Unveiling Shadows

As you may already know, after reading some of my articles so far, I rather enjoy writing up prompts for ChatGPT to see what gets generated. Yesterday, I wanted to see if ChatGPT can be a storyteller.

First, I need to explain some ChatGPT vocabulary. I mentioned that I like writing prompts. What is a “prompt”? It is as it sounds. Prompts are the input to the model, or the instructions. Prompts can be anything from a few words to a paragraph.

Here are some examples:

1. “Write a summary showcasing my skills and experiences relevant to a Social Media Manager role.”
2. “What are common mistakes job seekers make on their resumes?”
3. “List 3 compelling reasons our customers should buy
4. “Write a cold email to a prospective customer introducing my [company or organization] and how it can benefit them using [selling points].”
5. “Generate a Twitter thread about [topic].”

For more sample prompts, you can visit this website.

Here is the prompt that I wrote for the story, “Unveiling Shadows”, presented below:

“Write a 700 word story about Jacob Hanson. Jacob is 35 years old and is a programmer. He has 4 kids, 2 boys and 2 girls, and a wife of  12 years of marriage, named Donna. They live in Austin, TX, and Jacob works for a startup tech company.  Donna homeschools the children.  Jacob discovers a secret in the code he was assigned to work with. Because of this secret, the CIA is trying to recruit him. The Chinese  secret service is trying to kidnap him. This story should tell about how Jacob works with the CIA and the FBI to expose the Chinese and a plot  to infiltrate the US government. The story should end happily with the Chinese exposed and Jacob going back to work, unable to tell anyone  about the events that unfolded.”

As you can tell, the AI engine still requires creative input. It is in my opinion that writers will not be replaced by computers anytime soon. There are no shortcuts to the creative process. Companies will not be able to save money by hiring computer operators rather than skilled writers.

When you read the following story, take note that it reads technically well, but still lacks the personal touch that a skilled writer naturally injects into their creation. Even though ChatGPT can generate an entertaining short story, based on my input, I doubt that it will become a New York Times bestseller anytime soon.

Although ChatGPT will not turn me into the next Tom Clancy, writing and publishing is still fun nonetheless.

And now, let me introduce…. Unveiling Shadows.

Jacob Hanson’s life in Austin, Texas, was seemingly ordinary. At 35 years old, he was a dedicated programmer working for a promising tech startup. Outside of work, Jacob had a loving wife named Donna, with whom he shared 12 years of marriage. Together, they had four beautiful children – two boys and two girls. With Donna taking on the role of homeschooling their children, their days were filled with joy, laughter, and the pursuit of knowledge.

One fateful day, while delving deep into the code he was assigned to work with, Jacob stumbled upon a hidden secret. His expertise allowed him to uncover a series of lines that revealed a malicious plot buried within the program. As Jacob’s mind raced with the implications of his findings, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of unease.

Word of Jacob’s discovery had quickly spread, catching the attention of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Recognizing his potential, a team of agents approached Jacob, offering him an opportunity to work with them. Knowing the gravity of the situation, Jacob accepted their offer, aware that his involvement would put his family in danger.

As Jacob delved deeper into the secret code, he discovered that the Chinese secret service had orchestrated the plot he had uncovered. Their intention was to infiltrate the U.S. government through a web of deceit, using the very technology Jacob had been working on. The CIA informed Jacob that the Chinese secret service had also caught wind of his involvement and were relentlessly pursuing him.

With his life now in constant jeopardy, Jacob found himself caught in a dangerous game of cat and mouse. The CIA and FBI joined forces to ensure his safety while they worked together to expose the Chinese plot. Jacob’s programming skills became invaluable as he assisted the agencies in uncovering the intricate layers of deception, leading them closer to the truth.

After months of tireless investigation, the combined efforts of Jacob, the CIA, and the FBI finally bore fruit. Evidence was gathered, exposing the extent of the Chinese infiltration within the U.S. government. The truth sent shock waves through the nation, and Jacob’s role in the operation was kept under the tightest of wraps.

As the dust settled and the Chinese were brought to justice, Jacob was faced with a difficult decision. He could not reveal his involvement or the danger his family had endured. Jacob returned to his normal life, continuing to work for the tech startup, with the knowledge that his actions had saved countless lives and protected his country from a potentially devastating attack.

