We will soon, if not already, be drowning in the Sea of Infinite Content!
It’s become clear that we’re heading into a world of infinite content – as if we aren’t already drowning in that sea of meaningless, automatically generated content. What was once a seemingly manageable stream of books, websites, and media is becoming a overwhelming tidal wave, threatening to erode the shores of human creativity. The age of innovation is impacted.
What’s moving us from today’s world of “just a lot” to our future of “way too much”? Why do I say we’re drowning in a sea of infinite content?
In two words: generative AI.
Since the launch last fall of ChatGPT (and many similar tools), it’s become increasing clear that we can now use these tools to churn out endless repetitive, low quality content. Indeed they can create spammy nonsense for themselves, with no regard for truth or diversity. All that matters is predicting the best next word.
The focus is on quantity over quality. So much garbage is being produced that it’s becoming harder to find meaningful information and creative art amidst the noise. Useful voices are being drowned out by the drone of algorithmic imitation of what’s already popular.
There is also the risk of misinformation as fake AI-generated content spreads. Propaganda and radicalization loom as nefarious actors exploit these tools. Jobs in creative fields disappear as AI replaces human creators and artists.
All this tidal wave of endless content needs is electricity. Power. And ever more semiconductors.
Where does this path lead us? What will become of creativity and originality if AI takes over? We must question how to harness infinite content ethically to serve humanity, not overwhelm it. The age of human innovation cannot be allowed to end under a sea of meaningless artificial content. We cannot lose what makes us human.
How can we ensure these technologies are used responsibly? How can we stem the tide before it’s too late? The debates must begin now.
And where will all of that power – and all of those semiconductors – come from?
As part of his introduction of the new Ideaverse sample vault for Obsidian, Nick Milo has focused on the difference between projects versus efforts – and has settled on using the Efforts name for one of the folders in his new ACE folder structure. Efforts are different from projects and Nick believes that name is better suited to be part of a PKM system. In his fourth video introducing Ideaverse Nick Milo noted: “Why do some projects get done, and other projects get stuck? It might be because projects don’t work well with ideas.”
Of late I’ve enjoyed bouncing ideas around with Claude, the chatbot from Anthropic. I asked Claude to help me understand the differences between projects and efforts by writing a musing on that. I found Claude’s response quite useful:
Projects and efforts both require time, energy, and focus to accomplish something, but they have some key differences.
Projects are more defined, with a specific scope, timeline, and set of objectives. They have a clear beginning and a desired end result. Efforts are more open-ended, without rigid parameters. An effort may continue indefinitely as part of an ongoing process.
Projects follow a linear progression, with planning, execution, and completion phases. Efforts evolve organically, with starts and stops, detours, and gradual refinements. Projects aim to produce a deliverable, while efforts may have less tangible outcomes.
Projects can be handled individually or by teams. Efforts often involve loose collections of people contributing in diverse ways over time. Projects have project managers overseeing them. Efforts lack that formal hierarchical structure.
When projects finish, they are done. Efforts may pause or change direction, but they often persist in some form. We celebrate project launches and project completions. Efforts reflect continuous investment without fanfare.
Both projects and efforts require diligence and group coordination. But projects allow for more top-down control to keep work narrowly defined. Efforts rely more on bottom-up participation, following passion and drawing in a wide base of support.
In essence, projects impose structure on objectives, while efforts supply energy to ambitions. Both are vital and mutually reinforcing. A singular project can advance an expansive effort, just as an ongoing effort can spawn many delimited projects over time. By balancing closed-ended projects and open-ended efforts, we can direct our limited resources toward achievements with lasting impact.
Interacting with an AI assistant like Claude is a two-way conversation. To get the most out of your digital assistant, you need to know how to provide useful prompts that set it up for success. Follow these prompt writing tips when chatting with your AI:
Be Direct and Clear
Don’t beat around the bush when posing questions or requests to your AI assistant. Vague or ambiguous prompts will lead to vague and ambiguous responses from the AI. Get straight to the point and be as specific as possible about what you want it to do. Break down complex instructions into simple, step-by-step prompts to guide the AI.
Provide Sufficient Background
Don’t assume your AI assistant has any implied common sense or knowledge about your request. The AI only knows what’s in its training data! Give sufficient background and context in your prompts to set the AI up to respond appropriately. If you’re asking about a specific person or event the AI isn’t likely familiar with, give a brief explanation.
Ask Focused Questions
Open-ended questions can sometimes lead your chatbot down useless tangents. If you want specific info, ask specific follow-up questions rather than overly broad ones. You’ll get better results by being laser-focused on the information you need.
Check Responses and Follow Up
Your AI assistant is learning all the time. Check its responses to see if they actually provide what you were looking for, and follow up if it seems off track. You can rephrase your original prompt or ask clarifying questions to get the AI back on a useful path. Consider it a collaborative process.
Test the Limits
Feel free to get creative in testing the limits of your AI assistant’s capabilities. Novel prompts encourage the AI to expand what it can handle. Just be sure to provide plenty of guidance and background if you’re requesting something unusual or complex.
Give Your AI a Role to Play
When chatting with your AI assistant, it can be hugely beneficial to explicitly give it a role to play, such as teacher, travel agent, cooking assistant, or even friend. Defining a role provides necessary context that your AI needs to adapt its responses and language appropriately.
Without any framing, your assistant has no way of knowing how to act or what kind of information you need. A vague conversation with an undefined AI assistant can quickly go off the rails. But when you assign a clear role, it focuses the dialogue and reduces misunderstandings.
The role you give your AI doesn’t have to be rigid or limiting. Think of it as providing a general framing, tone, and personality that fits your needs for that particular conversation. Just tell your assistant “Act as my tutor and explain this concept to me.” Or “Pretend you’re a museum tour guide and describe this painting.”
Taking on a role allows your AI to access the right knowledge, terminology, and communication style to have a productive, natural dialogue. With the power of role-playing, your AI assistant can become an even more effective conversation partner!
Some Prompt Examples You Can Try
To see your AI assistant’s skills in action, give some longer, more descriptive prompts like these a try:
“Imagine you are an art museum tour guide named Sam leading a group through the impressionist gallery. In an enthusiastic but professional tone, explain the key characteristics of Monet’s painting style and describe what makes his Water Lilies painting a quintessential example of impressionism.”
“Act as a friendly chess tutor named Alex teaching me, a novice player, strategies for the first 10 moves as white in a classic game opening. Use simple, straightforward language to clearly explain the objectives of different standard openings and why they are solid foundational openings for white.”
“Pretend you are a home repair specialist named Jamie and I’m a customer needing help fixing my broken kitchen faucet. Walk me step-by-step through how to remove the faucet handle, disassemble and inspect the internal parts, replace any faulty washers or O-rings, and reassemble everything to get the faucet working again.”
“You’re an accomplished pastry chef named Pat teaching me how to bake chocolate chip cookies from scratch. Explain in a warm, patient tone the key steps from mixing dry and wet ingredients properly to getting the baking time and temperature right. Share any tips to ensure the cookies turn out perfectly chewy.”
“Imagine you are a professional genealogist named Gene helping me trace my ancestry. I’ve hit a roadblock finding records about my great-grandfather who I believe was born in Ireland around 1885 before immigrating to New York City. In a warm, encouraging tone provide step-by-step guidance for how to locate passenger manifests, naturalization records, birth/marriage/death certificates, and other documents that could shed light on his origins and immigration journey. Feel free to ask clarifying questions if you need any additional details from me. Your role is to patiently coach me through breaking through this genealogy brick wall using targeted record searches.”
Prompt for Haiku
To showcase your AI’s creative writing skills, try a prompt like:
“Write a haiku poem about viewing cherry blossoms in spring. Describe the delicate pink flowers blooming on branches and scattering in the wind. Convey a tranquil, reflective mood. Follow the 5-7-5 haiku structure with 3 lines and appropriate season word.”
This provides context about the haiku’s theme, asks the AI to use descriptive language and imagery, gives guidance on mood and structure, and defines the specific creative writing form. Framing poetic prompts in this way allows your AI to tap into its artistic expression. You can guide it to compose haiku, limericks, sonnets, and more on any topic you choose!
Giving longer prompts with more conversational detail and specific instructions allows your AI assistant to generate richer, more natural responses. Don’t be afraid to really set the scene and adopt a persona when framing your requests! For even more, see my post Multi-step prompting for Claude.
Please share what you’ve learned about effective prompts that you’ve discovered!
Credit: Drafted with the assistance of Claude, an AI assistant created by Anthropic.
Abstract surface of Multicolored splash watercolor blot. Artistic hand-painted vector, element for banner, poster, card, cover, brochure.
On my walk this morning I listened to the latest episode of Cal Newport’s podcast Deep Questions which was about “creativity hacking”. He reviewed a couple of his techniques, shared a few links to good articles related to the topic, etc. For example, he talked about using different venues for working – such as moving between multiple locations in a single day. He cited several other techniques that he’s used all of which involved helping lift your mind out of the mundane to stimulate its ability to get creative.
Listening to Cal stimulated my mind to make the bridge between something like working on a whiteboard in front of a group of colleagues and, in lieu of humans, working on a topic with an AI chatbot like Claude, Bard, ChatGPT, etc.
I’m drawn to this approach because of just how low the overhead is to start to use chatbots for helping in my thinking and creativity processes. Unlike other humans, the chatbots are always available – 24×7 – and generally they’re pleasant and polite to interact with. Sometimes humans are too but they can also be unpleasant and impolite!
The speed of the interaction with a chatbot is probably slower than with another human or group of humans but I don’t find that to be an issue. In some ways, the ability to just pause, give me time to think, and then interact again with a chatbot is more pleasant and completely eliminates any peer pressure I might be feeling.
I can also use chatbots to respond to challenging questions I might ask or have it brainstorm wild ideas, or roleplay different perspectives – all of which help to get my creative juices flowing. A friend would do the same – but, again, the low overhead nature of creativity hacking with a chatbot is very attractive to me. I can also spread my chatbot interactions around between the various AI chatbots. They’ll bring different perspectives, just like a group of my friends might. I might also ask a chatbot to help me think about an idea from the perspective of a particular historical figure (e.g., “what would Steve Jobs say about this idea?”).
