ChatGPT as a Fiction Writer’s Tool by Mark H. Phillips

ChatGPT (Generative Pre-Trained Transformer) is a chatbot AI that mimics human conversation. It has been trained by reinforcement learning from human feedback (RLHF). The AIs are learning to respond intelligently by having millions of humans check their output to weed out the ridiculous or unsatisfactory. Millions of low-paid workers in places like Kenya and Nepal are grading routine output. Trained experts all over the world can make a lot of money grading ChatGPT’s answers to medical, legal, and creative writing prompts.

As it relates to creative writing, another way ChatGPT learns is by absorbing billions of writing samples. Margaret Atwood was one of 8,000 authors who signed a recent open letter demanding that the major AI developers stop training their bots using her work without permission or compensation. That should fix that problem.

A year ago, a company called OpenAI released ChatGPT to the public. Its free version is based on ChatGPT 3.5. ChatGPT Plus is based on the more powerful ChatGPT 4 and costs $20/month. ChatGPT is currently being used by 140 million users and brings in about $80 million/month. OpenAI is about to sell shares in an IPO for an expected valuation of $80-$90 billion. It has several competitors: Google’s Bard, Microsoft’s Bing Chat, and Meta’s LLaMA. The People’s Republic of China has banned ChatGPT, citing it as an attempt at propaganda by the U.S., and rushed its own version, Baidu’s Ernie Bot, to market in order to present the unvarnished truth to the world. The PRC is also spending a lot of effort in developing military AI. To counter that effort, Scale is developing Donovan for our military, to analyze classified data, pilot autonomous combat robots, ships, planes, and drones, as well as give tactical advice to commanders during battle. Donovan sounds so much more friendly than Skynet.

Today I want to talk about how ChatGPT might affect the profession of creative writing. Kindle has instituted a limit on the number of books an individual can publish in a single day. The limit is now three. Who is publishing more than three books per day such that this rule was thought necessary? Individuals who use AIs such as ChatGPT to generate novels and non-fiction books from their prompts. There are now hundreds of books listed on Amazon that have ChatGPT as a coauthor, and an unknown number more that have concealed the AI contribution. Using art-generating AIs such as DALL-E 3 (also from OpenAI) or Midjourney coupled with text generated by ChatGPT, an author can generate an illustrated children’s book and get it up on Amazon as a Kindle offering in just a few hours. There are more than a few YouTube videos that will talk you through the process of generating an entire novel with ChatGPT’s assistance.

How easy is it to generate a story? Here is my very first interaction with ChatGPT:

Prompt: Write a story of 1000 words about a superhero fighting off an alien invasion.

ChatGPT

In the darkest hours of the night, the city of Metropolis stood bathed in an eerie, silver glow. The moon hung low in the sky, casting long shadows that seemed to stretch into infinity. But it wasn’t the moon causing this unearthly illumination. It was the arrival of an alien armada, descending upon the city with a menacing grace.

The citizens of Metropolis awoke to an otherworldly spectacle. Spaceships of varying sizes and shapes hovered ominously above the city, their lights casting an eerie radiance over the buildings and streets. Panic swept through the city like wildfire as people rushed to their windows and streets, staring up in awe and fear.

Amid the chaos, a figure stood undaunted on a rooftop, surveying the alien fleet. He was a hero, a beacon of hope in these dire times. He was known as Stellarion, a man with powers beyond the comprehension of ordinary mortals. He possessed the ability to harness the energy of the stars, granting him incredible strength, agility, and a mastery of celestial forces. Tonight, Metropolis needed him more than ever.

Stellarion leaped into action, soaring into the sky with a graceful burst of energy. He made his way toward the largest alien vessel, a colossal metallic monstrosity that crackled with energy. As he neared it, he unleashed a beam of starlight from his fingertips, cutting through the alien hull with ease. The vessel shuddered and exploded, showering the city with fiery debris.

But the aliens were relentless. Their smaller craft swarmed around Stellarion, firing laser beams and energy projectiles. He deftly dodged and weaved through their attacks, countering with bursts of celestial power that disintegrated their ships one by one. The city’s skyline became a battlefield, with the hero fighting to keep Metropolis safe from the invaders.

Down below, the citizens watched in awe and gratitude as Stellarion’s powers blazed across the night sky. The people found strength in his unwavering resolve, and they began to rally together, forming makeshift shelters and aiding those in need. The hero’s actions were a symbol of hope in a city teetering on the brink of despair.

However, as the battle raged on, Stellarion realized that these aliens were not like any he had encountered before. They were not driven by conquest but by desperation. He saw the fear in their strange, otherworldly eyes. They weren’t invaders; they were refugees fleeing from a dying world.

Stellarion paused, hovering in the midst of the chaos. He reached out with his mind, seeking a way to communicate. Through the power of the stars, he projected a message into the minds of the alien beings. “I am Stellarion. I mean you no harm. We can find a way to coexist peacefully. Please, cease this aggression.”

