Yes, I think I see the light now...I am studying these answers and am learning! Interesting! The proverb is quite clear! Many thanks for leading me to this understanding...Whew!
If you have finally completed the grid you will see that the first word in the theme runs from the centre of 37a diagonally to the start of 26d.
I really do urge you to master ordinary cryptic crosswords and then move up to tackle the more advanced ones. You will have much more satisfaction solving them on your own & with a bit of help here.