I’m increasingly finding the benefits of this chatbot approach helping me in my creative work. For example, while writing this blog post, I asked for a critique of it from one of the chatbots. Over a few interactions, I was able to gain some new insights to include which hopefully made it even better.
Update: this morning Andrew Chen posted a great article titled “How I use AI when blogging and writing” which explores his experiences using AI chatbots to help with blog posts, generating topic ideas/questions, and even starting a book outline. Definitely worth reading!
Having an interest in posting more to my blog, I’ve started playing with chatbots to help with ideas, etc. In particular, I’ve found Claude.ai to be quite a partner. Over the last few days, when I’ve come across an idea, perhaps a quote I liked, etc., I would flip over to Claude and start a prompt with: “write a musing on the following…”
Claude will quickly respond with a few paragraphs riffing on that idea. I can then add to it, perhaps argue with a point it made, bring in additional thoughts, etc. and it continues to help me flesh out my own thoughts that were triggered by that idea. Once I’ve had that conversation, I’ll copy it into Drafts and let it chill for a day or two before going back to it and seeing whether I want to pick it up for a blog post.
In my experience, Claude is better than ChatGPT, Google Bard, etc. for this kind of “conversation” with me. But I’m sure everyone’s mileage may vary – and it could also be that this kind of creative back and forth isn’t what you’re looking for or don’t find helpful. Again, for me, it all begins with challenging the chatbot to “write a musing on the following…”
I just started reading the book Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara that was recommended on a recent podcast by Ted Seides. As a began reading the book, I was struck by his opening gambit:
Service Is Black and White; Hospitality Is Color.
In photography, I’ve learned to really appreciate the differences between black and white vs color images. When I started making images, I defaulted to color simply because that’s what digital cameras (and smartphones) do. Monochrome isn’t a natural mode for digital photography – it’s a post-processing technique that you might use for certain images. The difference can be striking between the color version vs the black and white version of the same image. I like to think of that conversion as one of reducing the “noise” in the image – color being often overwhelming to our senses. A conversion to monochrome changes the sense of the image to one more about light and shadow, composition, etc. Color on the other hand might be more useful in showing layering in an image.
So Guidara’s phrase “service is black and white; hospitality is color” really struck me. There’s more of a sense of good vs bad – or perhaps it’s good enough vs superlative in that phrase. I wanted to explore it a bit further outside of the book. As I’m doing more frequently these days when I want to do that, I asked a couple of my favorite chatbots for their thoughts on that statement. ChatGPT provided the following:
Certainly, the theme you’ve provided, “Service Is Black and White; Hospitality Is Color,” appears to draw a distinction between two related yet distinct concepts. It seems to suggest that while “service” might involve straightforward actions and procedures, “hospitality” brings a more nuanced and personalized dimension to interactions.
In the context of a restaurant, the theme “Service Is Black and White; Hospitality Is Color” takes on a compelling connotation. The differentiation becomes clearer when examining the roles that service and hospitality play in creating a memorable dining experience.
Service in a restaurant setting often involves the execution of predefined tasks and procedures, such as taking orders, delivering food, and processing payments. This aspect can be seen as “black and white” due to its standardized nature and the clear expectations associated with each step. A well-trained staff ensures efficiency and accuracy in these operational tasks, forming the foundation of a smoothly run establishment.
On the other hand, hospitality introduces the element of personalization and emotional connection to the dining experience, akin to the vibrant spectrum of colors. Hospitality encompasses the warmth, attentiveness, and genuine care that staff extend to patrons. It’s the art of making guests feel welcome, valued, and understood. This involves going beyond the basic service requirements to cater to individual preferences, anticipate needs, and create a memorable and delightful ambiance.
Hospitality adds that extra layer of authenticity that transforms a simple meal into an unforgettable event. The color it brings to the dining experience lies in the personalized interactions, the establishment’s unique ambiance, and the thoughtful gestures that make guests feel special. It’s about creating a narrative that goes beyond the mere transaction and leaves a lasting impression on the patrons.
In essence, while service forms the backbone of any restaurant operation, hospitality infuses it with personality, emotion, and connection. The interplay between the two is crucial; a well-balanced combination of efficient service and heartfelt hospitality is what elevates a restaurant from being merely functional to being an extraordinary destination that patrons want to return to.
This was a good discussion. I next turned to Claude:
Service gives customers what they paid for. Hospitality gives them an experience that exceeds expectations, one they’ll fondly remember and recommend to others. It builds an emotional connection through thoughtful gestures and anticipating needs.
While service is essential, hospitality is what transforms a transactional exchange into a meaningful relationship. Going beyond the black and white of service to offer the colorful hospitality touches conveys care and humanizes interactions, making people feel truly welcomed and valued.
I really liked this perspective and immediately began thinking about local restaurants in our area and where have we had dining experiences involving more than just good service – where we left feeling we really had a relationship with the place.
This was another step in my exploration of AI chatbots – how I’m beginning to see how to use them in ways well beyond simple searches on a search engine. I’m continuing to explore!…
I was intrigued by this sentence in a recent column by Bloomberg’s Matt Levine: The stereotypical way that a management consulting interview works is that you get asked questions like “how much pepperoni is sold in the US every year,” and then you reason your way to some estimate of the answer.
When I read this, I thought it would be fun to play with my favorite chatbots again and see if they might help me reason my way to an answer. I got very different results – not surprisingly. The prompt I used was:
The stereotypical way that a management consulting interview works is that you get asked questions like “how much pepperoni is sold in the US every year,” and then you reason your way to some estimate of the answer. Let’s reason step by step to try to find an answer to this question.
First, here’s what I got back from Google Bard:
Sure, here is a step-by-step process of how to reason our way to an estimate of how much pepperoni is sold in the US every year:
Gather some basic facts. We know that the average American eats 24 pounds of pizza per year, and that pepperoni is the most popular pizza topping, accounting for about 30% of all pizza orders. We also know that there are about 330 million people in the US.
Make some assumptions. We need to make some assumptions about how much pepperoni is used per pizza. A conservative estimate might be that each pizza uses 1 ounce of pepperoni. This means that the average American eats about 2.4 ounces of pepperoni per year.
Do some math. We can now estimate that the total amount of pepperoni sold in the US every year is about 800 million ounces. This is equivalent to about 250 million pounds.
This is just an estimate, of course, but it is based on some reasonable assumptions. It is likely that the actual amount of pepperoni sold in the US is higher than this, but it is also possible that it is lower. More accurate estimates could be made by collecting more data and making more refined assumptions.
Here are some additional factors that could be considered to improve the accuracy of the estimate:
The amount of pepperoni used per pizza can vary depending on the size of the pizza, the type of pizza, and the restaurant.
The popularity of pepperoni may vary from region to region in the US.
The amount of pepperoni imported into the US may also be a factor.
By considering these factors, it is possible to make a more accurate estimate of the amount of pepperoni sold in the US every year.
Next up was ChatGPT:
Of course, I’d be glad to guide you through the process of reasoning to estimate the amount of pepperoni sold in the US every year. It’s important to note that management consulting interviews often focus on assessing your problem-solving skills and ability to think logically. Let’s break down the problem step by step:
Step 1: Clarify the Scope Before we begin, it’s essential to clarify the scope of the question. Are we looking for the total weight of pepperoni sold, or the total revenue generated from its sales? This distinction will influence the data sources we’ll need to consider.
Step 2: Identify Relevant Data Sources To estimate the amount of pepperoni sold in the US, we’ll need to gather data from reliable sources. These could include industry reports, government statistics, market research firms, and food industry associations. Some possible sources might be the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and organizations like the American Meat Institute.
Step 3: Estimate Total Consumption One approach could be to start with the total meat consumption in the US and then estimate what percentage of that is likely to be pepperoni. You might need to consider factors such as the popularity of pizza, sandwiches, and other dishes that use pepperoni. Additionally, think about variations in consumption due to cultural and regional preferences.
Step 4: Break Down Consumption Break down the total estimated consumption of pepperoni into categories such as retail sales (supermarkets and grocery stores) and food service (restaurants, pizzerias, etc.). This can help refine your estimate by considering different distribution channels.
Step 5: Estimate Quantity per Serving and Servings Estimate the average quantity of pepperoni used per serving. For example, how many slices of pepperoni are typically used on a pizza or in a sandwich? Then, multiply this by the estimated number of servings sold in a year.
Step 6: Adjust for Factors Consider any factors that might affect the estimate, such as seasonal variations in consumption (for instance, more pepperoni might be consumed during holidays or certain events) or any recent trends that might have impacted consumption patterns.
Step 7: Calculate the Estimate With all these factors in mind, you can proceed to calculate your estimate. Make sure to show your calculations and assumptions clearly.
Step 8: Validate and Compare After arriving at your estimate, it’s a good practice to validate it against any available data, if possible. Compare your estimate to industry reports or official statistics to assess its accuracy.
Remember, the goal of this exercise is not necessarily to arrive at an exact figure, but to showcase your ability to logically reason through a complex problem using available information. Feel free to ask questions if you need further clarification on any of these steps.
Next up is Claude:
Okay, let’s break this down:
First, we need to estimate how much pizza is sold in the US each year. Pizza is a very popular food, so let’s assume that on average, each American eats pizza once per week. With a population of around 330 million, that’s about 330 million pizzas sold per week, or around 17 billion pizzas per year.
Next, we need to estimate what percentage of those pizzas have pepperoni. Pepperoni is a very common pizza topping, so let’s assume it’s on 50% of all pizzas sold. That brings us to around 8.5 billion pepperoni pizzas per year.
Now we need to estimate how much pepperoni is on each pizza. Let’s assume an average pepperoni pizza has around 50 pepperoni slices. If each slice is roughly 1 ounce, that’s about 50 ounces or around 3 pounds of pepperoni per pizza.
