"Kicking over traces" is an idiomatic expression that originates from the vocabulary of horseback riding and harness racing. It is commonly used to describe a situation where an individual deviates from expected or proper behavior, challenging established norms or limitations. This phrase alludes to the act of a horse lifting its leg higher than necessary, throwing its foot against the harness traces, which are the leather straps used to connect the horse to a carriage or plow.
Metaphorically, "kicking over traces" refers to an act of rebellion, disobedience, or going beyond prescribed boundaries. It implies a disregard for rules, societal expectations, or restrictive conventions, often motivated by a desire for personal freedom or independence. By straying from the established path, individuals who kick over traces aim to assert their autonomy, challenge authority, or explore uncharted territories. This expression typically connotes a sense of breaking free from imposed limitations and can be associated with acts of defiance and nonconformity.
Moreover, "kicking over traces" can also imply a departure from one's comfort zone or usual routine, embracing new experiences or unconventional choices. It suggests a departure from conformity, seeking adventure, change, or the pursuit of unconventional goals. This idiomatic expression is commonly used in informal conversations, literature, and metaphorical contexts to convey actions or behaviors that defy societal norms and expectations, often highlighting the courage, unpredictability, or rebelliousness of individuals unwilling to conform.
