Laws, like spiders' webs, are wrought, Large flies break through, the small are caught.

Understand the thought

Meaning in plain English

The spider’s-web comparison criticises rules that catch the less powerful while allowing powerful people to escape their effects. It raises a question about unequal accountability, rather than proving that every institution works this way or settling a particular legal allegation.

What the words are saying

Large flies break through the web while small ones are caught, making unequal force the centre of the image. Figuratively, a rule may appear universal but be applied differently according to influence or resources. A useful reading asks which decisions show the difference and what would make the standard fairer. The saying is a criticism to examine, not evidence by itself. It does not mean accountability is pointless or that anyone accused is necessarily powerless or innocent. The web image can direct attention towards the consistency of a process while still requiring a careful account of the particular facts, exceptions and responsibilities involved.

Everyday example

An association reviews why a late fee was waived for an influential member but imposed on others in the same circumstances, and publishes one consistent policy.

When to use it

Use it when comparable cases appear to receive different treatment according to power or influence.

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Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.