With 8.5 billion pepperoni pizzas per year, each with around 3 pounds of pepperoni, that gives us an estimate of around 25.5 billion pounds of pepperoni sold annually in the US.
Of course this is just a rough estimate with a lot of assumptions. The actual amount may vary quite a bit. But walking through the logical steps and making reasonable assumptions is generally the approach for these types of brainteaser questions. Let me know if this helps explain the thought process!
Finally is Bing Chat:
That’s an interesting question. To estimate how much pepperoni is sold in the US every year, we can use some assumptions and data from the web search results. Here are some possible steps to follow:
First, we can assume that most of the pepperoni sold in the US is used as a pizza topping, since it is one of the most popular pizza toppings.
Second, we can use the data from 7 to estimate how much pepperoni is used on a pizza of different sizes. For example, a 12-inch pizza uses about 1.75 ounces of pepperoni, and a 18-inch pizza uses about 3 ounces of pepperoni.
Third, we can use the data from 6 to estimate how many pizzas are sold in the US each year. According to this source, there are 3 billion pizzas sold in the US each year.
Fourth, we can use the data from 13 to estimate what percentage of pizzas ordered are pepperoni. According to this source, 36% of people order pepperoni on their pizzas.
Fifth, we can multiply the number of pizzas sold by the percentage of pepperoni pizzas, and then multiply by the average amount of pepperoni per pizza. To simplify the calculation, we can assume that the average pizza size is 14 inches, which uses about 2.5 ounces of pepperoni according to 7.
Therefore, the estimated amount of pepperoni sold in the US each year is:
3 billion x 0.36 x 2.5 = 2.7 billion ounces
To convert this to pounds, we can divide by 16, since there are 16 ounces in a pound. This gives us:
2.7 billion / 16 = 168.75 million pounds
This is our final answer, based on the assumptions and data we used. Of course, this is only an approximation, and there may be other factors that affect the actual amount of pepperoni sold in the US each year.
I hope this helps you understand how to approach this kind of question. Do you have any other questions for me? 😊
Bard estimated 250 million pounds. Claude estimated 25.5 million pounds. Bing estimated 168.75 million pounds. ChatGPT didn’t provide an estimate – it just discussed a methodology to get to an answer (which is what’s more important in a job interview!).
What’s the correct answer? Some quick Google searching finds results around 250 million pounds a year – closest to Bard’s answer.
What can we learn from this little exercise? I would have expected both Bard and Bing Chat to have an advantage as they’re both capable of doing web searches while ChatGPT (3.5) and Claude aren’t. Bing actually cites specific web references. But the most useful result actually isn’t the final value – all of the chatbots demonstrated steps to go through to get to an answer and it’s the ability to demonstrate those steps that answers the interview question. I’m sure by continuing each of the conversations I could have gotten more insights from each of the chatbots. Meanwhile, I’m now hungry for a pepperoni pizza!
There’s little new under the sun. Everything is a remix. As writers, we like to think our work is wholly original. But let’s be honest. All creative writing builds upon what came before it. Even the most innovative stories contain elements and ideas that the author over a lifetime was inspired by or outright borrowed from others.
The key is to steal wisely as a writer – to take existing concepts and put your own unique spin on them. Follow this three-step framework for effective remixing in your writing:
Study source material you enjoy to closely to identify specific aspects to borrow. Make sure you understand the context.
Extract the elements that appeal to you or support your goals. Don’t just copy verbatim. Be intentional.
Transform the borrowed elements by modifying, combining and recontextualizing. Add your own flair, your extensions, your new ideas.
All writers absorb influence from the world around them. You can take inspiration from the tone of a novel, the pacing of a movie, or the imagery used in a poem. Combine and rework these elements into something new.
For example, you could:
Use a Shakespearean soliloquy as inspiration for a monologue, modifying the language to be more modern.
Borrow storytelling techniques from folklore when crafting a fantasy saga, putting your own twist on the archetypes.
Adapt the fragmented style of modernist poetry when writing song lyrics.
The most innovative writers stand on the shoulders of those who came before them. As Austin Kleon says, “Nothing is completely original. Steal from anywhere that resonates with inspiration or fuels your imagination.” So don’t be afraid to openly steal – just be sure to transform and recontextualize rather than completely copy.
Study writing you admire and incorporate aspects into your own voice and vision. There are endless possibilities if you steal thoughtfully and fearlessly to fuel your creativity. By skillfully pilfering from the world around you, you can develop stories that feel uniquely your own. We do it all the time.
Some may argue this remixing approach borders on plagiarism. But there is an important distinction. Plagiarism is passing off someone else’s work in its entirety as your own. Strategic stealing involves taking select elements of a work and transforming them into something new through your personal creative lens. It’s about synthesizing a wide range of influences, not duplicating a single source. You put your own identifiable stamp on the end result.
Of course, you still need to credit your sources where appropriate. But influence and inspiration are not the same as plagiarism. Borrowing sparks of creativity from the world around you to generate innovative new writing is fair game and legal. As Pablo Picasso famously stated, “Good artists copy, great artists steal.” Masterful stealing will make you a better, more original writer.
Chatbots like Bard, ChatGPT and Claude can actually help facilitate this remix process and stimulate creative thinking to improve your writing. Here are five tips for putting chatbots to work as your creative muse:
Use them to brainstorm fresh ideas by describing a vague prompt and letting the chatbot riff on possibilities.
Ask them to rework a piece of writing in a radically different style or genre. The new perspective may spark inspiration.
Request examples of compelling imagery, metaphors, dialogue, etc. that you can borrow and rework.
Have them recombine elements from multiple sources into an original outline or draft you can develop further.
Ask for critiques of your writing to identify weak spots and areas for improvement you may not have noticed.
Chatbots won’t write the full piece for you, but they can assist at the ideation stage and provide seeds of inspiration through unique remixing. Don’t be afraid to steal any intriguing suggestions they propose! With practice, you’ll develop skills to remix writing on your own in innovative ways.
In fact, this whole blog post was co-authored by me and Claude based on some insights I took away from this article: Stealing Your Way to Original Designs! Matt Ragland‘s newsletter this morning pointed me to that article and made the initial connection. While reading it I was reminded of Austin Kleon’s earlier work “Steal Like an Artist”. Then I engaged Claude to help me draft this post. All in all, it took me about 10 minutes to write.
I’ve been experimenting with all of that available chatbots including Google’s Bard, OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing Chat, and Anthropic’s Claude. A few days ago I was playing with Claude when I decided I’d try to learn more about multi-step prompting.
A recent video with Ethan Mollick emphasized that we tend to overemphasize initial prompts – looking for the “perfect prompt” – when what really adds value to a chatbot result isn’t the perfect initial prompt but rather the interaction you have with the chatbot. In other words, just like with an real intern, the conversational back and forth is what really adds to the learning and understanding from a session. I’ve begun applying this approach more regularly as I continue exploring these amazing new tools.
Below is the result of my back and forth conversation with Claude as I tried to learn more about the best practices for multistep prompting.
Introduction: The Power of Multistep Prompting
When conversing with Claude, you can get much more natural, detailed responses by using multistep prompts. This technique involves breaking down complex requests into multiple simpler follow-up prompts, rather than asking lengthy, dense questions all at once.
For example, instead of saying:
“Claude, can you tell me about the major battles of World War 2 fought by American troops in the European theater, with a focus on key events like the Normandy invasion?”
You would ask:
“Claude, what were the major battles American troops fought in during World War 2 in Europe?”
Then based on Claude’s initial response mentioning D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge you could ask focused follow-ups like:
“Can you provide more details on the D-Day invasion?”
“What happened at the Battle of the Bulge and why was it significant?”
This prompts Claude to provide more detailed, robust responses on a specific aspect of your original broad question. Chaining these bite-sized prompts together allows for a natural dialogue where you guide the conversation based on Claude’s replies.
The rest of this post will provide tips to help you get the most out of using multistep prompts to have engaging, productive conversations with Claude. Let’s get started!
Tip 1: Start with a Focused Initial Prompt
When first engaging Claude, begin with a clear, concise prompt setting the context. For example:
“Claude, can you recommend a good sci-fi movie from the last few years that has cool visual effects?”
Starting the conversation with a specific question about the type of movie you want gets better results than a vague prompt like “Let’s talk about movies.” It provides Claude with clear criteria to focus its initial response on recent sci-fi films with great special effects.
Tip 2: Ask One Question at a Time
Deconstruct big requests into individual follow-up prompts. Asking “What were the major events of WW2 and how did technology impact them?” overloads Claude. Instead try:
“What were the major events of WW2?”
“How did technology like radar and rockets impact these events?”
Simpler prompts allow more detailed, thoughtful responses from Claude.
Tip 3: Build on Previous Responses
Review Claude’s last response before asking your next prompt. For example:
You: “Who were Apple’s founders?”
Claude: “Apple was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne.”
You: “What specific contributions did Steve Wozniak make to Apple?”
This builds a logical flow and conversation.
Tip 4: Clarify When Confused
If Claude’s response doesn’t make sense, politely ask for clarification before moving on:
You: “What was the impact of Midway on WW2?”
Claude: “The Battle of Midway enabled the Allies to gain the upper hand in the Pacific theater.”
You: “I don’t understand how Midway gave the Allies an advantage. Can you explain that more clearly?”
Don’t just accept unclear responses. Ask follow ups to get back on track.
Tip 5: Change Direction Based on Responses
Let Claude’s replies guide where you take the conversation next…
Tip 6: Periodically Summarize Key Facts
Restating important details helps ensure Claude stays on topic. For example:
You: “Can you tell me about the first airplane flight?”
Claude provides response.
You: “So the Wright brothers flew for the first time in 1903 in Kitty Hawk. What happened next in early aviation?”
Summarizing facts focuses the dialogue and confirms Claude’s understanding.
Tip 7: Keep Conversations 3-5 Prompts Long
Try to complete conversations within 3-5 focused prompts. For example:
Prompt 1: Ask for book recommendations
Prompt 2: Clarify if you want fiction or non-fiction books
Prompt 3: Ask for more details on a specific recommended book
Prompt 4: Thank Claude and end the conversation
While more than 5 exchanges often indicates a disjointed or unclear goal, I often end with a final prompt to the effect of “Is there anything else I should know or try to understand?” In other words, remember perhaps there’s “one more thing!”