Despite the secrecy surrounding his heroic actions, Jacob found solace in knowing that his family was safe and that he had made a significant impact on national security. Life continued in Austin, Texas, with Donna homeschooling their children and Jacob returning to the routine of his programming job. Together, they embraced the happiness and tranquility that came with a life lived in the shadows, knowing that their sacrifices had not been in vain.

In Conclusion

Jacob Hanson remained an unsung hero, his story forever kept hidden from the world. The events that had unfolded would forever shape his perspective on life, love, and the sacrifices one must make to protect those they hold dear. And while the world would never know of his bravery, his family would forever be grateful for the strength and resilience he exhibited during those tumultuous times.

My Adventure Begins With AI Storytelling

History does repeat itself. At the turn of the 20th century, machines and factories made some jobs obsolete, while at the turn of the 21st century, some Internet based businesses (affectionately referred to as “.com’s”) made other jobs obsolete. Are we in the midst of a new revolution? An AI revolution?

If we are in the midst of a new technological revolution using AI technology, we must remember the past and how new technology brings about a new need for responsible usage. Technology is power, whether it is in the form of machines to make factories run more efficiently in the turn of the 20th century, in the form of a global network of computers connected together in the turn of the 21st century, or, now, in the form of software that improves the way it works by learning from prior runs.

To quote Uncle Ben in the story of Spiderman, “With great power comes great responsibility”.

Now to the purpose of this article. I wanted to see if ChatGPT could write an original story, given two websites, my LinkedIn and Facebook profiles, as reference.

The following statement is what I wrote in order to “program” the AI engine:

Write a 2000 word story about the experiences of Ben Klein using the information from https://www.linkedin.com/in/benklein73 and https://www.facebook.com/bklein73.

Below, enjoy the response of a storyteller who is artificially intelligent:

Once upon a time, in a bustling city, there lived a man named Ben Klein. Ben was a passionate and ambitious individual, always seeking new experiences and challenges. His journey began with a humble childhood, where he learned the values of hard work and determination from his loving parents.

Growing up, Ben displayed a keen interest in technology and innovation. He spent countless hours tinkering with computers, fascinated by their ability to connect people from all walks of life. As he grew older, his passion only intensified, leading him to pursue a degree in Computer Science from a prestigious university.

During his time at university, Ben excelled in both academics and extracurricular activities. He actively participated in various clubs and organizations, honing his leadership skills and networking with like-minded individuals. This allowed him to develop a strong foundation for his future endeavors.

After graduating with flying colors, Ben embarked on his professional journey. He joined a renowned tech company, eager to contribute his skills and make a meaningful impact. With his sharp intellect and innovative mindset, he quickly became an invaluable asset to the company. Ben’s dedication and ability to think outside the box earned him several promotions and accolades, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the tech industry.

However, Ben’s hunger for knowledge and personal growth was insatiable. He realized that in order to truly make a difference, he needed to expand his horizons beyond his current role. With this in mind, he decided to pursue a Master’s degree in Business Administration to complement his technical expertise.

During his time as a student, Ben embraced every opportunity that came his way. He actively engaged in class discussions, absorbing knowledge from renowned professors and collaborating with a diverse group of classmates. Ben’s ability to merge technical and business acumen set him apart, and he soon found himself attracting attention from top-tier companies.

Upon completing his Master’s degree, Ben was presented with a golden opportunity to join a cutting-edge startup. The company’s mission aligned perfectly with his own vision, and he eagerly accepted the offer. As a key member of the team, Ben played a crucial role in the company’s growth and success.

Throughout his professional journey, Ben never forgot the importance of giving back to society. He actively participated in various philanthropic initiatives, leveraging his skills and resources to make a positive impact. From volunteering at local schools to mentoring young entrepreneurs, Ben’s actions inspired others to follow suit.

As his career continued to so ar, Ben remained grounded and humble, always seeking new challenges to fuel his passion. He
continuously expanded his knowledge through conferences, workshops, and online courses, ensuring he stayed at the forefront of technological advancements.

Outside of work, Ben cherished his free time with his loved ones. He was a devoted husband and father, always making time for his family amidst his busy schedule. Whether it was going on adventurous vacations or simply spending quality time at home, Ben prioritized his relationships and treasured every moment.