The alien fleet hesitated, their weapons lowering. They communicated amongst themselves, their strange language resonating with an ethereal beauty. After a tense moment, the leader of the aliens, a tall, elegant figure with bioluminescent skin, responded in kind. “We came seeking refuge, but we feared your kind would reject us. Our planet is dying. We only wish to find a new home.”

Stellarion, with compassion in his heart, extended an olive branch. “Metropolis has always been a city of refuge. We can help you find a new home. But violence is not the way. Let’s work together to find a peaceful solution.”

The alien leader nodded, and with that, the battle came to an abrupt halt. Stellarion used his powers to communicate with the city’s leaders and the United Nations, forging a plan to accommodate the alien refugees while ensuring the safety of Metropolis. The city came together, demonstrating the resilience and compassion that defined it in times of crisis.

Over the following weeks, the aliens were provided shelter and resources, and scientists collaborated to find a suitable planet for their resettlement. Metropolis, with Stellarion as its guiding light, proved that unity and compassion could prevail even in the face of unimaginable challenges.

In the end, the alien refugees found a new home among the stars, and Metropolis remained a shining beacon of hope. Stellarion, once a symbol of strength and power, now stood as a symbol of peace and compassion, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the human spirit could prevail.

As the alien fleet departed, the citizens of Metropolis watched with a sense of fulfillment. The night sky was no longer filled with fear and dread but with hope and a renewed sense of unity. Stellarion, the hero who had once fought off an alien invasion, had now ushered in an era of interstellar cooperation, proving that even in the face of the unknown, humanity’s capacity for empathy and understanding could triumph over all.

Here is another early attempt:

Prompt: Write a scene in which a mother, Anna, and a daughter, Kim, are arguing in a kitchen about the traditional recipe for chicken salad that has been handed down through the generations. Kim wants to modify it. The mother resists change. But the subtext of the argument is that Anna is angry that Kim has rejected her husband’s pleas to start a family. Kim thinks children would hamper her career as a lawyer. Unknown to the mother, Kim has come home to recover from an abortion. Once Kim’s husband finds out about the abortion, Kim knows that her husband will divorce her. Unaware of all this background, the mother still hopes for a traditional happy family, including grandchildren.

ChatGPT

In the warm, sunlit kitchen of their family home, Anna and Kim stood on opposite sides of the worn, maple wood table. The scent of fresh herbs and simmering soup filled the air, mixing with the tension that hung between them. Anna, her silver-streaked hair pulled back in a tight bun, clutched a faded recipe card in her hand. Kim, her eyes determined and dark hair pulled into a hasty ponytail, looked resolute.

Anna sighed and glanced down at the cherished piece of paper in her hand, the delicate handwriting worn from years of use. “Kim, you can’t just change our family’s chicken salad recipe. This has been passed down through generations. It’s tradition.”

Kim crossed her arms and leaned against the counter, her voice soft but firm. “Mom, I love tradition, but sometimes it needs a little update. I’m a lawyer, for heaven’s sake. I can’t bring this bland, old-fashioned dish to the potluck and expect people to be impressed. I’ve got to make it my own.”

Anna’s eyes flashed with a mix of frustration and disappointment. “Kim, it’s not just about the salad. It’s about the values and the memories it carries. It’s a piece of our family history.”

Kim’s jaw clenched, her voice carrying an edge of frustration. “And what about my future, Mom? This recipe is a relic from a time when women were expected to just cook and have kids. You know I don’t want children right now. I have a career to build.”

Anna’s eyes clouded with an unspoken sorrow. She had longed for grandchildren, and the truth of Kim’s feelings stung more than her insistence on altering the recipe. “Kim, your father and I have been waiting for you and Dan to start a family for so long. It’s only natural.”

Kim’s eyes met her mother’s, and there was a moment of silence that carried the weight of unspoken secrets. Kim looked away, her voice barely above a whisper. “Mom, I don’t want kids.”

Anna’s eyes searched her daughter’s face, seeing something deeper there, a hidden pain she couldn’t quite decipher. “Kim, I thought you and Dan were trying to conceive. Your father was so excited.”

Kim turned her gaze to the floor, unable to meet her mother’s eyes. “We were, but I… I had a miscarriage, Mom. It was tough, and I realized I’m not ready for this. I need to focus on my career.”

Anna’s face softened with empathy as she reached across the table to touch Kim’s hand. “Oh, sweetheart, I had no idea. I’m so sorry you had to go through that.”

Kim’s eyes glistened with unshed tears, her voice breaking. “There’s something else, Mom. I… I had an abortion. I couldn’t tell Dan. I knew he’d be devastated.”

Anna gasped, her hand flying to her mouth, her eyes wide with shock. Her world, filled with hopes of grandchildren and a traditional family, crumbled in an instant.

Kim took a shuddering breath, her voice trembling. “Mom, you have to understand, I’m not ready for this. Dan can’t know, or he’ll divorce me.”