Tip 8: Wrap Up with a Summary
End conversations by asking Claude to summarize its overall response:
You: “Can you please summarize the key points you mentioned about World War 2?”
This provides a clean conclusion to the dialogue.
Tip 9: Provide Feedback if Responses Seem Off
If Claude seems confused or makes incorrect statements, politely clarify to improve its training:
You: “I asked about D-Day, but your response seems to be about a different battle. Can you please double check your information about D-Day?”
This constructive input helps Claude improve.
Tip 10: Practice Makes Perfect
Have fun practicing multistep conversations on topics like movies, recipes, sports, current events, trivia, and product recommendations. The more you use prompts and follow-ups, the more natural conversations will become.
Taking It to the Next Level: Advanced Multistep Prompting
While effective for everyday conversations, multistep prompts can also enable advanced, niche uses of Claude you may not have considered:
Foreign Language Translation – Claude has some ability to translate between languages when you provide context. Try prompts like:
“Claude, can you translate this Spanish phrase into English: ‘¿Cómo estás?'”
Poetry – Claude can generate original poetry if you guide it. Prompt it to start a poem, suggest a topic, and refine the wording.
Research Assistance – Ask Claude to find and summarize information on obscure topics:
“Claude, can you research the ancient Sumerian civilization and summarize their key achievements?”
Creative Writing – Claude can craft short stories if you provide plot points and characters. Slowly build up a narrative through prompts.
Joke Telling – Give Claude a topic and have it come up with witty, original jokes through multistep exchanges.
Troubleshooting – Walk through a technical problem by describing symptoms and responding to Claude’s follow-up questions.
The possibilities are endless when you get creative with prompts! The key is providing context and steering the conversation to get Claude’s best work.
Conclusion: The Key is Conversation
The core takeaway is that multistep prompting allows for genuine back-and-forth conversation with Claude. Start applying these tips to your prompts and soon you’ll be chatting with Claude like an old friend! I’d love to hear of any other multistep best practices you discover. Now go have some fun conversations with Claude or your other favorite chatbot!
I was playing around with some prompts for AI chatbots and started trying a few on ChatGPT (3.5 turbo). I went down quite a rabbit hole exploring what was possible – and enjoyed myself every step of the way! This is a long – but fun – post of my “beach read” excursion to Aptos, a town south of Santa Cruz on the California coast – and also the name chosen for Microsoft’s new default Office font!
In this post, you can follow along as I provide ChatGPT with some basic story line elements and it goes to work crafting the elements of my short story. It illustrates one of the uses of AI chatbots that avoids the hallucination problems – namely using chatbots to help be creative by assisting in just making things up!
Here we go…come along for the adventures of Izzy and Alex. I’ve bolded my prompts, the rest is generated by ChatGPT:
What are the 10 keys to writing a compelling beach read.
Sure! Here are 10 keys to writing a compelling beach read:
Engaging Characters: Create relatable and likable characters that readers can connect with.
Fast-Paced Plot: Keep the story moving with a captivating and exciting plot that keeps readers hooked.
Descriptive Settings: Transport readers to the beach or coastal locations with vivid and immersive descriptions.
Humor and Wit: Infuse humor and wit to add light-heartedness and entertainment to the story.
Emotional Depth: Develop emotional depth in your characters and explore their feelings and relationships.
Page-Turning Cliffhangers: End chapters with enticing cliffhangers to encourage readers to keep reading.
Romance and Intrigue: Incorporate elements of romance and intrigue to add spice to the story.
Relatable Themes: Address themes like friendship, self-discovery, or summer adventures that resonate with readers.
Natural Dialogue: Write natural-sounding dialogue that reflects the characters’ personalities and drives the story forward.
Positive Vibes: Infuse the narrative with positive vibes and a sense of joy, making it perfect for a beach getaway.
Keep these elements in mind, and you’ll be on your way to crafting a compelling beach read!
What are the best locations? How would you rank location criteria?
The best locations for a beach read can vary depending on personal preferences, but some popular choices include:
Tropical Islands: These include places like the Maldives, Bali, or the Caribbean, known for their crystal-clear waters, palm-fringed beaches, and exotic landscapes.
Mediterranean Coast: Locations like the French Riviera, Amalfi Coast, or Greek Islands offer stunning beaches, charming villages, and rich cultural experiences.
Hawaiian Islands: Hawaii’s diverse islands provide a mix of lush scenery, volcanic landscapes, and beautiful beaches.
Australian Beaches: Australia’s coastline is famous for its sandy beaches, great surf spots, and unique wildlife.
California Coast: From Malibu to Santa Barbara, California offers picturesque beaches and a laid-back atmosphere.
Southeast Asian Beaches: Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines boast beautiful beaches, warm weather, and vibrant cultures.
Florida Beaches: Florida’s Gulf Coast and Atlantic Coast provide a wide range of beach experiences, from family-friendly to party hotspots.
South African Coastline: Places like Cape Town offer beautiful beaches along with opportunities for wildlife encounters.
When ranking location criteria for a beach read, consider the following factors:
Scenic Beauty: How visually appealing and picturesque is the location? Stunning landscapes can enhance the reading experience.
Cultural Richness: Is the location rich in history, traditions, and local customs, adding depth to the setting?
Climate and Season: Consider the weather and season, as this can affect the ambiance and activities at the beach.
Accessibility: Locations that are easy to travel to and explore may resonate with more readers.
Diversity of Experiences: A location with various activities, such as water sports, sightseeing, and nightlife, can add versatility to the story.
Unique Attractions: Look for destinations with distinctive landmarks or features that can become integral to the plot.
Local Cuisine: Incorporate regional dishes and culinary experiences to immerse readers in the local culture.
Romance Factor: Some locations naturally evoke a sense of romance and allure, which can complement the story’s themes.
By considering these criteria, you can select a beach setting that complements your story and captivates readers.
How about Aptos California?
Aptos, California, is a charming coastal town located in Santa Cruz County. It offers a beautiful beach setting, making it a potentially appealing location for a beach read. Here’s a brief overview of why Aptos could be a great choice:
Scenic Beauty: Aptos boasts stunning coastal landscapes, with sandy beaches, rocky shores, and picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean.
Relaxed Atmosphere: The laid-back vibe of Aptos provides a perfect backdrop for a leisurely and enjoyable beach read.
Local Charm: The town’s small-town charm, beachside cafes, and coastal trails create a warm and inviting setting for readers.
Coastal Activities: Aptos offers opportunities for beachcombing, surfing, and other water-based activities that can be woven into the story.
Nearby Attractions: With close proximity to Santa Cruz and the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, there are additional settings and activities to explore.
Mild Climate: Aptos enjoys a mild coastal climate, making it an ideal location for beach-themed storytelling year-round.
Coastal Wildlife: The area’s diverse wildlife, including marine life and birds, can add interesting elements to the narrative.
Sense of Community: Aptos’s friendly community can inspire themes of friendship and connection in the beach read.
Overall, Aptos, California, offers a blend of natural beauty, coastal charm, and recreational activities that could make it an excellent location choice for a compelling beach read.
Ok. Let’s create two characters to begin.
Certainly! Let’s create two characters for our beach read:
Character 1: Isabella “Izzy” Harper
Age: 28
Occupation: Travel blogger and aspiring novelist
Personality: Adventurous, free-spirited, and optimistic
Backstory: Izzy grew up in a small coastal town, always dreaming of exploring the world. After college, she became a travel blogger, documenting her adventures and seeking inspiration for her dream of writing a novel. She’s determined to find her voice as a writer while discovering the meaning of true love.
Character 2: Alex Matthews
Age: 30
Occupation: Marine biologist and beach conservationist
Personality: Caring, intelligent, and a bit reserved
Backstory: Alex has dedicated his life to studying marine life and protecting coastal ecosystems. Growing up near the ocean, he developed a deep connection to the sea and feels a responsibility to preserve its beauty. Despite being passionate about his work, he struggles with opening up emotionally due to past heartbreak.
These two characters will cross paths in Aptos, California, where Izzy’s wanderlust leads her, and Alex continues his efforts to protect the local marine life. Their distinct personalities and backgrounds will create an interesting dynamic as they navigate personal growth, romance, and the challenges they face in their chosen paths. As their lives intersect, their journey will unfold against the backdrop of the scenic coastal town, offering plenty of opportunities for adventure, self-discovery, and, of course, romance.
Let’s create a place where they meet.
“The Sea Glass Café & Conservation Center”
Let’s create a place where Izzy and Alex meet:
Description: Nestled along the sandy shores of Aptos, California, “The Sea Glass Café & Conservation Center” is a unique beachfront establishment that perfectly captures the town’s coastal charm and dedication to marine conservation. The café features large panoramic windows that showcase breathtaking ocean views, providing a serene atmosphere where patrons can enjoy their meals or coffee while watching waves gently crash against the shore.
The interior is adorned with an array of sea glass art and marine-themed decor, creating a whimsical yet eco-friendly ambiance. The café’s sustainable practices reflect Alex’s commitment to protecting the environment, making it a popular spot for both locals and eco-conscious tourists.
At the heart of the café lies the “Conservation Corner,” a dedicated space where Alex hosts informative talks and educational workshops about marine life and beach conservation. Here, visitors can learn about the local marine ecosystem, get involved in community cleanup efforts, and even participate in sea turtle protection programs during nesting season.
The café’s menu features a delightful fusion of coastal cuisine and organic, locally-sourced ingredients. Signature dishes like the “Seaside Avocado Toast” and “Sustainable Seafood Platter” have become favorites among patrons, including Izzy, who often seeks inspiration for her writing while savoring the flavors of the sea.
The outdoor patio offers an inviting place to enjoy the fresh ocean breeze, and in the evenings, it transforms into a cozy spot where guests gather around a fire pit, swapping stories and stargazing over the vast Pacific.
