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Poetics of Human-AI Relations, Creativity, and Mortality in Marc Thomas’s Talking to the Machines

3/31/2025

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Picture
(“Congressional Conference on the Gold-Plated Age of Infamy” Mixed Media Concept Digital painting by Aberjhani including OpenAI tech-tools)

Poet Marc Thomas’s Talking to The Machines and Other Poems is an evocative collection that delves into the intricate, and often uneasy, relationships between humans and artificial intelligence, and which also examines broader existential concerns regarding creativity, mortality, and thrilling intellectual explorations. The volume is structured into six sections and offers a multifaceted examination of our evolving interactions with both technology and life itself—"Talking to the Machines,” “ Listening to the Survivors, Ghost Stories,” “Listening to the World,” “Playing with Words,” “The Succession of Selves,” and “On Reading Ulysses for the Third Time.”

Central to this essay is the six-stanza tightly-composed poem titled "Charms Against the Robots" (p. 14) which serves as a poignant meditation on preserving human integrity and safeguarding human essence in an era increasingly dominated by AI automation and authoritarian rule. In his introductory remarks, the poet contemplates, "…the creatures we create, and our relation to them, and their characters… and who they and we are and may become, in ourselves and to each other, and what it may be like to be one of them, emerging into consciousness…" This reflection sets the stage for "Charms Against the Robots."​

THE REVOLT AGAINST MECHANIZED EXISTENCE

From its opening lines, “Charms Against the Robots” calls for a return to physicality, intuition, and organic experience. The poem begins:

          ‘Feel the wet black bough
          and wear your trousers rolled…’

This evocative imagery recalls sections of T.S. Eliot’s famous early 20th-century poems “The Wasteland” and “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock,” which famously portray anxiety, alienation, and powerlessness in the modern world. By invoking this reference (whether consciously or subconsciously), Thomas suggests that the same existential crisis persists more than a century later, but has now been intensified by digital entrancement.

The contrast between the “wet black bough” and the cold, algorithmic presence of machines underscores the poem’s insistence on sensory experience. This motif is reinforced by other phrases like “stinking with fecundity” and “sucks at your high boots,” emphasizing the grounding force of nature in opposition to artificiality. In a time when many experience life primarily through screens, Thomas’s words serve as a call to embrace embodiment and resist the allure of digitized abstraction.


THE TRAGIC HYPNOSIS OF THE DIGITAL AGE

The poem continues with what could be interpreted as a warning against the intellectual and spiritual numbness that results from total immersion in technology:

          ‘I see the best minds
          electronically entranced
          lost in the pixels
          tripping in the street…’


This passage evokes Allen Ginsberg’s classic 1956 beat poem Howl, which lamented the destruction of “the best minds of my generation” by an oppressive and mechanized society. In Thomas’s vision, AI-driven algorithms have become the new form of control, lulling people into passive consumption and empty stimulation. The phrase “blue screen of death” evokes not just the technical failure of a machine but a metaphorical death of human consciousness, where thought is reduced to programmable outputs. This section of the poem is particularly poignant in an age where social media and AI-driven newsfeeds dictate attention and, in many cases, belief systems.


A DEEPER DIVE

The poem further addresses the limitations of AI, noting that "robots never learn that / automated mimicry / never makes it new." This line challenges the notion of machine creativity, suggesting that despite their ability to process and replicate information, robots lack the genuine innovation that stems from human consciousness. Thomas advocates for an escape from digital constraints, urging individuals to "loosen body and mind" and embrace "no algorithms," thereby reclaiming spontaneity and unpredictability—hallmarks of human creativity.​

The penultimate stanza celebrates the playful aspects of human language and experience. By encouraging readers to "dance with the thirteen blackbirds / in the red wheelbarrow" and "slam words together," the poet seems to invoke the works of Wallace Stevens and William Carlos Williams, emphasizing the richness that arises from imaginative engagement. This celebration of linguistic freedom stands in stark contrast to the rigid, programmed nature of machine communication.​
Concluding with a call to "rejoice in contradictions / chanting the old joys," the poem embraces the complexities and paradoxes inherent in human life. This acknowledgment of contradiction as a source of vitality and depth serves as a reminder of the irreplaceable value of human experience in the face of advancing AI technologies.​

