pride blind us to danger and lead to destruction.”

Vocab-Notes

• Alas – word of sadness or pity
• Wily – clever but tricky
• Flattering – praising too much to fool someone
• Flitting – flying lightly
• Hue – colour
• Crested head – crown-like mark on the head
• Dismal den – dark and gloomy home

Running Theme

Temptation #6: The Fly, blinded by her vanity, falls for the Spider’s flattery and is trapped forever.

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Stanza 7 — Analysis

And now dear little children, who may this story read,
To idle, silly flattering words, I pray you ne’er give heed:
Unto an evil counsellor, close heart and ear and eye,
And take a lesson from this tale, of the Spider and the Fly.

1. Overview

The poet directly addresses the children (the readers) and gives the moral of the story. She warns them not to listen to flattering words or evil advice, and to learn a lesson from the story of the Spider and the Fly.

2. Line by Line Explanation

• “And now dear little children, who may this story read,”: The poet speaks to the children who are reading this poem.
• “To idle, silly flattering words, I pray you ne’er give heed:”: She tells them not to pay attention to useless, foolish, or flattering words.
• “Unto an evil counsellor, close heart and ear and eye,”: She advises them to shut their heart, ears, and eyes to wicked people who give bad advice.
• “And take a lesson from this tale, of the Spider and the Fly.”: She urges them to learn a lesson from the story of the Spider and the Fly.

3. Deeper Meaning and Analysis

• Moral lesson: Flattery and sweet talk can be dangerous traps.
• Warning: Children must be careful and not trust those who try to deceive them with charming words.
• Symbolism: The Spider represents cunning people who trick others; the Fly represents the innocent who fall prey to temptation.
• Direct address: The poet moves away from the story and speaks straight to the readers, showing that the tale is really a lesson for life.

4. Highlights

• Tone: Serious and instructive, unlike earlier playful stanzas.
• Message: Be cautious, don’t be misled by false praise.
• “Evil counsellor”: A person who gives harmful advice or leads others astray.

5. Main Idea

The poet teaches children to beware of flattering words and bad advice, and to learn wisdom from the story of the Spider and the Fly.

6. Poetic Devices

• Direct Address: The poet speaks directly to the readers (“dear little children”).
• Alliteration: “dismal den” – (‘d’ sound)
• Didactic tone: The stanza teaches a moral lesson.
• Symbolism: The Spider = evil tempter; Fly = innocent victim.

7. Thought Line

“Do not trust flattering words — they often hide danger.”

Vocab-Notes:

• Idle: Useless, pointless.
• Silly: Foolish.
• Flattering: Praising too much, often insincerely.
• Counsellor: Someone who advises or guides.
• Evil counsellor: A person who gives bad advice to harm others.

Running Theme

Final Lesson: The poet ends the poem by warning children — never believe idle flattery or evil advice; instead, be wise and careful.

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Poetic & Literary Devices in ‘The Spider and The Fly’

The poet employs rhyme, imagery, personification, simile, alliteration, symbolism, and irony to give the poem a musical quality, create vivid visuals, evoke human emotions, and convey a meaningful moral lesson. These (listed below) are the key poetic devices featured in the poem ‘The Spider and the Fly.’

1. Rhyme Scheme

• The poem is written in rhyming couplets (pairs of lines that rhyme).
• Example: “read / heed”, “eye / Fly”.
  👉 This gives the poem a musical flow.

2. Imagery

• The poet uses words that create pictures in our minds.
• Example: “winding stair,” “pearl and silver wing,” “subtle web.”
  👉 We can imagine the spider’s house, the fly’s wings, and the trap.

3. Personification

• The spider and the fly are given human qualities like speaking, thinking, and feeling.
  👉 This makes the poem more like a story with characters.