It is within the warm and welcoming ambiance of “The Sea Glass Café & Conservation Center” that Izzy and Alex’s paths unexpectedly cross. As they engage in conversations about coastal conservation, share their dreams, and open up to one another, their connection begins to grow, setting the stage for a summer of self-discovery, romance, and the intertwining of their two worlds.
Ok it is time to write chapter 1. Let’s begin with Izzy arriving on her motorcycle.
Chapter 1: Unexpected Tides
Izzy gripped the handlebars of her weathered motorcycle as she rode into the coastal town of Aptos, her heart filled with excitement and a dash of trepidation. The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over the quaint streets and nearby beach. This picturesque scene was a far cry from the bustling city she was accustomed to.
The salty breeze tousled her hair as she parked her motorcycle near the entrance of “The Sea Glass Café & Conservation Center.” Dismounting with a smile, she took a moment to savor the fresh scent of the ocean mingled with the aroma of coffee and baked goods from the café.
Izzy had heard about this place from a fellow travel blogger, who spoke highly of the café’s ethically-sourced menu and its dedication to marine conservation. Intrigued, she had decided to visit Aptos in search of inspiration for her novel and, perhaps, a meaningful adventure along the way.
Pushing open the café door, Izzy stepped inside and felt an instant sense of tranquility. The sunlight streamed through the large windows, illuminating the sea glass art and marine-themed decor that adorned the walls. The gentle chatter of patrons, combined with the soothing crash of waves just outside, created an inviting ambiance.
As she approached the counter to order a cup of coffee, her eyes fell upon a bulletin board adorned with vibrant posters and photographs. The images depicted various beach cleanups, marine life rescues, and conservation events–all spearheaded by someone named Alex Matthews, a marine biologist and the driving force behind the café’s conservation efforts.
Izzy couldn’t help but be captivated by Alex’s dedication to the ocean and its creatures. She ordered her coffee, feeling a sense of admiration for this man she had yet to meet. It was as if their paths were destined to cross in this coastal haven.
With coffee in hand, she wandered towards the “Conservation Corner,” where she found an intimate gathering of locals and tourists attentively listening to Alex speak about the importance of preserving the local marine ecosystem. His voice was calm and measured, and his passion for the sea was evident in every word he spoke.
Lost in the moment, Izzy leaned against a wooden pillar, silently absorbing the wisdom Alex shared. There was something about his presence that drew her in–an inexplicable magnetic pull that she couldn’t ignore.
As the talk concluded, the audience dispersed, but Izzy lingered, nervously twirling a strand of hair. She mustered her courage and approached Alex, who was busy tidying up the conservation materials.
“Hi,” she began, a hint of hesitation in her voice. “I’m Isabella, but you can call me Izzy. I just arrived in Aptos, and I couldn’t help but overhear your talk. It was truly inspiring.”
Alex looked up, and a warm smile spread across his face. “I’m glad you enjoyed it. Welcome to Aptos, Izzy. I’m Alex, the marine biologist and conservationist here. It’s always great to meet someone who shares our passion for the ocean.”
Their eyes met, and in that moment, it felt as though the tide had turned. Little did they know that this chance meeting would mark the beginning of an unforgettable journey–one filled with adventure, self-discovery, and an unexpected romance, all amidst the backdrop of the sea’s ever-changing tides.
Ok. Time for chapter 2. Alex has to go to work and doesn’t have time for Izzy in this chapter. She’s anxious why he’s not available.
Chapter 2: Ebb and Flow
In the days that followed their first meeting, Izzy couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and anxiousness whenever she thought about Alex. Each morning, she found herself strolling towards “The Sea Glass Café & Conservation Center,” hoping to catch another glimpse of him. However, it seemed that fate had other plans, as Alex was always preoccupied with his work.
One particular morning, Izzy arrived at the café early, her heart fluttering with anticipation. She ordered her coffee, hoping that today might be different–that Alex would have a moment to spare. As she settled into a cozy corner, her eyes wandered to the conservation corner, where Alex usually held his talks and workshops.
But he was nowhere to be seen.
An uneasy feeling gnawed at Izzy as the minutes ticked by. She tried to dismiss her worries, telling herself that Alex must be busy with his marine conservation efforts. Still, her imagination couldn’t help but conjure up all sorts of scenarios–maybe he didn’t remember her, or worse, he wasn’t interested in getting to know her.
Determined not to let her anxious thoughts consume her, Izzy decided to distract herself by exploring the sandy shores of Aptos. She strolled along the beach, listening to the soothing rhythm of the waves. The sea seemed to mirror her emotions–calm one moment, turbulent the next.
As the day wore on, Izzy returned to the café, her heart hopeful yet uncertain. She couldn’t deny the growing connection she felt with Alex, but she also understood that his work was essential to him. Still, a part of her yearned for more–more moments shared, more conversations, and a chance to understand the man behind the marine biologist.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting hues of pink and orange across the sky, Izzy found herself back at the café. With a sigh, she settled into her favorite spot, gazing out at the ocean. The sea was ever-changing–just like her emotions.
Just then, the café door swung open, and Alex stepped inside. His face lit up when he saw Izzy, and a sense of relief washed over her.
“Izzy,” he said warmly, “I’m so sorry I couldn’t meet you earlier. It’s been a busy day with the conservation efforts, and I lost track of time.”
His genuine smile reassured her, and she replied, “No need to apologize, Alex. I understand how important your work is, and I admire your dedication to the ocean.”
As they sat together, Alex opened up about his passion for marine life and the challenges he faced in balancing work and personal life. Izzy listened intently, realizing that they were more alike than she had imagined–both driven by their dreams and yearning for a meaningful connection.
In that moment, Izzy understood that like the tides, life had its ebb and flow. Sometimes, circumstances might keep them apart, but she was willing to ride the waves of uncertainty if it meant exploring the depths of what could be with Alex.
As the night drew to a close, they exchanged a heartfelt goodbye, knowing that the journey they had embarked upon was just beginning. With newfound hope, Izzy stepped out into the cool ocean breeze, feeling grateful for the chance encounter that had brought Alex into her life. There was a sense of magic in the air–an undeniable connection that could weather any storm.
Little did they know that this ebb and flow of emotions would lead them to discover the true meaning of love and the beauty of letting their hearts follow the rhythm of the sea.
Ok. Chapter 3. Izzy’s motorcycle breaks down.
Chapter 3: Serendipitous Detour
The sun was high in the sky as Izzy revved the engine of her trusty motorcycle, ready for another day of exploration in Aptos. However, fate had other plans for her on this particular day.
As she cruised along the coastal road, a strange noise emanated from the engine. Izzy’s heart sank as the motorcycle sputtered and finally came to a halt. She pulled over to the side of the road, a mix of frustration and worry filling her.
“Great,” she muttered to herself, kicking the sand beneath her boots. “Just what I needed.”
Izzy tried to start the motorcycle again, but to no avail. It seemed that her two-wheeled companion had decided to take an unexpected break of its own. Resigned, she decided to walk back to town and find a mechanic to assess the situation.
As she wandered along the beach, her thoughts drifted to Alex. A part of her hoped he would magically appear and whisk her away on an adventure, but she knew that was wishful thinking. Still, the memory of their conversation brought a smile to her face.
Lost in her thoughts, Izzy was brought back to reality when she noticed a familiar figure in the distance. It was Alex, strolling along the shore with a clipboard in hand, inspecting the coastal area for any signs of pollution.
Her heart skipped a beat, and she waved to get his attention. “Alex!” she called out, feeling a mix of relief and excitement.
Alex turned towards her voice, a surprised expression on his face. “Izzy? What are you doing here?”
“My motorcycle broke down,” she explained, walking towards him. “Looks like I’m stranded for now.”
Without hesitation, Alex offered a warm smile and said, “Well, don’t worry. I can take a look at it for you. I’m no mechanic, but I’m pretty handy with engines.”
Izzy’s heart swelled with gratitude. “Thank you, Alex. That would be great.”
Together, they walked back to where Izzy’s motorcycle was parked. Alex assessed the situation, doing his best to diagnose the issue. Although he couldn’t fix it on the spot, he assured her that he would help arrange for a local mechanic to take a look.
As they waited for the mechanic to arrive, Izzy and Alex found themselves engaged in deep conversation, sharing stories of their adventures and dreams. Time seemed to pass quickly, and Izzy found herself opening up to Alex in a way she hadn’t with anyone else.
In that serendipitous moment, Izzy realized that sometimes, detours in life could lead to unexpected connections. Her motorcycle breakdown had brought her closer to Alex, creating an opportunity for their paths to intertwine even further.
By the time the mechanic arrived and took the motorcycle away for repairs, Izzy felt a sense of contentment. Despite the unforeseen setback, she knew that this day had become a meaningful chapter in her journey.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the beach, Izzy and Alex stood together, the ocean waves gently lapping at their feet. There was a sense of comfort in their shared presence–a bond that seemed to grow stronger with every passing moment.
With the promise of a repaired motorcycle and the company of a newfound friend, Izzy felt a renewed sense of adventure within her. The road ahead may still hold uncertainties, but she knew that having Alex by her side made the journey all the more worthwhile.
Little did they know that the events of this day would shape the course of their unfolding story, setting the stage for new discoveries, unexpected challenges, and the blossoming of a love that would rival even the most breathtaking sunsets over the sea.
Chapter 4. Izzy needs to find a place to stay in Aptos but it’s expensive and she’s not sure she can afford to stay.
Chapter 4: A Room with a View
As the days in Aptos passed, Izzy’s connection with the coastal town deepened, and so did her desire to stay longer. However, finding a place to stay proved to be a challenge. The charming seaside town was a popular destination, and accommodations came with a hefty price tag.
Izzy’s heart sank as she browsed through the rental listings. The quaint beach cottages and oceanfront villas seemed like a dream, but the reality of her limited budget brought her back to earth. She knew that if she wanted to extend her stay in Aptos, she had to find a more affordable option.