Anna, still in a state of shock, reached for her daughter, pulling her into a tight embrace. The ancient recipe card slipped from her fingers and floated gently to the kitchen floor, a symbol of traditions that were rapidly changing, and secrets that were unfolding.

In the background, the soup continued to simmer, its aroma mingling with the tears and unspoken fears of a family in transition.

ChatGPT can give the story in any format you want:

Prompt: As a Hollywood screenwriter expert at adapting prose fiction for the screen, rewrite this scene as the opening scene of a screenplay.

ChatGPT

INT. FAMILY KITCHEN – MORNING

A cozy, sunlit kitchen with dappled light streaming through lace curtains. The aroma of simmering soup and fresh herbs fills the air. ANNA (early sixties, silver-streaked hair pulled back in a tight bun) clutches a faded recipe card in her hand. KIM (late twenties, determined eyes, hasty ponytail) stands on the opposite side of the worn, maple wood table.

Anna’s eyes are fixed on the cherished recipe card, frustration evident in her voice.

ANNA (With frustration) You can’t just change our family’s chicken salad recipe, Kim. This has been passed down through generations. It’s tradition.

Kim crosses her arms, leaning against the counter, her voice just as resolute.

KIM (Defiant) Mom, I love tradition, but sometimes it needs a little update. I’m a lawyer, for heaven’s sake. I can’t bring this bland, old-fashioned dish to the potluck and expect people to be impressed. I’ve got to make it my own.

Anna sighs, her eyes revealing a mix of frustration and disappointment.

ANNA (With disappointment) Kim, it’s not just about the salad. It’s about the values and the memories it carries. It’s a piece of our family history.

Kim’s jaw clenches, her voice filled with frustration.

KIM (Frustrated) And what about my future, Mom? This recipe is a relic from a time when women were expected to just cook and have kids. You know I don’t want children right now. I have a career to build.

Anna’s eyes cloud with unspoken sorrow.

ANNA (Sorrowful) Kim, your father and I have been waiting for you and Dan to start a family for so long. It’s only natural.

Kim’s gaze falls to the floor, her voice barely above a whisper.

KIM (Whispering) Mom, I don’t want kids.

Anna’s eyes search her daughter’s face, sensing a hidden pain.

ANNA (Sympathetic) Kim, I thought you and Dan were trying to conceive. Your father was so excited.

Kim avoids her mother’s eyes, her voice breaking.

KIM (Tears welling) We were, but I… I had a miscarriage, Mom. It was tough, and I realized I’m not ready for this. I need to focus on my career.

Anna’s face softens with empathy. She reaches across the table to touch Kim’s hand.

ANNA (Emotional) Oh, sweetheart, I had no idea. I’m so sorry you had to go through that.

Kim’s eyes glisten with unshed tears, her voice trembling.

KIM (Tearful) There’s something else, Mom. I… I had an abortion. I couldn’t tell Dan. I knew he’d be devastated.

Anna gasps, her hand covering her mouth, her eyes wide with shock. Her dreams of grandchildren and a traditional family shatter.

Kim takes a shuddering breath. Her voice quivers.

KIM (Confessing) Mom, you have to understand, I’m not ready for this. Dan can’t know, or he’ll divorce me.

Anna, still in shock, pulls her daughter into a tight embrace. The ancient recipe card slips from her fingers and falls gently to the kitchen floor. It’s a symbol of traditions in flux and secrets unraveling.

In the background, the soup continues to simmer, its aroma mingling with the tears and unspoken fears of a family in transition.

FADE OUT.

The quality of the writing isn’t quite up to that of a professional writer, yet. But the AI is getting better with each use. In ChatGPT Plus the user can give up or down ratings of the output which is used by the developers to continuously refine the model.

Of more immediate use is ChatGPT’s potential role as a writer’s assistant. It will, for instance, take a sample of your writing and proofread it. It can offer suggestions for how to introduce dramatic twists, deepen character motivations, or resolve plot holes. It can sift through immense amounts of background data to help you with research or detect anachronisms in your historical writing. Let’s illustrate this capability:

Prompt: Here is a passage from a story set during the American Civil War, “The private shivered in his tent unable to sleep thinking about the upcoming battle. He thought of phoning his mother and telling her how much he loved her, but worried that he would only betray his own fear and cause her to worry. He thought of getting up and cleaning his rifle, but he knew that his M-16 was already in perfect condition. He tried to find some soothing music on the radio, but the signal was too weak. He hoped his leaders knew what was best and would do everything in their power to keep him safe. He trusted General Caesar and President Carter. His last thought before falling asleep was that he hoped there wouldn’t be any mustard gas used in the upcoming battle.” As an expert editor skilled in the history of the Civil War analyze this passage to find any historical anachronisms or factual mistakes. List them for the author in the order in which they occur in the text.