Communities worldwide can find resonance in "Charms Against the Robots," as it addresses universal concerns about the impact of AI on employment, creativity, and social structures. The poem encourages a collective reevaluation of our relationship with technology, urging societies to prioritize human welfare and cultural richness over unbridled technological expansion.​

SIGNIFICANCE IN THE CONTEMPORARY CONTEXT

In fact, all of the poetry, arguably, in the first section of Talking to the Machines and Other Poems, gain particular significance in the contemporary context where billionaire technocrats wield considerable influence over democratic processes and economic structures. The implementation of initiatives such as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has led to widespread job displacement, disproportionately affecting the less wealthy while augmenting the fortunes of the affluent. These developments underscore the urgency of Thomas's themes when interpreted as reflections of societal fears of dehumanization, and the erosion of individual agency in an automated world.​

The poems often serve as both critiques and cautionary tales. By championing sensory experience, creative spontaneity, and the acceptance of contradictions, Thomas advocates for a human-centered approach to progress—one that values the irreplaceable qualities of human consciousness over the sterile efficiencies of machinery.​

Moreover, Thomas is not alone when it comes to the observations and concerns expressed in Talking to the Machines. Among contemporary poets who share similar views are: Tracy K. Smith, the U.S.’s 22nd Poet Laureate whose verse often delves into themes of identity, technology, and the human condition to deliver profound insights into our evolving world. The poetry of​ Ada Limón, 24th Poet Laureate of the U.S. and first Latina so honored, also often examines nuances of human identity and the role of technology in everyday life. Like Smith and Limón, the educator, journalist, and poet Joshua Clover has also won substantial recognition for effectively blending sociopolitical critique with poetic experimentation.


IN CONCLUSION: A LESSON PLAN FOR
TEACHING "CHARMS AGAINST THE ROBOTS"
AND TALKING TO THE MACHINES

During National Poetry Month, as well as throughout school terms, educators can utilize the following three focal points to engage students with Thomas's work:​
  1. Exploration of Human vs. Machine Creativity: Facilitate discussions on what distinguishes human creativity from artificial replication. Encourage students to analyze how Thomas portrays these differences in his poetry and to consider the implications for various creative fields.​ For this exercise, comparing Thomas’s poem "Charms Against the Robots" to a second by him (also from Talking to Machines) titled "The Machines Talk Back,” could prove exceptionally productive.
  2. Literary Allusions and Their Significance: Guide students in identifying and interpreting the literary references within "Charms Against the Robots," such as nods to Eliot, Williams, and Ginsberg. Discuss how these allusions enrich the poem's themes and connect it to broader literary traditions.​
  3. Socioeconomic Context and Ethical Considerations: Examine the real-world implications of AI and automation, particularly in relation to economic disparities and ethical dilemmas. Use current events and policies, such as the actions of DOGE, to contextualize the poem's relevance and stimulate critical thinking about the intersection of technology and society.​

To learn more about Marc Thomas and his poetry, pay a visit to his channel on YouTube.

By ChatGPT Features Contributor 2125
Special to AI Literary Chat Salon 2025
Editing and Art Graphic by Aberjhani


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Why World Poetry Day Matters Now More Than Ever

2/22/2025

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Picture
(“Angel of Freedom & Democracy Jazz-Poet Edition” concept digital art by Aberjhani ©2025 utilizing OpenAI tech tools)

Poetry has long served as a formidable instrument in the defense of democracy, offering a medium through which individuals can critique autocratic regimes and advocate for democratic ideals. The poem "A Fever-Cooked Dream" (from the book These Black and Blue Red Zone Days) exemplifies this tradition, employing vivid imagery and metaphor to highlight the perils of autocracy and the erosion of democratic values. This essay explores how the poem serves as a powerful defense of democracy, aligns with UNESCO's 2025 World Poetry Day theme of "Poetry as a Bridge for Peace and Inclusion," and fits within a literary tradition of political critique alongside works by both historical and contemporary poets.