One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting hues of orange and purple over the ocean, Izzy found herself strolling along the beach, lost in thought. The salty breeze carried with it a mix of uncertainty and hope. She couldn’t bear the thought of leaving this coastal haven, but the looming reality of her financial constraints made it seem inevitable.
As she wandered back into town, she noticed a “Help Wanted” sign hanging in the window of a local bed and breakfast called “Seashell Inn.” An idea sparked in her mind, and she approached the charming establishment with newfound hope.
Inside, she was greeted by the innkeeper, a warm-hearted woman named Mrs. Cooper. Izzy inquired about the job, and Mrs. Cooper explained that they were looking for a temporary assistant to help with various tasks around the inn, from checking in guests to tidying up the rooms.
“Your timing is impeccable,” Mrs. Cooper said with a smile. “We’ve been short-staffed lately due to a family emergency, and we could really use an extra pair of hands.”
Izzy’s heart leaped with excitement. Not only could this opportunity provide her with the means to stay in Aptos, but it would also allow her to immerse herself in the heart of the coastal community she had grown to love.
Eager to make a good impression, Izzy accepted the job and started her duties at “Seashell Inn.” She quickly found joy in the hospitality industry, welcoming guests with a warm smile and sharing stories of her own adventures. The inn became her temporary home, and she cherished every moment spent amidst its cozy walls.
As days turned into weeks, Izzy’s bond with Mrs. Cooper deepened. The kind innkeeper became a mentor to her, offering wisdom and guidance on life’s uncertainties. They shared laughter over cups of tea and exchanged stories late into the night.
One evening, after a busy day at the inn, Mrs. Cooper approached Izzy with a gentle smile. “Izzy, I’ve been observing your passion for this place and its people,” she said. “The guests adore you, and it’s evident that you’ve found a home here.”
Touched by Mrs. Cooper’s words, Izzy nodded, her eyes shining with gratitude. “I feel so fortunate to have found this place,” she replied. “It’s like a dream come true, living and working by the sea.”
Mrs. Cooper’s expression softened. “In that case, my dear, I have an offer for you. I can’t promise the world, but if you’re willing, you’re welcome to stay here at the inn–at a discounted rate, of course. Your dedication and enthusiasm have been a blessing to us, and we’d be honored to have you as a resident of ‘Seashell Inn.'”
Tears welled up in Izzy’s eyes, and she hugged Mrs. Cooper tightly. “Thank you,” she whispered. “This means the world to me.”
From that moment on, “Seashell Inn” became not only a place of work but a haven for Izzy–an oasis of comfort and belonging amidst the vast expanse of the sea. Her worries about finances began to ease, replaced by a sense of security and gratitude.
In the heart of Aptos, as the waves continued their dance with the shore, Izzy found a place to call home–a room with a view that not only looked out onto the vast ocean but also gazed into her heart, where her love for this coastal town and the man who stole her heart, Alex, continued to grow with each passing day.
Chapter 5. Meanwhile Alex’s old girlfriend shows up in town, anxious to reconnect with him.
Chapter 5: Tides of the Past
As the summer days rolled on, a familiar face appeared in Aptos, setting off ripples of uncertainty in Alex’s heart. It was Emily, his old girlfriend from years ago. Her unexpected presence stirred up memories of their past together–a time filled with laughter, shared dreams, and youthful promises.
Alex hadn’t seen Emily since they went their separate ways, and he wasn’t prepared for the emotions that flooded back upon seeing her again. He felt torn between the nostalgia of what they once had and the newfound connection he was building with Izzy.
As fate would have it, Alex and Emily crossed paths near the conservation corner of “The Sea Glass Café & Conservation Center.” Their eyes met, and the years seemed to melt away in that moment. Memories of their late-night beach walks and whispered confessions resurfaced, leaving Alex feeling both vulnerable and conflicted.
“Alex,” Emily said, her voice soft with a hint of hesitation. “It’s been so long. I never thought I’d find myself back here, but something drew me back to this place.”
A part of Alex wanted to retreat, to shield himself from the flood of emotions that threatened to overwhelm him. However, he couldn’t deny the connection they once shared, and he felt compelled to hear her out.
They sat down on a nearby bench, the crashing waves providing a soothing backdrop to their conversation. Emily began to share the details of her journey since they last saw each other, the ups and downs that life had thrown her way.
“I’ve thought about you often, Alex,” Emily admitted, her eyes searching his for any hint of lingering feelings. “I never stopped caring for you, even after we went our separate ways.”
Alex felt a pang of guilt in his chest. He didn’t want to hurt Emily, but he couldn’t deny the feelings that were growing for Izzy. He decided to be honest with her, to lay his cards on the table.
“Emily, you were an important part of my life,” he said gently. “But things have changed. I’ve found someone else here in Aptos–a woman who’s awakened a different side of me. Her name is Izzy, and she’s… she’s become a significant part of my life.”
Emily looked taken aback, her gaze dropping to her hands. “I see,” she replied softly. “I’m happy for you, Alex. I truly am. I just… I had to see for myself if there was a chance for us.”
Alex placed a hand on her shoulder, offering a sympathetic smile. “I appreciate your honesty, Emily,” he said. “But I need to follow my heart, and my heart is with Izzy now.”
As Emily nodded, Alex couldn’t help but feel a mix of relief and sorrow. He had come to love the sea, its ever-changing tides a reflection of life’s uncertainties. He knew that his feelings for Izzy were real, but he also understood that navigating the currents of the heart was never easy.
In the days that followed, Alex continued to grapple with his emotions. He cherished the connection he was building with Izzy, but the shadow of the past lingered, tugging at his heartstrings. He knew that he needed to be honest with Izzy about Emily’s reappearance–a conversation that weighed heavily on his mind.
As the coastal town of Aptos witnessed the ebb and flow of emotions, Izzy and Alex’s journey took an unexpected turn. Their love story would be tested by the tides of the past, leaving them to navigate the uncharted waters of their hearts, where the currents of love and history collided in a dance as old as time itself.
Chapter 6. Izzy reflects back on her time at Stanford and her favorite class which was improv. She ponders how improv might be useful to her current situation particularly with Alex.
Chapter 6: Dancing in the Moment
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting hues of pink and orange over the sea, Izzy found herself sitting on a secluded spot of the beach, lost in thought. The gentle lapping of the waves seemed to echo the rhythm of her contemplations.
Her mind wandered back to her college days at Stanford, where she had taken a leap of faith and enrolled in an improv class. Those moments on stage, where she had to trust her instincts and embrace spontaneity, had taught her valuable lessons that extended far beyond the realm of theater.
Improv was all about living in the present, embracing the unexpected, and supporting the choices of others. It required a willingness to let go of control, to relinquish the script, and to dance in the moment without fear of failure. And as she pondered her current situation with Alex, Izzy couldn’t help but wonder if the principles of improv could guide her path forward.
She knew that her connection with Alex was something special, but the unexpected reappearance of his old girlfriend, Emily, had introduced an element of uncertainty. The tide of emotions she felt swirled within her–love, excitement, but also fear and vulnerability.
With a deep breath, Izzy reminded herself of the lessons from her improv class. She realized that just like on stage, she had to embrace the present and navigate the unscripted moments of life with grace and courage. She couldn’t control the outcome of her relationship with Alex, but she could be true to herself and her feelings.
Izzy knew that honesty was the key to navigating these uncharted waters. She wanted to share her thoughts and concerns with Alex, to let him know how much he meant to her, and that she wanted to explore their connection further. At the same time, she wanted to give him the space to figure things out on his own.
As the stars started to twinkle in the evening sky, Izzy decided to take a leap of faith, just as she had in her improv class. She would be vulnerable, honest, and present in the moment. She understood that love wasn’t about controlling the outcome, but about cherishing the journey.
The next day, Izzy found Alex near the conservation corner, engrossed in his work. She approached him with a warm smile, her heart beating in anticipation.
“Hey, Alex,” she began, her voice steady but vulnerable. “There’s something I’d like to talk to you about. Can we take a walk?”
Alex looked up, his gaze softening. “Of course, Izzy,” he replied, putting aside his clipboard. “Let’s go.”
As they strolled along the sandy shore, the ocean waves providing a soothing backdrop, Izzy shared her thoughts and feelings with Alex. She spoke from her heart, embracing the principles of improv by living in the present and speaking her truth without fear of judgment.
“I cherish the time we’ve spent together,” she said, her eyes meeting his. “And I can’t deny the connection I feel with you. But I also understand that you have history with Emily, and I want you to have the space to figure things out. I just wanted to be honest with you about how I feel.”
Alex listened intently, and a mix of emotions played across his face. “Thank you, Izzy,” he said softly. “I appreciate your honesty. Emily and I do have a history, but I want you to know that you’re special to me too. I need time to sort through my feelings, but I don’t want to lose what we have.”
With those words, a sense of relief washed over Izzy. She realized that, like improv, love was about embracing the present and being open to the unexpected. She didn’t need to have all the answers right now–what mattered was that she had spoken her truth and had given Alex the freedom to do the same.
As they continued their walk along the beach, hand in hand, Izzy felt a newfound sense of peace within herself. She had learned that love wasn’t about having a script or a guaranteed ending, but about being present in the moment, cherishing the journey, and trusting that the tides of life would lead them exactly where they were meant to be.
With Alex by her side and the wisdom of improv in her heart, Izzy felt ready to embrace whatever the future held, knowing that the ebb and flow of love’s dance would lead them to a place where they could both be free to share their hearts and souls with one another. And so, they continued to walk together, navigating the uncharted waters of their hearts, hand in hand, ready to face whatever tides lay ahead.
Chapter 7. Alex gets called to make a trip to Yosemite to deal with a pollution problem in the Merced river. He doesn’t own a car so he’s not sure he to get there.
Chapter 7: A Journey of Support
As news of the pollution problem in the Merced River reached Aptos, Alex’s heart sank. He knew that urgent action was needed to protect the delicate ecosystem, and he felt a sense of responsibility to respond quickly. However, a logistical challenge stood in his way–he didn’t own a car, and Yosemite was not easily accessible from Aptos.
