The phrase "As flies to wanton boys..." is a literary reference, and in this context, it's being used to describe someone who is controlling or cruel—like a puppet-master.
Here’s the full line being referenced:
"As flies to wanton boys are we to the gods; they kill us for their sport."
– William Shakespeare, King Lear (Act 4, Scene 1)
Meaning of the quote:
In King Lear, the character Gloucester is saying that human beings (like him) are as powerless as flies, and the gods are like cruel, careless children who destroy them for fun. "Wanton boys" means reckless or mischievous boys, and the comparison paints a picture of powerlessness and suffering at the hands of those with power who don’t care.
In your sentence:
‘A puppet-master. “As flies to wanton boys . . .”’ Cleo was an English teacher and it slipped out sometimes.
"A puppet-master" suggests someone pulling strings, controlling others, possibly in a manipulative or powerful way.
By quoting Shakespeare, Cleo is implying that people are being manipulated or hurt by someone powerful, just like flies being toyed with by cruel children.
It also adds a literary, slightly dramatic flavor to her comment—fitting for someone who’s an English teacher and prone to quoting classics.
Overall meaning:
Cleo is likening someone's manipulative or god-like behavior to Shakespeare’s idea that powerful figures treat others like playthings—cruelly and without care.