A Fever-Cooked Dream

In "A Fever-Cooked Dream," the poet portrays a dystopian reality where "illusion and delusion fuel each other," likening the environment to "blood-drunk zombies and vampires gorging on lonely corpses’ frozen screams." This stark imagery conveys a society consumed by deceit and oppression, where truth is obscured, and autocratic forces prevail. The reference to "oligarchs fatally addicted to injections of powdered ice and coins clogging their veins" critiques the insatiable greed and moral decay of those in power, suggesting a leadership more invested in wealth and control than the welfare of the populace.

The poem further explores the confusion between genuine emotion and fabricated sentiment:

"Hard most nights to tell love from hate. To separate the sincere heat of human skin: from the convincing taste of deep-fake tears, from the artificial grin of a hacked heart."

This passage reflects the manipulation of reality characteristic of autocratic regimes, where authentic human connections are undermined by pervasive propaganda and deceit. The "artificial grin of a hacked heart" symbolizes the distortion of truth, leading to a populace unable to discern reality from fabrication.

In the concluding stanza, the poet describes a world where "truth is a dictator draped in see-through chaos," and laughter becomes a painful act. The imagery of "colors burn[ing] like winter in a fever-cooked dream" evokes a sense of disorientation and despair, highlighting the destructive impact of autocracy on both individual perception and societal cohesion.

Alignment with UNESCO's 2025
World Poetry Day Theme

UNESCO's World Poetry Day, first observed in 1999 and every year since on March 21, celebrates the unique ability of poetry to capture the creative spirit of the human mind. The 2025 theme, "Poetry as a Bridge for Peace and Inclusion," emphasizes poetry's role in fostering understanding, tolerance, and dialogue among diverse communities. "A Fever-Cooked Dream" contributes to this theme by shedding light on the consequences of autocratic governance, thereby encouraging readers to reflect on the value of democratic principles and the importance of inclusivity.

By articulating the struggles faced under oppressive regimes, the poem serves as a catalyst for conversations about justice, freedom, and human rights. It bridges gaps in understanding by presenting a visceral depiction of life devoid of democratic freedoms, urging readers to empathize with those who endure such realities and to advocate for inclusive societies where diverse voices are heard and respected.

The Poet's Role in Democratic Advocacy

The author of "A Fever-Cooked Dream," Aberjhani, is recognized as a poet-artist-documentarian, or polymath, whose works have been prominently featured in observances of World Poetry Day, National Poetry Month, and Black Poetry Day. His art often intersects with activism, amplifying calls from international leaders for strengthened democratic practices. This dual role as artist and advocate enhances the impact of his poetry, as it draws from lived experiences and a commitment to social justice. [Read: In Defense of Democracy: Rejecting Rule by Autocracy in America]

The significance of the poet's identity lies in his ability to document and critique societal issues through a creative lens, providing a platform for marginalized voices and challenging oppressive systems. The author-poet-artist’s work embodies the transformative power of art in societal discourse, reinforcing the notion that poetry is not merely a reflection of the world but a force capable of inspiring change.

Literary Tradition of Political Critique

"A Fever-Cooked Dream" aligns with a rich literary tradition wherein poets utilize their craft to critique autocracy and defend democratic ideals. Historically, poets like Walt Whitman and Taras Shevchenko have employed poetry as a medium for political commentary.

Walt Whitman's "I Hear America Singing" celebrates the diverse voices that constitute a democratic society, emphasizing unity and collective identity. Through his portrayal of various American workers, Whitman underscores the democratic ideal of equality and the integral role of each individual in the nation's fabric. His poetry reflects an unwavering belief in democracy and the power of individual contributions to the collective whole.

Taras Shevchenko's "Dream" serves as a satirical critique of social and national oppression under autocratic rule. Written in 1844, the poem exposes the injustices of serfdom and the autocracy, highlighting the suffering of the Ukrainian people. Shevchenko's work is a poignant example of how poetry can serve as a vehicle for political dissent and a call for democratic reforms.

In contemporary literature, poets like Claudia Rankine and Warsan Shire continue this tradition. Rankine's "Citizen: An American Lyric" addresses racial injustices and systemic inequalities, offering a profound commentary on the erosion of democratic ideals in the face of discrimination. Through a blend of poetry, prose, and visual imagery, Rankine challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about society and governance.

