I did not know what to expect from Beyonce’s newest album, "Lemonade." I just knew it would be different, and different it certainly was. I gathered around a friend’s TV to watch the visual album on HBO. The album is a lot to take in during one sitting filled with intricate imagery and complex lyrics.

Before and after each song, puzzling spoken word can be heard giving the album a confusing and dark tone. It gives off the impression that something is not right, yet, you are still anxiously anticipating more. The poetry that is recited comes from Somali-British poet Warsan Shire. Many of her spoken word pieces can found on YouTube. The album indicates the ups and downs of married life in a somewhat angry and depressing fashion. However the conclusion is that she is making lemonade out of the lemons life has given her.

The album features many famous faces including Beyonce's husband, Jay-Z, Zendaya, and Serena Williams. WIlliams is featured in the upbeat track "Sorry" but Beyonce is unapologetic in this song. There are also models and all sorts of New Orleans standouts. The album makes a political statement towards the movement for Black Lives with appearances from the mothers of Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner, and Michael Brown. All three young men have lost their lives to police brutality.

The album gives insight to the lives of black youth and black families. History between parents and children in the south. Her song “Daddy Lessons” combines blues and country roots perhaps signifying her father’s Texas roots. The album can also be a reflection for many black woman with southern roots.

I cannot pretend to interpret the meaning of each visual. Whether or not the works are based on religious or sacrilegious foundations. Many of these interprations are left up to the viewer.

Either way, her work of art leaves you with a lot to think about and will definitely spark up conversation.