ChatGPT

There are several historical anachronisms and factual mistakes in the passage you provided, which is set during the American Civil War. Here they are, listed in the order they appear in the text:

1. “phoning his mother”: The term “phoning” suggests the use of a telephone, which did not exist during the American Civil War. Communication during that time was primarily through letters or in-person.
2. “M-16”: The M-16 rifle did not exist during the American Civil War. The M-16 is a modern firearm developed in the 20th century.
3. “radio”: Radio technology also did not exist during the Civil War. It wasn’t invented until the late 19th century and wasn’t widely used until the 20th century.
4. “General Caesar and President Carter”: General Julius Caesar and President Jimmy Carter did not exist during the American Civil War. General namesakes like Julius Caesar are from a different era (ancient Rome), and Jimmy Carter served as the President of the United States in the late 20th century.
5. “mustard gas”: Mustard gas is a chemical weapon that was used during World War I, which occurred decades after the American Civil War. There was no use of mustard gas during the Civil War.

These anachronisms and factual mistakes significantly disrupt the historical accuracy of the passage, as they refer to technologies, people, and events that are far removed from the Civil War era.

ChatGPT can pattern your outlines according to popular paradigms such as Blake Snyder’s “Save the Cat” structure, showing all of the beats at their proper places. It can also help prepare character backstories. Let’s see an example of this last task:

Prompt: As preparation for a literary novel, design character backstories for each of the Myers-Briggs personality profiles. Make sure to randomly assign characters’ genders and ethnicities in the same demographic distribution as the last census.

ChatGPT

Creating character backstories for each of the Myers-Briggs personality profiles with diverse gender and ethnic representation is a complex task, as it requires the development of 16 unique characters. Additionally, it’s important to note that the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a personality assessment, and people of any gender or ethnicity can belong to any of the 16 personality types. Here, I’ll create a brief character sketch for each personality type, randomly assigning gender and ethnicity while aiming for a diverse representation:

ISTJ – The Inspector

• Character: Alex Patel (Indian-American)
• Occupation: Attorney
• Background: Born and raised in Chicago, Alex is a meticulous and responsible individual who comes from a close-knit family of Indian immigrants. Their commitment to law and order stems from a desire to create a stable and secure life.

ISFJ – The Protector

• Character: Maria González (Mexican-American)
• Occupation: School Nurse
• Background: Maria grew up in a bilingual household in Los Angeles. Her nurturing and empathetic nature led her to a career in healthcare, where she is dedicated to the well-being of the students at her school.

INFJ – The Advocate

• Character: Ethan Kim (Korean-American)
• Occupation: Social Worker
• Background: Ethan’s deep sense of empathy and desire to make the world a better place were influenced by his upbringing in a tight-knit Korean community in New York City.

INTJ – The Architect

• Character: Sarah Johnson (African-American)
• Occupation: Software Engineer
• Background: Growing up in Detroit, Sarah is a visionary thinker with a passion for technology. Her determination and innovative mind have led her to a successful career in the tech industry.

ISTP – The Craftsman

• Character: Javier Rodriguez (Mexican-American)
• Occupation: Mechanic
• Background: Javier hails from a family of skilled mechanics in San Antonio. His hands-on, practical nature and mechanical aptitude make him a respected member of his community.

ISFP – The Composer

• Character: Chloe Brown (Caucasian)
• Occupation: Musician
• Background: Chloe, a native of Seattle, is a free-spirited musician. Her love for art and music was nurtured by her artist parents and a diverse group of friends in the city.

INFP – The Healer

1. Character: Aiden Patel (Indian-American)
2. Occupation: Psychologist
3. Background: Aiden, Alex’s cousin, chose a path of understanding and healing. Raised in Chicago, their compassionate and creative nature led them to a career in psychology.

INTP – The Thinker

• Character: Andrei Petrov (Russian-American)
• Occupation: Research Scientist
• Background: Andrei immigrated to the United States from Russia as a child. His logical and analytical mind has driven him to excel in the world of scientific research.

ESTJ – The Supervisor

• Character: Karen Washington (African-American)
• Occupation: Business Executive
• Background: Karen, raised in Atlanta, is a natural leader with a strong sense of duty. Her ambition and organizational skills have propelled her into a prominent corporate career.

ESFJ – The Provider

• Character: Carlos Ramirez (Mexican-American)
• Occupation: Elementary School Principal
• Background: Carlos, born and raised in Texas, has a natural ability to connect with people. He is dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment for the students in his school.

ENFJ – The Teacher

• Character: Priya Patel (Indian-American)
• Occupation: Non-profit Director
• Background: Priya, Alex’s sister, is a charismatic and compassionate leader. Growing up in Chicago, she is committed to making a positive impact through her non-profit work.

ENTJ – The Commander

• Character: Robert Davis (Caucasian)
• Occupation: CEO
• Background: Robert, from a small town in Ohio, is a natural strategist and leader. His determination and strong-willed personality have propelled him to the top of his industry.