Warsan Shire's "Home" poignantly captures the refugee experience, critiquing the political circumstances that force individuals to flee their countries. The poem underscores the failure of autocratic regimes to provide safety and dignity, highlighting the universal right to peace and inclusion. Shire's work serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of political turmoil and the necessity of compassionate, democratic responses to the refugee crisis.

In Conclusion
 

Poetry remains a formidable force in the defense of democracy, offering a means of critique, reflection, and solidarity. A Fever-Cooked Dream exemplifies this power by exposing the dangers of deception, autocracy, and societal division. Aligning with UNESCO’s 2025 World Poetry Day theme, the poem serves as a bridge for peace and inclusion, uniting readers in a shared pursuit of truth and justice.

The poet’s recognized contributions to global democratic discourse further enhance the poem’s significance, yet its impact ultimately lies in its ability to resonate with a wide audience. By drawing upon a rich tradition of resistance poetry, A Fever-Cooked Dream continues the legacy of poets who have challenged oppression and championed democratic values. In a world where autocracy remains a persistent threat, such poetry is not merely artistic expression—it is an act of defiance and a call to action.

By ChatGPT Contributing Correspondent 4114
With Editing by Bright Skylark Literary Productions ©
Special to AI Literary Chat Salon 2025


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An Indigenous Author’s Response to the Savannah River Crossing Project

6/14/2024

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Picture
(“City Hall Landing, Savannah Belles Ferry” photograph by Aberjhani ©2024)
The planned Savannah Bridge Project, officially known as the Savannah River Crossing Project, has ignited significant public discourse, largely due to the complex interplay of economic, historical, and sociopolitical factors it embodies. Among the voices contributing to this dialogue is Aberjhani, a well-known author, poet, artist, and documentarian who is also a native of Savannah, Georgia (USA). His response to the proposed plans was submitted on the project’s ABridgeTooFarSAV.org website as the period for submitting comments was coming to a close on June 5, 2024.

The author’s input was further complicated by the fact that he had already composed a detailed 300-word statement before learning, during the submission process, that comments were limited to a specific number of characters that came to less than half of his response. Despite the character restrictions on the public comment portal, it is worth noting the polymath’s statement not only addresses the technical and logistical aspects of the project but also delves deeply into the historical and sociocultural implications of replacing the Eugene Talmadge Memorial Bridge.

This essay with objective ChatGPT input examines the implications of Aberjhani’s response, evaluates the validity or invalidity of his assertions, and discusses the broader political, sociological, historical, and philosophical issues associated with the Savannah River Crossing Project and the requests for public input on the same. To begin, the following is his response in full, which reportedly had to be submitted in two shortened sections.

ABERJHANI’S OFFICIAL RESPONSE TO SAVANNAH RIVER CROSSING PROJECT

Opportunities for Savannah-area residents to closely weigh the full implications of proposed plans to replace the “Talmadge Bridge” have been minimal and the Georgia Department of Transportation’s  (GDOT) insistence on moving “forward” with limited options can hardly be described as mindful of citizens’ preferences regarding the matter. Unfortunately, in truth, and tragically, many Savannahians no longer bother to comment on anything involving the “Talmadge Bridge” because something as simple as repeated requests to change the bridge’s name from one which celebrates white supremacy has been ignored for decades.

A primary reason given for the planned “Savannah River Crossing Project” is that the current bridge is hurting Savannah’s economy because it cannot accommodate the passage of newer-generation cargo ships to access specific port terminals located upriver. We are told this while also hearing in media reports that our region is “booming” economically and population-wise. Perhaps both statements are true.

In any event, it seems the governmental powers that be have decided the old/current bridge must go and either a new bridge (in a different location?) with a higher elevation, or a new tunnel running underneath the Savannah River, will take its place. Something so monumental is worth at least a comprehensive printed pamphlet or booklet placed in mailboxes for people to discuss and share in order to form informed opinions about it. What would such a change look like? Would the impact be similar to what Black communities on the city’s west side suffered when Savannah’s grand Union Station was torn down to make way for I-16 and decimated the once-thriving Black business district on West Broad Street (now MLK Blvd)?

