The poem starts with a conversation between the spider and the fly. The spider requests the fly to visit him in his parlor because it is a beautiful place ever. The fly knows she is being trapped and rejects the request and tells him that nobody has gone to that parlor and comes out. The spider uses another tactic to lure the fly. This time he assures her of security and alludes that the fly must be tired and she needs a place to rest. But the fly seems to know every trick of the spider and tells him that whoever goes to his bed never wakes up.
The spider keeps on persisting and calls the fly his friend. The spider is cunning and tricky and offers the fly good food. Being aware of the spider’s tricks, the fly rejects the offer. The spider never gives up and starts complimenting the fly calling her witty and wise. The fly does not buy into the spider’s story and appreciates him for the compliments and assures him that she will visit him another day. The compliments and flattering words appeal to the fly, and she draws near the spider’s home.
When the fly draws near the spider’s home, he holds her tightly and drags her to his den. After getting into the parlor, the fly does not come out again. The author ends her story by warning little children against flattering words. The narrator advises the children to learn from this story of the spider and the fly. Children and everyone should not repeat the mistake committed by the fly. Sweet words have consequences.