As the years passed, Ben’s hard work and dedication paid off in unimaginable ways. He became a respected figure in the tech industry, sought after for his expertise and insights. His name became synonymous with innovation and success, and he used his influence to motivate and inspire others to pursue their dreams.

Looking back on his journey, Ben realized that his experiences had shaped him into the person he had become. From his humble beginnings to his triumphant accomplishments, every step had played a significant role in his growth.

And so, the story of Ben Klein serves as a reminder that with passion, determination, and a willingness to embrace new challenges, one can achieve greatness. Ben’s story continues to inspire countless individuals, proving that the pursuit of one’s dreams is a lifelong adventure worth embarking on.

My Adventure Continues with AI Storytelling

Now, I am not a complete narcissist so I only needed to read about how great I was a few times before getting bored. Either that, or my ADHD just kicked in and told me it was time to try something new. So, I wanted to try out my AI instruction on a celebrity actor and entrepreneur that I have come to admire.

The individual I chose started from modest beginnings in Canada and became one of the most wanted actors and spokespeople in history. Who am I talking about? Well, your address must be under “Rock Place” if you do not know by my less than subtle short description. No, I am not referring to Dwayne Johnson, even though, my experiment with him as a test subject would also be quite entertaining. I am referring none other than Ryan Reynolds.

Once again, I am using social media profiles and Internet searches to drive the AI engine. As long as the source information is correct or complete, the resulting story will make more sense. Either way, the story is entertaining.

Sit back. Relax. Curl up to a good story about a man name Ryan.

Once upon a time, in the bustling city of Vancouver, Canada, there was a young boy named Ryan Reynolds. Born on October 23, 1976, Ryan was destined for greatness from the start. As a child, he was known for his infectious laughter and charismatic personality, traits that would later propel him to stardom.

Growing up, Ryan had a strong passion for acting and storytelling. He would often gather his friends and family to perform skits and plays in the backyard, showcasing his natural talent for entertaining others. Little did he know that these early performances would lay the foundation for his future career.

As Ryan entered his teenage years, he began to dream of pursuing acting professionally. He enrolled in acting classes, honing his skills and immersing himself in the world of theater. Inspired by the greats of the industry, he devoured every book and article he could find, eager to learn from the best.

After completing high school, Ryan made the bold decision to move to Los Angeles, California, to chase his dreams. Armed with determination and a burning desire to succeed, he embarked on auditions, facing rejection after rejection. But Ryan refused to give up. He knew that success would come with perseverance, and he was willing to put in the work.

In 1991, Ryan landed his first significant role in the Canadian teen soap opera, “Hillside.” Though the show only lasted for two seasons, it provided him with a taste of the industry and a valuable platform to showcase his talent. This early success fueled his ambition and motivated him to push harder.

Over the next few years, Ryan continued to work tirelessly, taking on various roles in both film and television. It was during this time that he faced some of his biggest challenges. Despite being cast in several projects, the films often failed to make an impact, leaving Ryan frustrated and questioning his choices. But he stayed true to his passion, determined to prove his worth.

In 2002, Ryan’s career took a significant leap forward when he starred as the witty and charming Michael “Berg” Bergen in the sitcom “Two Guys and a Girl.” The show gained a loyal following, and Ryan’s comedic timing and undeniable charm began to catch the attention of industry insiders. It was during this time that he started to shape his unique on-screen persona, a blend of humor, charisma, and genuine likability.

With newfound recognition, Ryan began to land more prominent roles in films such as “Van Wilder: Party Liaison” and “Blade: Trinity,” earning him a reputation as a versatile actor. However, it was in 2009 that he truly skyrocketed to international fame with his portrayal of the foul-mouthed, yet endearing, superhero, Deadpool.

“Deadpool” became a worldwide phenomenon, earning critical acclaim and breaking box office records. Ryan’s portrayal of the unconventional superhero resonated with audiences, solidifying his status as one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actors. He had finally found his breakthrough, and he relished every moment of it.

Despite his success, Ryan remained humble and down-to-earth. He used his platform to champion important causes, raising awareness about social issues and using his wit to bring attention to charitable organizations. His genuine compassion and dedication to making a positive impact endeared him to fans and colleagues alike.