4. Alliteration

• Repetition of the same sound at the beginning of nearby words.
• Example:
  1st stanza: “Will you walk (‘w’ sound); “prettiest little parlour” (the ‘p’ sound)
  2nd: ‘soaring up so high’ – (‘s’ sound)
  3rd: ‘felt for’ (‘f’ sound)
  4th: “How handsome ” (‘h’ sound); “witty… and wise” (‘w’ sound)
  7th: “dismal den” – (‘d’ sound)

5. Simile

• A comparison using “like” or “as.”
• Example: “Your eyes are like the diamond bright.”
  👉 The fly’s eyes are compared to shining diamonds.

6. Symbolism

• The spider symbolizes cunning, evil, and temptation.
• The fly symbolizes innocence, foolishness, and carelessness.
  👉 Together they teach a moral lesson about dangers of flattery.

Anaphora:

• (5th stanza) – last two lines start with ‘Your’
• (6th stanza) – 4th and 5th line start with ‘Thinking only”

7. Irony

• The spider speaks sweetly but hides evil plans.
  👉 His cheerful tone contrasts with his cruel intentions.

8. Tone and Mood

• The tone is playful but warning.
• The mood shifts from light (conversation) to dark (death of the fly).

9. Moral / Didactic Element

• The poem is didactic, meaning it teaches a lesson.
  👉 The moral is: Don’t trust flattery; be careful of false friends.

Metaphor in ‘The Spider and the Fly’

In “The Spider and the Fly,” metaphor is used in an indirect way:

• The spider is not just a real spider — it is a metaphor for cunning, selfish people who trick others with sweet words.
• The fly is a metaphor for innocent, careless people who get trapped because they listen to flattery.
• The spider’s web works like a metaphor for traps or dangers in real life, which look harmless but are deadly.

👉 So, while there are no strong “line-by-line” metaphors, the whole poem itself is a big metaphor for the dangers of flattery and false friendship.

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Analysis of ‘The Spider and the Fly’

Theme / Central Idea: The poem warns against flattery, temptation, and false friends. It teaches children to be cautious, wise, and not fall for sweet words or selfish advice.

Characters / Symbolism:

• Spider: Symbolizes cunning, evil, and deception.
• Fly: Symbolizes innocence, naivety, and carelessness.
• Spider’s web: Represents hidden danger or traps in life.

Tone / Mood: The tone is playful at first but gradually becomes cautionary and serious. The mood shifts from light-hearted conversation to suspense and danger.

Poetic Devices: Rhyme, imagery, personification, alliteration, simile, symbolism, irony, and didactic tone.

Structure: Written in rhyming couplets, giving a musical, story-like flow suitable for children.

Moral / Lesson: Always be careful of flattery, temptation, and selfish people. Think before trusting others, no matter how kind or charming they seem.

Overall: The poem is a clever blend of storytelling, moral teaching, and vivid imagery, making it both entertaining and educational for children.

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‘The Spider and the Fly’ Poem CLQs (Competency Learning Questions) #SirjiCLQs

Practice Set – 1 (Subjective Questions)

1. What is the main message or moral of the poem? (Learning: Moral Awareness)

The poem warns against flattery and false friends. It teaches children to be cautious, wise, and not trust sweet words from selfish people.

2. How does the poet create a sense of suspense in the poem? (Learning: Analytical Thinking)

The suspense is built through the spider’s cunning words, repeated attempts to lure the fly, and the gradual movement from conversation to trap.

3. How are the characters symbolic in the poem? (Learning: Symbolic Understanding)

The spider symbolizes cunning and evil, the fly symbolizes innocence, and the spider’s web represents hidden dangers or traps.

4. How does the poet use literary devices to enhance the poem? (Learning: Literary Appreciation)

Rhyme, imagery, similes, personification, alliteration, and symbolism make the poem vivid, musical, and help convey the moral clearly.

5. Why does the fly initially refuse the spider’s offers, and why does she eventually fall into the trap? (Learning: Critical Thinking)

Initially, the fly is cautious and aware of danger. Later, her vanity and attraction to flattery make her careless, showing how pride and temptation can cloud judgment.

6. What is the tone of the poem, and how does it change? (Learning: Tone and Mood Recognition)

The tone starts playful and conversational but gradually becomes cautionary and serious as danger becomes clear.