ESTP – The Dynamo

• Character: Jamal Smith (African-American)
• Occupation: Professional Athlete
• Background: Jamal’s athletic prowess and competitive spirit, nurtured in his hometown of New Orleans, led him to a successful career as a professional athlete.

ESFP – The Performer

• Character: Isabella Martinez (Hispanic)
• Occupation: Actress
• Background: Isabella, a talented actress from Los Angeles, is known for her vivacious and expressive personality. Her love for the arts was fostered by her artistic family.

ENFP – The Champion

• Character: Lucas Chang (Chinese-American)
• Occupation: Environmental Activist
• Background: Lucas, growing up in San Francisco, is a passionate advocate for environmental causes. His enthusiastic and imaginative nature fuels his commitment to making a difference.

ENTP – The Visionary

• Character: Grace Johnson (African-American)
• Occupation: Tech Entrepreneur
• Background: Grace is a dynamic entrepreneur from Detroit. Her inventive and strategic mind has driven her to create successful tech startups and mentor aspiring innovators.

These character sketches encompass a wide range of personalities, backgrounds, and occupations, reflecting the diversity of the Myers-Briggs personality types in a contemporary, multicultural context.

Prompt: Take profile number sixteen and expand the character backstory to include education history, reading preferences, type of romantic relationships she has engaged in, family history, quirks of personality, TV watching preferences, clothing preferences, preferred pets, attitude towards future children, attitudes towards marriage versus casual affairs, moral attitudes, political attitudes, and give a detailed physical description. Remember to keep all details consistent with her ENTP Myers-Briggs profile.

ChatGPT

Character: Grace Johnson

Education History: Grace attended a prestigious Ivy League university where she majored in computer science and economics. Her insatiable curiosity and innovative thinking made her an exceptional student, and she graduated with honors. After completing her undergraduate degree, she pursued a master’s in entrepreneurship to further develop her business acumen.

Reading Preferences: Grace’s bookshelf is a mix of non-fiction, business strategy, and science fiction novels. She enjoys reading about cutting-edge technology, innovative startups, and mind-bending science concepts. Her favorite authors include Isaac Asimov and Malcolm Gladwell.

Romantic Relationships: Grace has engaged in a few serious, long-term romantic relationships. She values partners who challenge her intellectually and share her enthusiasm for innovation. While she appreciates deep connections, she tends to prioritize her career and personal growth.

Family History: Grace comes from a family of accomplished engineers and entrepreneurs. Her parents, both engineers, encouraged her to explore her interests and supported her educational pursuits. They instilled in her a strong work ethic and a passion for problem-solving.

Quirks of Personality:

• Grace is a natural debater and loves engaging in intellectual discussions.
• She’s known for her witty and sometimes sarcastic sense of humor.
• Grace has a tendency to start side projects and business ideas on a whim.
• She thrives in high-pressure situations and often seeks out challenges to test her abilities.

TV Watching Preferences: Grace enjoys thought-provoking shows like “Black Mirror” and “Westworld” that explore the intersection of technology and humanity. She’s also a fan of documentaries, especially those related to emerging technologies.

Clothing Preferences: Her style is a mix of professional and casual. She often opts for well-tailored blazers, statement t-shirts, and comfortable sneakers. Grace’s wardrobe is minimalistic and practical, emphasizing versatility and comfort.

Preferred Pets: Grace is a cat person. She finds the independence and mysterious nature of cats appealing. Her sleek, modern apartment is often graced by the presence of her two feline companions, Tesla and Edison.

Attitude Towards Future Children: While Grace is open to the idea of having children in the future, she acknowledges that her career and pursuits may delay this decision. She believes that, when the time is right, her children will benefit from her innovative mindset and strong values.

Attitudes Towards Marriage vs. Casual Affairs: Grace is not against the idea of marriage, but she believes that it should be a partnership of equals. She values her independence and prefers casual dating until she meets someone who truly matches her ambitions and complements her intellectually.

Moral Attitudes: Grace has a strong sense of social responsibility and believes in using her skills and resources to make a positive impact. She supports causes related to technology education and sustainable development.

Political Attitudes: She tends to lean towards progressive and forward-thinking policies. Grace advocates for government support of innovation, environmental protection, and equal access to education and technology.

Physical Description: Grace is a striking figure with a tall, athletic build. She has a warm, caramel-toned complexion that pairs beautifully with her expressive, deep brown eyes. Her straight, jet-black hair frames her face and falls just past her shoulders. Grace has an air of confidence in her movements, and her signature accessory is a pair of sleek, modern glasses that complement her strong, intellectual presence. Her style is polished but comfortable, often choosing attire in shades of black, white, and gray, with the occasional pop of color from a statement accessory or piece of jewelry.

Prompt: As a casting director for a major Hollywood film studio, give me three suggestions for actresses who would be best suited to play Grace Johnson in a movie adaptation.

