2. Interpret What might keep the cat from returning home? What might the image of a "constellation of fireflies flickering" represent to the speaker?

Her opportunity to decide If she wants to be free or not might keep the cat from returning home. The image of a "constellation of fireflies flickering" represents the tempting moment of choosing her path.

Explanation: When the owner of the cat calls for her name, she lifts her hears and looks at her home, but then looks up to see the "constellation of fireflies flickering" (a metaphor of that enticing and fleeting moment when you have the opportunity to choose your own path in life). The cat might be hesitating on returning home because, although she loves her owner, the cat knows coming back would keep her tied, and she has now the chance to break free and follow her independent nature.