When author and poet Aubrey Barnes, also known as Mister Aubs., began writing his latest book, I Took The Wrong Path, it wasn’t with a clear plan or title in mind. What he did have, though, was a deep well of grief and reflection, sparked by the death of a loved one. Over time, that grief transformed into a collection of heartfelt poems exploring loss, resilience, and humanity. It was released on April 11th, 2024 and on its debut, the book is not just a testament to Barnes’ personal healing but also a powerful companion for anyone navigating their own emotional mazes.
If you’ve wondered how creativity, grief, and the human experience intertwine, Barnes’ latest work offers a raw yet hopeful perspective. Here’s an inside look at the interview on CEI THE PODCAST where Mister Aubs shared his insights into the book, his creative process, and what he hopes readers will gain from his words.
The Genesis of I Took The Wrong Path
Barnes describes I Took The Wrong Path as a deeply personal exploration of grief. Inspired by the loss of his sibling, the book maps his winding emotional journey, including the mistakes, missteps, and eventual revelations that shaped him.
One pivotal inspiration for the book’s title arrived serendipitously during a conversation with a friend, Jim. “He said something profound—that there’s no good or bad path in life, just different ones. The real misstep is standing still, refusing to move forward,” Barnes recalls. That idea evolved into a recurring theme in his writing—not a story of suffering, but one of movement, even if imperfect or painful.
Barnes began writing the book just months after his sibling’s passing, as a way to process emotions he couldn’t rationalize. “You can’t outthink grief,” he states. “You just have to feel it and allow yourself to move through it. That’s what this book is about.”
Grief, Creativity, and Healing
For Barnes, creativity became less about observation and more about embodiment. He had always been a writer who explored the world from a distance, observing through a lens of analysis. But grief demanded something different from him.
“It taught me to fully embody my feelings,” Barnes says. “I had to accept emotions as they came, without trying to rationalize them. Writing allowed me to confront sadness, anger, and even joy in ways I’d never done before.”
This shift in his creative voice is central to this collection. The poems in I Took The Wrong Path move beyond observation and analysis. They sit shoulder to shoulder with raw emotions, offering a lens of authenticity that resonates deeply with readers.
Barnes also hopes his book normalizes vulnerability among Black men, a demographic often conditioned to suppress feelings of grief and pain. “For me, crying isn’t weakness; it’s humanity. And through this book, I want others to feel like it’s okay to be human, to sit with their emotions.” this sentiment is reflected on merchandise that he sells on his website that simply states “Brother, You Can Cry”. It is accompanied by an illustration brought to life by Moline, IL. artist Laniya Miranda. According to the website, the design is brought to life by her artistic style in a beautiful collaboration advocating on behalf of emotional acceptance within marginalized communities.
The Role of Music and Mentorship
Barnes credits the creative energy of artists like Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, and Gil Scott-Heron for guiding him through the writing process. Their music and personal struggles reflected in their art helped him connect with his own emotions and storytelling.
He also worked with mentors like poet Ephraim Nehemiah, who helped refine his creative voice. Together, they worked to bridge the gap between the observational writer Barnes once was and the deeply personal expression that his grief demanded. “He showed me how to bring myself fully into my work,” Barnes reflects. “This book wouldn’t exist without those moments of mentorship.”
What Readers Can Expect
The heart of I Took The Wrong Path lies in its ability to make grief accessible and relatable. Through poems like “Judas Prayer” and “Trauma Wounds,” Barnes strips away any pretense, writing with raw honesty and vulnerability. His words don’t sugarcoat the pain of loss, but they also offer a glimpse of hope, a reminder that healing is possible—even if imperfect.
The book doesn’t shy away from heavy themes. But for every moment of darkness, there is also light. Silver linings weave their way into many of the poems, reflecting conversations Barnes had with sixth graders during his educational outreach projects. “Those kids taught me to snap out of my sadness and stay present,” Barnes explains. “They reminded me that even in heavy moments, joy is still possible.”
A Broader Mission
Beyond telling his personal story, Barnes sees I Took The Wrong Path as a resource for mental health and emotional resilience. He hopes to inspire readers to confront their own grief and find peace in the chaos.
“I want this book to be a companion,” he says. “Something that reminds you it’s okay to feel lost but also motivates you to keep moving forward. The wrong path isn’t necessarily the end. It’s just another step in the human experience.”
Why This Book Matters to Poets and Writers
For aspiring poets and writers, Barnes emphasizes an important lesson he learned along the way: perfection isn’t the goal. “Just start. Don’t get stuck chasing perfection. The raw, imperfect moments often speak the loudest,” he advises.
He also stresses the importance of leaning on creativity as both a tool for self-expression and a means of connection. “Whether you’re writing poetry, crafting a novel, or penning a song, vulnerability is what turns art into something timeless.”
Final Thoughts and Next Steps
The release of I Took The Wrong Path isn’t just a milestone in Aubrey Barnes’ career; it’s an open invitation. It invites readers to confront their feelings, to share their vulnerabilities, and to connect through the shared messiness of being human.
Looking ahead, Barnes plans to share his book globally and continue spreading messages of mental well-being and creative expression through educational projects. But for now, he encourages his readers to engage deeply with the work and, most importantly, with themselves.
Take the first step on your path
I Took The Wrong Path released on April 11th, 2024. Orders and additional details can be found at www.misteraubs.com. Follow Mister Aubs on Instagram @misteraubs for updates on the release and upcoming projects.
Whether you’re grieving, writing, or simply seeking inspiration, this book is here to remind you that every path you take has a purpose.