ChatGPT

To cast an actress who would be best suited to play the role of Grace Johnson in a movie adaptation, you would want someone who can embody the character’s intelligence, charisma, and entrepreneurial spirit. Here are three actresses who would be strong contenders for the role:

1. Emma Stone: Emma Stone is known for her versatility and her ability to tackle a wide range of roles. She has a charismatic presence and can convincingly portray strong, intelligent characters. Her performance in movies like “La La Land” and “Easy A” demonstrates her capacity to bring wit and depth to her characters, making her a strong candidate for the role of Grace Johnson.
2. Natalie Portman: Natalie Portman is a talented actress with a strong background in both dramatic and intellectual roles. She has played complex, intelligent characters in films like “Black Swan” and “V for Vendetta.” Portman’s ability to convey Grace’s intellectual curiosity and charisma would make her a compelling choice for the role.
3. Rooney Mara: Rooney Mara is known for her enigmatic and intellectual performances. Her roles in movies like “The Social Network” and “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” showcase her ability to embody characters with depth and intelligence. Mara’s captivating on-screen presence and her talent for conveying complex emotions make her a strong contender for the character of Grace Johnson.

All three of these actresses have the acting range and charisma to bring Grace Johnson’s character to life on the big screen, making them excellent choices for the role in a Hollywood film adaptation.

Prompt: Revise your movie casting suggestions to reflect the requirement that the character be played by an African-American actress.

ChatGPT

Certainly, taking into account the requirement for the character of Grace Johnson to be portrayed by an African-American actress, here are three talented actresses who would be well-suited for the role:

1. Zoe Kravitz: Zoe Kravitz is a highly regarded African-American actress known for her diverse and captivating performances. Her work in movies like “Big Little Lies” and “Divergent” showcases her ability to bring depth and intelligence to her characters. Kravitz’s natural charm and on-screen presence make her a strong candidate to play the character of Grace Johnson.
2. Tessa Thompson: Tessa Thompson is a talented African-American actress with a remarkable range. She has portrayed strong, intelligent characters in films such as “Westworld” and “Thor: Ragnarok.” Thompson’s charisma and ability to convey complex emotions would make her a compelling choice for the role of Grace Johnson.
3. Amandla Stenberg: Amandla Stenberg is a rising African-American actress known for her powerful and thought-provoking performances. Her role in “The Hate U Give” demonstrated her ability to tackle complex and socially relevant characters. Stenberg’s intelligence and authenticity on screen would make her a strong contender for the character of Grace Johnson.

These three talented African-American actresses have the skill, charisma, and range necessary to bring the character of Grace Johnson to life on the big screen in a Hollywood film adaptation.

Check out Tony Walker’s YouTube presentation “How to Write a Novel with Chat GPT and Illustrate It with Midjourney (2)” for a taste of how to refine this process using prompt engineering.

The ethical issues generated by the use of ChatGPT are complex. Apple TV just canceled Jon Stewart’s talk show because it didn’t want to air his comments on AI (as well as on China). Part of that is how criticism of AI might seriously impact the company’s profits given the ongoing negotiations between the studios and producers on the one hand and both writers’ and actors’ guilds on the other. The Hollywood writer’s strike was resolved after fierce battles over how AI would be used in generating scripts. There had been speculation that instead of hiring screenwriters, the studios were more interested in prompt writers. The actors are still trying to work out a compromise. Both segments of the creative community can envision a world where corporations can edit humans out of the creative process altogether and not have to share any of their profits with bothersome creatives. It is possible that no humans will be involved in any aspect of professional creative writing within the next decade. The same is true for most white-collar skill jobs. Enrollments in college bookkeeping programs have fallen dramatically. Doctors, pharmacists, lawyers, architects, etc. could all see their professions completely automated. A small few may be retained as prompters and annotators, but the rest will be caught in a tsunami of creative destruction.

But I won’t bother going through any more of these complex ethical issues myself. I’ll let ChatGPT do it for me:

Prompt: Write a fictional discussion between Margaret and Kurt about the dangers and ethical questions raised by ChatGPT writing novels. What will this new method of writing fiction mean for human writers and for literature?

ChatGPT

Margaret: Good evening, Kurt. It’s a pleasure to be here to discuss the fascinating topic of ChatGPT and its impact on the world of literature and human writers.

Kurt: Good evening, Margaret. I’ve been looking forward to this conversation. It’s an intriguing subject, indeed.

Margaret: To kick things off, I believe we should first address the incredible capabilities of ChatGPT when it comes to writing fiction. This AI can generate coherent narratives, complex characters, and even mimic different writing styles. What do you make of this, Kurt?

Kurt: Well, Margaret, it’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s remarkable how far technology has come in enabling AI to create stories that are, to some extent, indistinguishable from those written by humans. But on the other hand, it raises questions about the future of human creativity and the role of the writer in the creative process.

