How OutKast’s Aquemini Helped Me Write a Poetry Collection for My Wife

It’s her and I, Aquemini…Er, we’re both Gemini’s actually.

Back in 2013, I became inspired to do something extraordinary for my wife. When I decide to give my wife gifts, I strive to really think outside the box. During the month of November, I began listening to Outkast’s 1998 album, Aquemini.

I remember thinking to myself, “I want to write like this.”

During my intense listening, I gave focused attention to line structure, recurring themes, writing styles, delivery method, word choice and placement, and figurative language. Thematically, the project is very consistent. I wanted the book to be the same way.

It became a euphoric experience. This album was the solution dissolving the concentrated base of creativity; its elements mixing and swirling with my own writing juices to pour out the title in the image above, “Q” the Emotions (disclosure: this is a link to the ebook version).

Part I: The Music and Me

Outkast’s intricacies of their song writing was captivating. I realized I highly under estimated their junior effort. There’s something that needs to be celebrated about the chemistry between the lyrics and instrumentation.