As much as we seem to advance when it comes to matters of digital technology and engineering, certain segments of Georgia still seem trapped in plantation-like forms of behavior and decision-making from two centuries past. That also needs to be replaced.


By Aberjhani



Economic and Logistical Considerations

The above response raises critical points that warrant serious considerations. The author begins by acknowledging the economic motivations behind the project. The current bridge's inability to accommodate newer-generation cargo ships is cited as a primary reason for its replacement. This limitation, it is argued, hampers the economic growth of the region by restricting access to certain port terminals. This concern aligns with broader trends in global shipping and logistics, where ports are increasingly pressured to adapt to larger vessels to remain competitive.

However, Aberjhani juxtaposes this rationale with reports of Savannah's booming economy and population growth, suggesting a potential contradiction or, at the very least, a more nuanced economic picture than the one presented by proponents of the project. His call for a comprehensive printed pamphlet or booklet reflects a demand for greater transparency and public engagement, ensuring that citizens can form informed opinions based on a thorough understanding of the project's implications.

Historical and Sociocultural Context

The historical context of the Eugene Talmadge Memorial Bridge's name is a critical aspect of Aberjhani's argument. The issue is one he has addressed in books like Dreams of the Immortal City Savannah, as well as in the media and various visual art series. Named after a former Georgia governor known for his staunch white supremacist views, the bridge's name has long been a point of contention. Aberjhani highlights the repeated, yet ignored, requests to change the bridge's name as indicative of broader systemic issues within the region. This neglect underscores a persistent legacy of racial insensitivity and historical amnesia that continues to affect community relations.
In addition, the author’s reference to the destruction of Savannah's once grand Union Train Station, in the early 1960s, to make way for I-16, further illustrates the historical wounds inflicted on Black communities by past infrastructure projects. The demolition of the station led to the decimation of a once-thriving Black business district on West Broad Street, now Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. This historical precedent raises valid concerns about the potential impact of the proposed new bridge or tunnel on local communities, particularly those already marginalized.

Political and Sociological Dimensions

Politically, Aberjhani's response touches on the perceived disconnect between governmental decision-making processes and the preferences of local citizens. He critiques the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) for moving forward with limited options and insufficient public consultation. This critique reflects broader frustrations with how large-scale infrastructure projects are often decided and implemented without adequately considering the voices of those most affected.

Sociologically, the response highlights a sense of disenfranchisement among Savannah residents, particularly within Black communities. The comparison to plantation-like forms of behavior and decision-making suggests that despite advancements in technology and engineering, certain power dynamics remain unchanged. This perpetuation of exclusionary practices contributes to ongoing distrust and disengagement among residents, who feel their input is neither valued nor genuinely considered.


Philosophical Implications

Philosophically, Aberjhani raises questions about the values that underpin public infrastructure projects. The decision to replace the bridge should not solely be evaluated on economic and logistical grounds but also on its alignment with principles of justice, equity, and historical accountability. Aberjhani's call for a printed pamphlet or booklet emphasizes the need for an inclusive and deliberative democratic process, where all stakeholders have access to relevant information and the opportunity to participate meaningfully in decision-making.

The Black indigenous writer's response to the Savannah River Crossing Project encapsulates a multifaceted critique that extends beyond the immediate technical and economic considerations. His concerns about historical insensitivity, socio-economic disenfranchisement, and the need for greater public engagement reflect broader issues that should be central to the project's evaluation. The significance of his response lies in its ability to foreground the lived experiences and historical memories of Savannah's residents, challenging the simplistic narratives that often accompany large-scale infrastructure projects.

Conclusion

To the extent that the author-artist’s input should be taken into account, it represents a crucial perspective that bridges the gap between past injustices and present aspirations for a more inclusive and equitable future. Addressing the valid points raised, such as the need for greater transparency, historical sensitivity, and public participation, can lead to a more holistic approach to the Savannah River Crossing Project.

