The idiom is a metaphor that means someone is focusing on small details and missing the bigger picture. It's been used for centuries and likely originated in folk wisdom rather than being coined by a specific author.
Here's why it's hard to trace the origin:
* Folklore: Many idioms and proverbs are passed down orally for generations, making it impossible to pinpoint a single origin.
* Similar Phrases: The concept of being too focused on details has been expressed in various ways throughout history.
Even though the origin is unclear, the meaning of the phrase remains universally understood, highlighting the importance of seeing the bigger picture.