As the years went by, Ryan continued to take on challenging roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor. From action-packed blockbusters to heartfelt dramas, he proved time and again that he was more than just a pretty face. His dedication to his craft and commitment to delivering memorable performances earned him accolades and respect within the industry.

Outside of his acting career, Ryan found fulfillment in his personal life. In 2008, he got married to actress Scarlett Johansson, though their marriage ended in 2011. However, in 2012, he found love again and married the talented actress Blake Lively. Together, they formed a power couple, supporting and inspiring each other in both their personal and professional endeavors.

As Ryan Reynolds approached his forties, he continued to push boundaries and explore new avenues. In addition to acting, he ventured into producing, lending his creative vision to projects that resonated with him. He also embraced social media, using platforms like Twitter and Facebook to connect with his fans, sharing his humor and witty commentary.

With every passing year, Ryan’s star continued to rise. He became a household name, beloved by audiences worldwide for his talent, charm, and incredible work ethic. He had come a long way from the young boy entertaining his family in the backyard. His journey was a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and staying true to oneself.

In conclusion, Ryan Reynolds’ experiences serve as an inspiration to aspiring actors and dreamers everywhere. His unwavering determination, combined with his ability to connect with audiences, catapulted him to the pinnacle of success. From his humble beginnings in Vancouver to his place among Hollywood’s elite, Ryan Reynolds proved that dreams do come true
with hard work, resilience, and a sprinkle of humor.

I hope you enjoyed this episode of “My Adventures In AI Storytelling”.

Is AI Going To Takeover The World?

Here we are in the year 2023, the company OpenAI introduced us to their new product, ChatGPT. ChatGPT is a generative artificial intelligence engine. What does this mean? Well, putting it simply, it generates text, images, and other media. With the usage of OpenAI’s API (application programming interface) for ChatGPT, many companies and individuals have created some wonderful inventions, powered by the popular generative AI engine.

Personally, I created the InspectGPT component for my Cognicio facility management system. InspectGPT will generate any online inspection form given a simple prompt. If I wanted to prepare an inspection form for restaurants, I would simply type “restaurant kitchen” in the prompt and voila! The form generated can be used to guide a Cognicio user through the inspection process, and then appropriately score the success of the inspection. What a time saver!

A colleague of mine created R.O.B., which generates basic but complete content for a single paged website, given a few short questions. This process can streamline micro-site web development to one or two days versus one or two weeks.

As I started to write more articles, I have found that the using ChatGPT can be valuable to the writing process: not to replace the hard work of crafting a well written and thought-out article that is appropriately researched, but to provide a nice framework and base for the article.

Using AI technology to write an article can be compared to using code generation tools to write a program. Application developers have used code generation tools for years, if not decades. Code generation tools have proven to help eliminate the mundane programming tasks in an application, therefore, shortening the development phase of the project lifecycle.

Do writers and developers need to fear the loss of their jobs due to the introduction of generator tools? No, of course not.

To get the best output of generator tools, human input in definitely required.

First, the old rule “Garbage In Garbage Out” still applies. The better sources that you use to feed the AI engine, the better the generated text will be. The better the configuration of the code generator, the better the resulting code will be.

Second, even though, the resulting text may technically sound great, just as the generated code will technically run, the resulting text will not have the character of the author or developer. It is lacking je ne sais quoi.

The author still needs to take the generated text and build on it and, therefore, “making it their own”. In the programming world, the generated application may work great, but when used in the real world by real users, there will always be exceptions and customization that the developer needs to take into account, and, thusly, “making it their own”.

In both programming and journalism/writing, the usage of AI tools and generators can drastically shorten the time it takes to release or publish the end work product, but it is still not a substitution for the contribution of original intellectual property.

Wrapping Up

We must also remember that AI programming is not new. It has been around for over 20 to 30 years. I remember taking a class on this topic when I attended the University of Florida back in 1995, where I was an Information Systems major in the College of Business. We, as a collective, have just been able to improve the processing of AI engines given the now globally inter-connectivity of computers and networks now. The more diverse and vast the source data is, the more rich and productive the end products of modern generation tools will be.

In the immortal words of Johnny 5 in the 80’s movie Short Circuit,

“More Input!”