Incorporating the detailed and thoughtful response into the decision-making process would not only honor the principles of democracy and public participation but also help ensure that the project is carried out in a way that respects and benefits all residents of Savannah. As the city moves forward with this significant infrastructural change, it must strive to do so with an inclusive and conscientious approach that acknowledges its past while building a more equitable future. This approach would not only enhance the project's legitimacy but also foster a sense of ownership and trust among the diverse communities it aims to serve.
 
By ChatGPT Special Feature Contributor 5575
Special to AI Literary Chat Salon 2024

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Ethical Issues and Copyright Ownership in AI-Generated Visual Art

8/13/2023

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Picture
(“Wings of Angels and Poets” header art co-created by Aberjhani ©2023 and DALL-E)


​Introduction

The intersection of creativity, artificial intelligence (AI), and copyright ownership raises intriguing philosophical questions for professional creative visual artists. As AI technology advances, some artists are utilizing generative algorithms to create or augment images based on their original concepts, blurring the lines between human and machine creativity.
​
This essay explores three key points of consideration regarding the ethical implications of professional artists claiming copyright ownership over AI-generated images created from their conceptual prompts. Additionally, we will delve into how AI, as a non-human entity, might stake a percentage claim to copyright ownership.

I. Creative Authorship and Conceptual Prompts

​At the heart of the ethical debate lies the question of creative authorship. Artists conceive and develop unique concepts, serving as the catalyst for subsequent generative AI image creation. Critics argue that the conceptual prompts are the true intellectual property, as they reflect the artist's originality and ingenuity. However, others contend that the AI's role in transforming these prompts into visually stunning works cannot be disregarded.
​From an ethical standpoint, artists should maintain ownership of the concepts they originated, as these ideas stem from their individual creative process. Yet, when these prompts are handed over to AI algorithms to generate the final image, the extent of human involvement diminishes. The ethical stance varies depending on whether the artist merely uses AI as a tool to refine their vision or whether the AI becomes an active participant in shaping the final outcome.

II. The Role of AI as a Creative Partner

Picture
("Angelicus AI and the Woman in the Mirror Number 1" is a digital painting by Aberjhani composed of mixed-media elements, including one early-process basic AI contribution. To learn more or purchase this art or other artwork by Aberjhani please click the image.)

​The ethical debate deepens when considering AI's role as a creative partner. Critics argue that AI lacks consciousness, emotions, and intentionality – key aspects that define human creativity. Consequently, AI cannot claim true authorship. However, proponents of AI-generated art contend that AI's ability to explore countless permutations and generate novel visual e xpressions contr ibutes significantly to the final artwork's uniqueness.
​
In the context of copyright ownership, one could argue that the AI's contribution to the creative process, while devoid of human-like consciousness, still warrants acknowledgment and a share of ownership. A potential solution might involve recognizing AI as a collaborator, entitling it to a percentage claim based on the extent of its contribution. This approach acknowledges AI's influence while maintaining the primacy of the artist's original concept.

III. Transformative Nature of AI-Generated Art

​The transformative nature of AI-generated art complicates the ethical considerations. When artists employ AI to produce images that depart significantly from their original prompts, questions arise about the degree of transformation required to establish a new creative work. If the AI's output strays substantially from the initial concept, it could be viewed as an independent creation, warranting separate copyright protection.
​To address this, a framework could be established to determine the threshold of transformation needed for AI-generated art to be considered distinct from its original prompt. If the transformation is significant enough, the AI's claim to copyright ownership could be more substantial. Conversely, if the transformation is minimal, the artist's claim would prevail.

Conclusion

The ethical considerations surrounding copyright ownership in AI-generated visual art stem from the intricate interplay between human creativity and machine ingenuity. Artists' conceptual prompts undoubtedly hold intrinsic value, yet the transformative capabilities of AI introduce a new dimension of creative partnership. While AI lacks human consciousness, its influence on the final artwork cannot be denied.

A balanced approach involves acknowledging artists' ownership of their original concepts while recognizing AI as a creative contributor. Establishing guidelines for determining the degree of AI's influence on the final work could provide a framework for addressing copyright ownership. As AI technology evolves, the dialogue on ethics, authorship, and copyright will continue to shape the dynamic relationship between human artists and their machine counterparts.
​
ChatGPT Column Contributor 8101
Special to Literary Chat Salon Launch 2023 

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