Margaret: Absolutely. One concern that immediately comes to mind is the potential erosion of human creativity and the devaluation of the writer’s craft. With ChatGPT being able to churn out novels at a pace and consistency that no human can match, how can we ensure that the art of writing doesn’t become mechanical and sterile?

Kurt: That’s a valid point. Writing has always been an expression of human thought, emotion, and individuality. When machines start doing it, we risk losing the human touch and the uniqueness that comes with each author’s voice. It’s like a world of copies without originals.

Margaret: I think you’ve hit the nail on the head, Kurt. The beauty of literature lies in its diversity and the myriad perspectives and voices that contribute to it. But ChatGPT and other AI tools can homogenize this landscape. And it’s not just about the writing process; it’s also about the opportunities for emerging authors and marginalized voices. Will AI make it even harder for them to break through in the literary world?

Kurt: You’re absolutely right. The publishing world can be competitive and biased as it is. If AI-generated content starts to dominate the market, it could potentially make it even more challenging for new and underrepresented authors to find their place. Diversity and originality are essential to literature, and we need to ensure they’re not lost in the AI shuffle.

Margaret: On the flip side, though, AI could be a valuable tool for aspiring writers. It can help with brainstorming, providing inspiration, or even editing. It can serve as a collaborator, a creative partner, so to speak. What do you think about this potential for AI to assist and empower writers?

Kurt: You make a good point, Margaret. AI can be a valuable resource for writers, providing them with inspiration, suggestions, and even helping them refine their work. It’s like having an infinite well of knowledge and ideas to draw from. However, the danger is in over-reliance. Writers should use AI as a tool, not a crutch. The unique human perspective should always shine through.

Margaret: And there’s also the ethical question of authorship and ownership. If an AI helps generate ideas or even complete works, who should be credited as the author? The programmer who created the AI, the person who pushed the button, or both? It’s a thorny issue.

Kurt: That’s a fascinating ethical dilemma. It blurs the lines of authorship and intellectual property. If the creative process is a joint effort between humans and machines, do we need to redefine how we attribute authorship? It’s a question that’s only going to become more pressing as AI continues to advance.

Margaret: Indeed, and I think it’s essential to have clear guidelines and regulations in place. We need to protect the rights of both human writers and those who create these AI systems. It’s a matter of ensuring that the balance between human creativity and technological advancement is maintained.

Kurt: Well, I agree, but I also fear that once Pandora’s box is open, it’s tough to control its contents. There will always be people pushing the boundaries, using AI in ways that could be detrimental to literature or society as a whole.

Margaret: True. We’ve already seen instances of AI-generated content being used for malicious purposes, like deepfake videos and misinformation. The potential for AI to create fake news or propaganda in the form of novels or stories is concerning. It’s a matter of safeguarding the integrity of literature and ensuring that fiction doesn’t blur with reality in harmful ways.

Kurt: It reminds me of the power of literature to influence society. Novels have been used to spark change, provoke thought, and inspire generations. But if AI starts producing literature that’s manipulative or malicious, what does that mean for the moral and ethical impact of fiction?

Margaret: I’m glad you brought that up, Kurt. Literature has the power to shape our perspectives, challenge our beliefs, and bring about positive change. When AI is harnessed for manipulation or propaganda, it undermines the very essence of what literature stands for. We need to be vigilant in guarding against such misuse.

Kurt: And, you know, Margaret, while there are concerns about AI-generated fiction, there’s also the potential for AI to explore new frontiers in storytelling. It can help us break free from conventional narrative structures and genres. Perhaps it’s a tool to inspire experimentation and innovation in literature.

Margaret: I’m glad you brought that up, Kurt. AI can help us push the boundaries of storytelling, creating narratives that might not be achievable through conventional means. It can be a source of creative inspiration, challenging writers to think beyond their usual constraints. But the key is for authors to use AI as a tool to enhance their creativity, not as a replacement for their unique voice.

Kurt: Right, we don’t want to end up in a world where every story sounds the same because it’s been filtered through an AI’s notion of what’s “marketable” or “popular.” Literature should be diverse, unpredictable, and reflective of the human experience.

Margaret: I couldn’t agree more. Literature is a reflection of our culture, our history, and our emotions. It’s a record of the human condition, and it should continue to evolve and capture the essence of the ever-changing world we live in.

Kurt: So, Margaret, what do you think about the responsibility of writers and publishers in this new landscape? How can they navigate the AI era while preserving the authenticity of literature?

Margaret: That’s a crucial question, Kurt. Writers and publishers have a significant role to play in shaping the future of literature in the AI era. For writers, it’s about maintaining their unique voice and not allowing AI to overshadow their creativity. It’s also about setting clear boundaries for the use of AI as a tool rather than a replacement.

Kurt: I couldn’t agree more. Writers need to remember that they are the architects of their stories. AI can be a helpful assistant, but it should never become the primary author. As for publishers, they must ensure that the proliferation of AI-generated content doesn’t crowd out the diverse voices that make literature vibrant and meaningful.