7. How can this poem be related to real-life situations? (Learning: Application to Life)

Like the fly, people can be tricked by sweet words or false promises. It teaches us to be careful and make wise decisions.

8. How does the poem teach a lesson through storytelling? (Learning: Moral Interpretation)

The poet tells a story with characters and events, showing the consequences of the fly’s actions. Children learn the moral indirectly through the story.

9. Why is this poem suitable for children? (Learning: Child-Friendly Literature)

It uses simple language, rhyme, and a story format, making it engaging while also teaching an important life lesson about caution and wisdom.

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Practice Set – 2 (Objective Questions with MCQS)

Part A: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. Who invited the fly into the parlour?
   A) The Bee
   B) The Spider
   C) The Ant
   D) The Butterfly
   Answer: B) The Spider
2. Why did the fly refuse the spider’s first invitation?
   A) She was not hungry
   B) She was afraid of the winding stair
   C) She did not like the parlour
   D) She wanted to play
   Answer: B) She was afraid of the winding stair
3. What did the spider offer the fly in the second stanza?
   A) A mirror
   B) Food
   C) A soft bed with curtains
   D) A treasure chest
   Answer: C) A soft bed with curtains
4. What is the spider a symbol of?
   A) Wisdom
   B) Kindness
   C) Cunning and deception
   D) Happiness
   Answer: C) Cunning and deception
5. Why did the fly finally come close to the spider?
   A) She was hungry
   B) She wanted to see the web
   C) She was flattered by his praise
   D) She was lost
   Answer: C) She was flattered by his praise
6. What is the main lesson of the poem?
   A) Always listen to strangers
   B) Don’t trust flattery or false friends
   C) Eat whatever is offered to you
   D) Sleep well to stay healthy
   Answer: B) Don’t trust flattery or false friends
7. How does the poet make the poem interesting for children?
   A) By using rhyme, story, and personification
   B) By giving numbers and dates
   C) By adding difficult words
   D) By using only pictures
   Answer: A) By using rhyme, story, and personification
8. What happened to the fly in the end?
   A) She escaped
   B) She became friends with the spider
   C) She got trapped and eaten by the spider
   D) She flew away happily
   Answer: C) She got trapped and eaten by the spider
9. What does the “subtle web” symbolize?
   A) Beauty
   B) Hidden danger or trap
   C) Friendship
   D) Strength
   Answer: B) Hidden danger or trap
10. The tone of the poem is:
    A) Sad and depressing
    B) Playful and cautionary
    C) Angry and rude
    D) Romantic and happy
    Answer: B) Playful and cautionary

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Part B: Fill-in-the-Blanks with Options

1. The Spider invited the Fly into his _________.

• i) bedroom
• ii) parlour
• iii) kitchen
  Answer: ii) parlour

2. The Fly refused the Spider’s first invitation because she was afraid of the _________.

• i) winding stair
• ii) web
• iii) bed
  Answer: i) winding stair

3. The Spider offered the Fly a _________ with pretty curtains.

• i) bed
• ii) mirror
• iii) chair
  Answer: i) bed

4. The Fly was finally trapped because she was flattered by her _________.

• i) wings and eyes
• ii) food
• iii) web
  Answer: i) wings and eyes

5. “Your eyes are like ________ bright,” said the Spider.

• i) diamonds
• ii) pearls
• iii) gold
  Answer: i) diamonds

6. The Fly never woke again because she slept upon the Spider’s _________.

• i) bed
• ii) table
• iii) web
  Answer: i) bed

7. The poem teaches children to be _________ and not fall for false praise.

• i) careful
• ii) lazy
• iii) playful
  Answer: i) careful

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Part C: Match the Columns

Column A	Column B
1. Spider	a) Innocent and naive character
2. Fly	b) Trap or danger
3. Spider’s web	c) Cunning and deceptive character
4. Moral	d) Don’t trust flattery or false friends

Answer:
1 → c
2 → a
3 → b
4 → d

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