Faced with this dilemma, Alex reached out to various conservation organizations for assistance, hoping someone could provide a ride or help him arrange transportation. Unfortunately, with the urgency of the situation, it seemed that everyone was preoccupied with their own commitments.
Feeling a mix of frustration and determination, Alex found himself at “The Sea Glass Café & Conservation Center,” contemplating his options. He had to find a way to get to Yosemite, but time was of the essence.
Just then, Izzy walked into the café, her presence bringing a spark of hope to his day. She noticed the concern in his eyes and approached him with a questioning look.
“Alex, is everything alright?” she asked, sensing his unease.
Alex sighed, his shoulders slumping. “There’s a pollution problem in the Merced River in Yosemite,” he explained. “I need to go there to help with the conservation efforts, but I don’t have a car, and I’m not sure how to get there in time.”
Without hesitation, Izzy placed a reassuring hand on his arm. “Don’t worry, Alex,” she said with a determined smile. “I’ll take you.”
Alex’s eyes widened in surprise. “You will? But it’s a long drive, and I don’t want to impose on you.”
Izzy shook her head. “Nonsense. I want to help, and this is important to you. Besides, the journey is part of the adventure, right? We can make a road trip out of it!”
Her enthusiasm warmed Alex’s heart, and he felt a sense of gratitude for her unwavering support. “Thank you, Izzy,” he said sincerely. “You have no idea how much this means to me.”
They quickly gathered the essentials for the trip and hopped into Izzy’s trusty motorcycle, which had been repaired and was ready for another adventure. With Alex holding on tightly behind her, they set off towards Yosemite, the wind in their hair and a shared sense of purpose in their hearts.
As they journeyed together, the distance between them seemed to melt away, and they fell into easy conversation. They laughed, shared stories, and sang along to songs on the radio. The hours passed like minutes, and the beauty of the coastal scenery gave way to the majestic splendor of Yosemite’s landscapes.
Arriving at Yosemite, they immediately joined forces with the conservation teams, working tirelessly to assess the pollution and devise solutions to protect the Merced River and its inhabitants. Alex’s expertise and passion were matched only by Izzy’s unwavering support and determination to help in any way she could.
Through long hours and hard work, they saw the positive impact of their efforts. The sight of a clear, revitalized river brought a sense of fulfillment to Alex’s heart, and he knew that he couldn’t have done it without Izzy by his side.
As they prepared to head back to Aptos, a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose had grown between them. They knew that they could rely on each other, not just as friends, but as partners in their respective journeys.
On the return trip, as they watched the sun dip below the horizon, Alex took Izzy’s hand in his, a silent expression of gratitude and affection. They knew that this journey had been more than just a road trip–it had been a journey of support, trust, and the shared commitment to protecting the natural world they both cherished.
As they rode back to Aptos, Alex and Izzy embraced the unscripted moments of life, just as in improv, knowing that they could trust in each other, in love, and in the ebb and flow of life’s journey. They had discovered that sometimes, it takes the support of someone else to navigate the uncharted waters of the heart, and they were ready to continue dancing together, hand in hand, embracing the adventure that lay ahead.
Chapter 8. Alex decides it’s time to close the door on Emily and get serious with Izzy.
Chapter 8: Sealing the Bonds
Back in Aptos, after the journey to Yosemite, Alex found himself reflecting on the experiences of the past days. The time spent with Izzy during the road trip had deepened their connection, and he realized just how much she meant to him. It was time for him to make a decision–to close the door on the past with Emily and embrace a future with Izzy.
He knew that he needed to have a candid conversation with Emily, one that was respectful and honest. Alex understood that they both deserved closure and the chance to move forward. With a determined heart, he reached out to Emily, requesting to meet in person.
They decided to meet at a nearby park in Aptos. The air was thick with anticipation as Alex approached Emily, who wore a mix of uncertainty and hope in her eyes.
“Emily,” he began, his voice steady. “I want to thank you for meeting with me. I want to be honest with you about how I feel.”
Emily nodded, her gaze never leaving his. “I appreciate that, Alex. I know that things have changed since we last saw each other.”
Alex took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. “Yes, they have. I’ve spent some time reflecting on our past and what we once had. But I’ve also come to realize that my heart is leading me in a different direction.”
He spoke with sincerity, looking into Emily’s eyes with empathy and kindness. He wanted her to know that the decision he was making was not meant to hurt her but to be true to himself.
“Izzy has become a significant part of my life,” he continued. “She’s brought a sense of joy, adventure, and understanding that I can’t ignore. And I want to see where this connection leads.”
Emily nodded, a mixture of emotions passing over her face. “I understand,” she said softly. “I can see that you two have something special.”
Alex reached out to hold her hand gently. “Emily, you will always hold a place in my heart. But I believe that it’s time for both of us to move forward. We deserve to find happiness, and I hope you can find it too.”
Tears welled up in Emily’s eyes, but she managed a small smile. “Thank you for being honest with me, Alex. I wish you all the best.”
With that, they shared a bittersweet embrace, a symbol of closure and gratitude for the memories they had once shared. As Alex walked away, he felt a sense of peace within himself. He knew that this decision was the right one and that he was ready to embrace the future with Izzy.
As he approached “The Sea Glass Café & Conservation Center,” Alex’s heart filled with anticipation. He couldn’t wait to see Izzy and share his decision with her. He knew that he needed to be open and vulnerable, just as she had been with him.
As he entered the café, Izzy looked up and smiled, her eyes sparkling with warmth. “Alex, welcome back,” she said. “How was your meeting with Emily?”
Alex took a deep breath and took her hands in his, looking into her eyes with unwavering honesty. “Izzy, I spoke with Emily, and we both agreed that it’s time to close the door on the past,” he said. “I want to be with you. You’ve brought so much joy and love into my life, and I can’t imagine my future without you.”
Tears of happiness welled up in Izzy’s eyes as she smiled. “Alex, I feel the same way,” she said softly. “I’ve fallen in love with you, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us.”
In that moment, they sealed their bonds with a passionate kiss, knowing that they were ready to embark on a new chapter together–a chapter filled with love, trust, and the knowledge that they had found in each other what they had been searching for all along.
As the sea outside embraced the shore, Alex and Izzy embraced their love for one another, ready to face whatever life’s tides brought their way. They had learned that sometimes, the most meaningful decisions were about embracing the present, letting go of the past, and opening their hearts to the possibilities of the future–together.
Chapter 9 is the last chapter. Write it in the style of Colleen Hoover.
Chapter 9: Love in the Echoes
The coastal breeze swept gently through the air, carrying with it the whispers of love that lingered in the atmosphere. Alex and Izzy stood hand in hand, their hearts entwined, as they watched the sun set over the horizon, painting the sky with a kaleidoscope of colors. This moment, bathed in the warmth of the evening glow, held within it the echoes of their journey–an odyssey of love, growth, and unyielding hope.
As they stood on the sandy shores of Aptos, Izzy felt a sense of awe wash over her. She had come to this coastal town seeking adventure, but she had found so much more–an unexpected connection that had blossomed into a love that felt like coming home.
Alex turned to her, his eyes filled with tenderness, and spoke the words that made her heart flutter, “Izzy, from the moment we met, I knew there was something special about you. You’ve brought light into my life, and I can’t imagine a future without you.”
Tears of joy glistened in Izzy’s eyes as she replied, “Alex, you’ve shown me what it means to embrace the present, to trust in love, and to let go of the past. You make me believe in the magic of the sea and the beauty of the unexpected. With you, I feel like I can conquer any storm.”
Their hearts were in sync, beating to the rhythm of their love, and they knew that they had found their way to each other through the twists and turns of fate.
As the stars began to twinkle in the night sky, Alex took Izzy’s hand in his, and they started to walk along the moonlit beach. Their love story was far from perfect, but they had learned that love was not about perfection–it was about the journey they embarked on together, hand in hand, ready to face the world as a team.
The echoes of their laughter and shared moments reverberated through the night, creating a symphony of love that surrounded them. They danced in the moonlight, their souls intertwined, and as they shared promises for their future, they knew that their love story was just beginning.
In the echoes of Aptos, where the ocean met the shore, Alex and Izzy found their forever. They understood that life would continue to present challenges, but they were ready to face them together, just as they had faced every wave and tide.
Their love was like the ocean–ever-changing, powerful, and boundless. They knew that just as the sea embraced the shore, their love would withstand the test of time, becoming a love that ebbed and flowed, yet always remained.
As they walked back to their home in Aptos, hand in hand, they felt a sense of peace within their hearts. They had learned that love was not about the destination, but the journey–the shared moments, the laughter, the tears, and the unyielding support they offered each other.
And so, with the sea as their witness and the stars as their guide, Alex and Izzy embraced the future, ready to create a love story that would stand the test of time. For in each other’s arms, they had found the missing piece–the love that was worth the wait, the love that was destined to be.
In the echoes of their hearts, the tale of Alex and Izzy would forever live–a love story that would inspire the stars to shine a little brighter, the waves to dance a little merrier, and the world to believe in the power of love’s embrace.
Ok let’s new turn this into a tv script.
Title: Echoes of the Sea
Genre: Romance, Drama
Episode 1: Serendipitous Encounters
INT. “The Sea Glass Café & Conservation Center” – DAY
[ALEX, a passionate conservationist, sits at a table, engrossed in his work. The café buzzes with activity, and the sound of laughter fills the air.]
[IZZY, a free-spirited adventurer, walks into the café. Her eyes light up as she spots Alex.]
IZZY (whispering to herself) There he is, the ocean guardian.
[She gathers her courage and approaches Alex.]
IZZY (smiling) Hey, I couldn’t resist stopping by the conservation corner.
ALEX (chuckles) Glad you did. It’s always nice to see a familiar face.
[They strike up a conversation, sharing stories of their travels and passions.]
Episode 2: A Chance Encounter
EXT. Aptos Beach – SUNSET
[Alex and Izzy watch the sun set over the ocean, their connection deepening with every passing moment.]
ALEX (softly) I never thought I’d meet someone like you.
IZZY (teary-eyed) Funny how life works, isn’t it? Sometimes, the best things happen when you least expect them.