Margaret: Yes, and publishers also need to establish ethical guidelines for the use of AI in literature. They should take measures to verify the authenticity of human-authored works, preventing the spread of misleading or harmful content. The publishing industry has a responsibility to maintain the integrity of literature.

Kurt: I think it’s also important for educational institutions and writing programs to adapt to the changing landscape. They should teach aspiring writers how to navigate the world of AI, use it as a creative tool, and maintain their individuality. We need to prepare the next generation of authors to thrive in this new literary environment.

Margaret: That’s an excellent point, Kurt. The education of writers must evolve to reflect the technological advancements in the field. Aspiring authors should be equipped with the knowledge and skills to harness the potential of AI while preserving the art and craft of storytelling.

Kurt: Speaking of craft, Margaret, do you think that AI could ever truly replicate the deep emotional and intellectual understanding that human authors bring to their work? Can it write stories that resonate on a profound level?

Margaret: It’s a challenging question. AI can mimic the appearance of depth and emotion in writing, but it lacks the genuine human experience and understanding that authors bring to their work. The complexities of human emotions, relationships, and the human condition are not easily replicated by algorithms. While AI can produce compelling stories, there’s a depth that only human authors can provide.

Kurt: That depth is what makes literature so powerful and enduring. It’s the ability of writers to capture the complexities of the human experience and convey them in a way that resonates with readers. AI may create engaging stories, but it may not touch the soul in the same way.

Margaret: Exactly, Kurt. Literature has the power to move us, to make us think, to challenge our beliefs, and to bring about social change. It’s a reflection of our shared human experiences and emotions. AI can certainly entertain and inform, but it may not be able to inspire the same level of introspection and empathy that human-authored literature can.

Kurt: You know, Margaret, there’s something else that concerns me. As AI continues to advance, there’s a risk that it could be used to perpetuate existing biases and inequalities, whether consciously or unconsciously. We’ve seen this in other applications of AI, such as in hiring and criminal justice. How do we ensure that AI-generated literature doesn’t reinforce harmful stereotypes or biases?

Margaret: That’s a crucial point, Kurt. AI systems can inherit biases from the data they are trained on, which is often drawn from historical sources that reflect societal biases. To prevent AI-generated literature from perpetuating these biases, it’s essential to rigorously scrutinize the data and algorithms used. Writers, publishers, and AI developers should be committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and ethical content.

Kurt: It’s not just about avoiding bias in content, but also in the way AI-generated content is promoted and disseminated. We need to be vigilant against the concentration of power in the hands of a few who might use AI-generated literature for their own agendas. It’s a question of ensuring that the literary world remains open and democratic.

Margaret: That’s an excellent point, Kurt. We should be cautious about the concentration of power and the potential for AI-generated literature to be used for propaganda or manipulation. The literary world should remain a place where diverse voices are heard, where ideas are freely exchanged, and where the power of storytelling is a force for good.

Kurt: It’s a challenge, Margaret, but it’s also an opportunity. AI can help us reach wider audiences, break down language barriers, and make literature more accessible. We just need to harness its potential while being mindful of its limitations and ethical considerations.

Margaret: Indeed, Kurt. AI can be a tool for democratizing literature and expanding its reach. It can help us bridge cultural and linguistic gaps, making literature a truly global and inclusive endeavor. But, as with any powerful tool, its use must be guided by a sense of responsibility and ethics.

Kurt: As we look to the future, Margaret, what do you think are the most critical considerations for the literary world as it navigates the age of AI? How can we ensure that literature continues to evolve and thrive while preserving its unique human essence?

Margaret: One of the most critical considerations is the responsible and ethical use of AI in literature. We need guidelines and regulations to protect the integrity of the craft and ensure that diverse voices continue to be heard. We must also educate the next generation of writers to harness the potential of AI while preserving the art of storytelling.

Kurt: I agree, Margaret. Education and ethical guidelines are key. Additionally, we need to encourage experimentation and innovation in literature, using AI as a tool to explore new frontiers while preserving the authenticity of human creativity. Literature should continue to be a source of inspiration, challenge, and reflection for generations to come.

Margaret: And we must always be vigilant against the misuse of AI-generated literature for propaganda or manipulation. The literary world should be a place where truth and creativity are valued above all else, where the power of storytelling is a force for good.

Kurt: Well, Margaret, it’s been a fascinating discussion. The future of literature is certainly at a crossroads, and it will be interesting to see how it unfolds in the age of AI.

Margaret: It has been a pleasure, Kurt. The literary world is ever-evolving, and it’s up to us and future generations to ensure that it remains a vibrant and authentic reflection of the human experience. Thank you for this insightful conversation. Kurt: Thank you, Margaret. Here’s to a future where literature and AI coexist in harmony, pushing the boundaries of creativity while preserving the essence of human storytelling.

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