Mixed Emotions

On the one hand, AI is amazing. On the other hand, it’s scary as hell. We may not be doomed, but we’re rapidly becoming irrelevant.

It was recently brought to my attention that Microsoft’s AI tool Copilot is readily available in Windows. I’ve toyed with ChatGPT before, but the earlier version seemed flawed. Copilot, though, seems pretty sharp.

First, I asked Copilot who had influenced my writing.

Answer:

Clifford Garstang, the accomplished author, draws inspiration from several notable writers. His influences include:

1. Tim O’Brien: Known for his powerful and evocative storytelling, Tim O’Brien’s works have left a lasting impact on Garstang’s writing journey.
2. Elizabeth Strout: Strout’s ability to delve into complex characters and their emotional landscapes has resonated with Garstang.
3. Peter Ho Davies: A master of the short story form, Davies’ craftsmanship has likely influenced Garstang’s own approach to writing.
4. Colum McCann: McCann’s lyrical prose and exploration of interconnected lives have left an imprint on Garstang’s work.
5. Grace Paley: As a writer who skillfully blends humor, wit, and social commentary, Paley’s influence can be seen in Garstang’s stories.

These authors have contributed to shaping Garstang’s literary voice and thematic explorations. His own body of work, including novels like Oliver’s Travels and The Shaman of Turtle Valley, as well as short story collections like House of the Ancients and Other Stories, What the Zhang Boys Know, and In an Uncharted Country, reflects this rich tapestry of inspiration.

As a follow-up question, I asked about my writing style.

Answer:

Clifford Garstang, an accomplished author, weaves his literary tapestry with international and multicultural flavors. His writing style is characterized by several key elements:

1. Rich Cultural Context: Garstang’s stories often unfold against diverse cultural backdrops. His experiences as a Peace Corps Volunteer in South Korea and his work in international law have infused his writing with a global perspective.
2. Interconnected Characters: Garstang excels at creating intricate networks of characters whose lives intersect. His novels and short story collections feature characters whose paths converge, revealing shared histories and hidden connections.
3. Nuanced Emotions: Whether exploring love, loss, or longing, Garstang delves into the emotional landscapes of his characters. His prose captures the subtleties of human feelings, allowing readers to empathize deeply.
4. Economy of Language: Garstang’s writing is concise yet evocative. He crafts sentences that resonate, conveying layers of meaning with precision. His short stories, in particular, showcase his ability to pack a punch in limited space.
5. Exploration of Identity: Identity—whether cultural, familial, or personal—is a recurring theme in Garstang’s work. His characters grapple with questions of belonging, heritage, and self-discovery.
6. Literary Craftsmanship: Garstang’s background in law and international development informs his meticulous attention to detail. His prose is polished, and he skillfully balances plot, character, and setting.
7. Variety of Forms: From novels to linked short story collections, Garstang embraces different forms. His versatility allows him to experiment with structure and narrative techniques.

In summary, Clifford Garstang’s writing style combines cultural richness, emotional depth, and precise craftsmanship. His works resonate with readers seeking thought-provoking stories that bridge borders and illuminate shared humanity.

Who am I to argue with this expert analysis?