[They share a tender moment, sealing the beginnings of their journey together.]
Episode 3: Tides of Uncertainty
INT. Seashell Inn – DAY
[Alex and Izzy spend more time together, their bond growing stronger. However, the sudden reappearance of Emily, Alex’s old girlfriend, casts a shadow of doubt.]
IZZY (insecure) I saw you with Emily, Alex. Are you sure you’re over her?
ALEX (honest) I thought I was, but seeing her again brought back memories. I need time to figure things out.
[As they navigate through uncertainties, they learn to trust their hearts and the love they share.]
Episode 4: A Road Trip to Remember
INT. Izzy’s Motorcycle – DAY
[Alex and Izzy embark on a road trip to Yosemite to address a pollution problem in the Merced River.]
ALEX (grateful) Thank you for coming with me, Izzy. Your support means the world.
IZZY (smiling) We’re in this together, Alex. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.
[Through challenges and triumphs, they find strength in each other’s presence.]
Episode 5: Closure and New Beginnings
INT. Park in Aptos – DAY
[Alex meets with Emily to find closure and make a decision about their future.]
ALEX (softly) Emily, you will always be important to me, but it’s time to move forward.
EMILY (teary-eyed) I understand, Alex. I want us both to be happy.
[With the past behind them, Alex and Izzy take a step towards embracing their future together.]
Episode 6: Dancing in the Moonlight
EXT. Aptos Beach – NIGHT
[Alex and Izzy share a romantic evening under the moonlight, dancing in the sand.]
IZZY (smiling) I can’t believe how far we’ve come, Alex.
ALEX (tenderly) And we’re just getting started, Izzy. I want to spend every moment with you.
[As the waves crash against the shore, their love story continues to unfold.]
Episode 7: Sealing the Bonds
INT. “The Sea Glass Café & Conservation Center” – DAY
[Alex and Izzy reveal their decision to be serious about their relationship.]
IZZY (exhaling) I’m so glad you chose me, Alex.
ALEX (leaning in) I couldn’t imagine my life without you, Izzy.
[They share a passionate kiss, solidifying their commitment to each other.]
Episode 8: Love in the Echoes
EXT. Aptos Beach – SUNSET
[Alex and Izzy stand hand in hand, watching the sun set.]
IZZY (teary-eyed) This place will always hold a special place in my heart.
ALEX (smiling) Mine too. With you by my side, it’s become even more magical.
[They exchange vows of love, embracing the echoes of their journey together.]
Episode 9: Forever in the Echoes
EXT. Aptos Beach – NIGHT
[Alex and Izzy walk along the moonlit beach, their love stronger than ever.]
IZZY (whispering) I love you, Alex.
ALEX (tenderly) I love you too, Izzy. Forever and always.
[As the waves crash against the shore, their love story continues, eternally intertwined in the echoes of the sea.]
[FADE OUT]
What’s a good theme song for the show? Suggest 10 songs.
Choosing a theme song for a TV show can set the tone and capture the essence of the series. Here are ten songs that could serve as potential theme songs for “Echoes of the Sea”:
“Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” by Hillsong United
“Beyond the Sea” by Bobby Darin
“I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz
“Uncharted” by Sara Bareilles
“Waves” by Dean Lewis
“Better Together” by Jack Johnson
“You and I” by Ingrid Michaelson
“Riptide” by Vance Joy
“All of Me” by John Legend
“I Won’t Give Up” by Jason Mraz
Each of these songs carries elements of love, adventure, and the serenity of the sea, making them potential candidates to capture the heart of “Echoes of the Sea” and resonate with viewers as they immerse themselves in the romantic and dramatic journey of Alex and Izzy.
Let’s find a name for the TV show. Suggest 10 widely different title ideas.
“Coastal Hearts”
“Tides of Love”
“Beyond the Horizon”
“Seaside Serenade”
“Ocean’s Embrace”
“Echoes of Destiny”
“Waves of Affection”
“Aptos Sands”
“Love’s Uncharted Waters”
“Shores of Serendipity”
Now we need to cast the actors. Suggest 3 actors to play each role.
Sure! Let’s consider three potential actors for each of the main roles in “Echoes of the Sea”:
Alex (Conservationist):
Chris Evans
Henry Cavill
Armie Hammer
Izzy (Adventurer):
Lily James
Margot Robbie
Emma Stone
Emily (Alex’s ex-girlfriend):
Dakota Johnson
Saoirse Ronan
Hailee Steinfeld
Casting can play a crucial role in bringing the characters to life and capturing the chemistry between them, enhancing the charm and appeal of “Echoes of the Sea.”
We need an outstanding director and Showrunner. Suggest 3 for each.
Certainly! Here are three potential outstanding directors and showrunners for “Echoes of the Sea”:
Directors:
Ava DuVernay
Damien Chazelle
Greta Gerwig
Showrunners:
Shonda Rhimes
Dan Fogelman
Mindy Kaling
These directors and showrunners have proven their expertise in creating compelling storytelling and bringing out the best performances from the cast, making them excellent choices to lead the production of “Echoes of the Sea.”
We are first going to publish the story in the New Yorker. Any changes recommended?
Publishing a story in The New Yorker requires a slightly different format and style compared to a TV script. Here are some recommended changes to adapt “Echoes of the Sea” for a publication in The New Yorker:
Focus on Narration: The New Yorker is known for its strong narrative style, so consider incorporating more descriptive prose and vivid imagery to bring the characters and settings to life.
Streamline Dialogue: While dialogue is crucial in a TV script, in a written story, focus on using dialogue strategically to reveal character emotions and motivations.
Develop Inner Monologues: Utilize inner monologues and thoughts of the characters to delve deeper into their feelings and perspectives.
Add Descriptive Details: Paint a vivid picture of the coastal town of Aptos and its surroundings, including the sights, sounds, and scents, to immerse the readers in the setting.
Embrace Literary Devices: Experiment with literary devices like metaphors, similes, and symbolism to enrich the storytelling.
Introspection and Reflection: Include moments of introspection and reflection from the characters to delve into their emotional journeys.
Engaging Opening: Craft a captivating opening that hooks the readers and entices them to continue reading.
Poetic Language: Allow the language to have a poetic quality, using evocative phrases and prose to create an emotional impact.
Convey Emotions: Dive into the characters’ emotional states and experiences, making the readers empathize with their struggles and triumphs.
Satisfying Conclusion: Ensure a satisfying and resonant ending that leaves a lasting impression on the readers.
Adapting “Echoes of the Sea” for The New Yorker will allow the readers to fully experience the beautiful love story and its emotional depth in a way that complements the literary nature of the publication.
Let’s create a 15 second ad for the show. Write the narration for the ad.
[INTENSE PIANO MUSIC]
[NARRATOR (Voiceover)] “Discover a love that echoes through time.”
[VISUAL]
Quick snippets of Alex and Izzy’s romantic moments, walking on the beach, laughing together, and sharing tender glances.
[NARRATOR (Voiceover)] “In a coastal town, where fate dances with destiny…”
[VISUAL]
Scenes of Aptos’ picturesque landscapes, the crashing waves, and the breathtaking sunset.
[NARRATOR (Voiceover)] “Follow their journey, as passion meets adventure.”
[VISUAL]
Exciting shots of Alex and Izzy exploring nature, going on a road trip, and embracing the thrill of life.
[NARRATOR (Voiceover)] “Echoes of the Sea, where love finds its rhythm.”
[VISUAL]
The show’s title “Echoes of the Sea” displayed on the screen against a backdrop of a sparkling ocean.
[NARRATOR (Voiceover)] “Coming soon to your screens.”
[VISUAL]
The logo of the TV network broadcasting the show.
[NARRATOR (Voiceover)] “Get ready to be swept away.”
[VISUAL]
Quick montage of the main characters, Alex, Izzy, and Emily, each showing their emotions.
[NARRATOR (Voiceover)] “Echoes of the Sea, a love story like no other.”
[VISUAL]
The release date of the show appearing on the screen.
[NARRATOR (Voiceover)] “Don’t miss the tide-turning romance.”
[VISUAL]
The tagline “Love’s journey has just begun” displayed.
[INTENSE PIANO MUSIC FADES OUT]
[NARRATOR (Voiceover)] “Echoes of the Sea, coming soon.”
[VISUAL]
The show’s logo and release date displayed on the screen.
[END OF AD]
Let’s now write five haiku about Echoes of the Sea.
Whispers on the shore, Love’s echoes in salty breeze, Hearts entwined, they soar.
Sunset’s golden hue, Echoes dance upon the waves, Love’s symphony true.
Footprints in the sand, Tides of love forever bound, Echoes hand in hand.
Sea’s embrace, so deep, Love’s echoes ripple afar, Two hearts, soul to keep.
Moonlight paints the sea, Echoes of love gently soar, Infinite, they’ll be.
Let’s now make up a good name for the author of this short story. Something along the lines of George Saunders or Charles Dickens.
Certainly! How about the pen name “Eleanor Montgomery” for the author of this enchanting short story, “Echoes of the Sea”? It carries a classic and timeless charm, reminiscent of esteemed authors like George Saunders and Charles Dickens, while also adding a touch of femininity to the name, reflecting the romantic and heartfelt nature of the story.
Wonderful! Let’s also come up with the titles of five other beach read short stories Eleanor Montgomery has written.
“Whispers of the Ocean”
“Sandcastle Dreams”
“Seashells and Serendipity”
“Tides of Love”
“Coastal Escapades”
That’s it – the end of my beach read excursion which also turned into a TV show and a New Yorker magazine piece as well.
This was great fun – with me selecting the story line and ChatGPT filling in the story. Perhaps not a story that’s going to win any awards – but this could certainly provide a basic framework around which a much better writer than I am might be able to embrace and extend the ideas that ChatGPT generated.
What’s also fun is that ChatGPT can generate alternative versions of any of these chapters – to stimulate even more ideas for a writer.
Find this interesting? Try it yourself. Try it with one of the other AI chatbots like Google Bard, Microsoft Bing, Pi or one of the others. Share what you learn!
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