In A.S. Byatt's novel "Possession," the quote suggests that poets are not bound to the comfort and security of traditional homes. Instead, they thrive in the wildness of nature, represented by heaths and wandering hounds. This imagery emphasizes the idea that poets seek freedom and inspiration from the untamed world around them rather than domesticity.

This perspective on poets highlights a fundamental truth about creativity. It suggests that true artistic expression often comes from exploring the unknown and embracing life's unpredictability. Byatt's words evoke a contrast between a settled existence and the adventurous spirit that drives poets to seek their muse beyond the confines of a conventional home.