fiddling while rome burns

The phrase "fiddling while Rome burns" is an idiomatic expression that refers to someone engaging in trivial activities or being unconcerned about a crisis or serious issue occurring around them. It originates from the historical event where Roman Emperor Nero allegedly played the fiddle during the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD, showing indifference towards the destruction of the city. Thus, the phrase signifies someone displaying a lack of urgency or prioritizing insignificant matters while important problems or disasters are unfolding.