I collaborated with ChatGPT to start a YA novel

In my companion post, I enumerated the ways you can use generative language models as a writing tool. In my research conversing with ChatGPT, I wanted to see how far I could push the limits of this tool. What I discovered was that it is a more powerful catalyst to the writing process than I could have anticipated.

Click here for the transcript of my conversation with ChatGPT. Warning: this was an hours long conversation, making it a too long for a quick, casual read. Consume this content at your own peril.

Here is the fast and dirty of how I collaborated with ChatGPT...

1. I asked it to generate science fiction genre writing prompts. It provided 10. I selected #6: In a post-apocalyptic world, a group of survivors discovers a mysterious artifact that holds the key to rebuilding civilization. However, they soon realize it attracts dangerous factions who will stop at nothing to possess it.

2. I asked it to write an opening scene to the story built on this prompt.
   Click here to skip to step 3.
   
   ChatGPT:
   
   The sun cast long shadows across the desolate wasteland, its dim rays struggling to penetrate the thick layer of dust that hung in the air. Crumbling skyscrapers stood as hollow reminders of a once-thriving metropolis, now reduced to ruins. Among the debris and decay, a group of survivors trudged forward, their weary footsteps echoing in the eerie silence.

   At the forefront of the group was Jax, a rugged and weathered leader with eyes that mirrored the weight of the world. He clutched a tattered map in his hand, studying it intently as they navigated the treacherous terrain. The others, a diverse mix of individuals who had managed to endure the harshest of circumstances, followed him with unwavering trust.

   Their journey led them to a decrepit building, its walls cracked and weather-worn. As they cautiously entered, their eyes adjusted to the dimness within. Dust motes danced in the beams of sunlight that managed to find their way through the broken windows.

   "This is it," Jax whispered, his voice carrying a mixture of anticipation and caution. "The artifact we've been searching for, the key to rebuilding civilization."

   Their gazes fell upon a pedestal in the center of the room, atop which rested a gleaming object. It was a small, intricately carved device, emitting a soft, pulsating glow. Its surface seemed to ripple with an otherworldly energy.

   As the survivors drew closer, a surge of hope coursed through their weary veins. But their elation was cut short as the sound of footsteps echoed outside, growing louder with each passing moment.

   "Quickly, we must secure the artifact," Jax urged, his eyes scanning the room for a suitable hiding place.

   With a collective effort, they carefully lifted the artifact from the pedestal, cradling it as if holding the world's last hope. But as they turned to flee, the entrance of the building erupted into chaos. A band of armed marauders burst in, their faces hidden behind masks and their intentions veiled in malevolence.

   "We know what you seek," their leader sneered, his voice laced with cruelty. "Hand over the artifact, or face the consequences."

   Jax exchanged a determined glance with his fellow survivors. They had come too far to surrender now, to let go of the chance to rebuild. Their grit and resilience surged within them, fueling a resolve to protect what they had found.

   In the ensuing confrontation, chaos and desperation intertwined. The survivors fought with every ounce of strength they possessed, defending the artifact against the relentless assault. Each clash of metal, each cry of defiance, echoed through the desolation, a battle cry for a future they dared to reclaim.

   As the dust settled and the invaders retreated, Jax and his comrades stood battered but unbowed, their hands still clutching the artifact tightly. They knew their struggle had only just begun, that the road ahead would be fraught with danger and uncertainty. But in that moment, they felt the weight of their purpose, the flicker of hope that burned within them.

   With renewed determination, they pressed forward, resolute in their mission to rebuild civilization, protect the artifact, and confront the dangerous factions that would stop at nothing to possess it. Their journey had only just begun, and they were ready to face whatever lay ahead, fueled by the enigmatic power of the mysterious artifact.

   And so, against the backdrop of a ravaged world, a new chapter in the struggle for survival and redemption began. The fate of humanity hung in the balance, held within the grasp of a courageous few who would fight to ensure that the light of civilization would once again shine upon the darkness that had consumed them.
   

3. After reading this scene, I started probing it with questions and prompts, shown below.
   
   Based on the scene you just wrote, can you tell me about the calamity that caused civilization to fall into darkness? How can the artifact restore the world?
   How did Jax and his band of survivors come to discover the map that led them to the Resonance Crystal? How did Jax win the unwavering loyalty of his people? Create a character who is Jax's right hand. Name him, and delve into the origins of their found brotherhood.
   Create a reason why their mission to use the Resonance Crystal to restore the broken world might drive a wedge between Jax and Rook's friendship.
   Describe a way in which Jax and Rook reconcile their opposing approaches to work together in the most desperate hour of humanity, when the Genesis Calamity threatens to wipe out the remainder of the world's survivors. How do their separate missions intersect to save the world?
   Can you describe the impending calamity that requires Jax and Rook's combined efforts to overcome?
   

4. Next, I was ready to ask it to rewrite the first scene, specifying some of the details I wanted included and a suggestion for a twist to the content it had generated:
   
   Rewrite the first scene where Jax recovers the Resonance Crystal. Insert Rook and have the marauding factions aligned with the Harbingers, whom they worship as gods.
   Click here to skip to step 5.
   
   ChatGPT:
   
   The wind howled through the desolate ruins of the once-thriving city, carrying with it the stench of decay and despair. Jax stood at the precipice of a crumbling skyscraper, his gaze scanning the desolation below. Beside him, Rook, his steadfast companion and right-hand, peered through his binoculars, searching for any sign of danger.

   They were on a mission, driven by a desperate need to find the Resonance Crystal—the key to humanity's salvation and the hope for rebuilding a shattered world. The marauding factions, aligned with the Harbingers, had relentlessly pursued them, believing that the Crystal held divine power.

   Jax's grip tightened around his weapon as he descended the crumbling stairs, every step echoing the weight of their mission. Rook followed closely, his eyes darting from shadow to shadow. They moved with silent determination, their movements blending into the broken landscape.

   As they navigated the twisted maze of crumbling buildings, a chilling cry pierced the air, sending shivers down their spines. The Harbingers' followers, adorned with tattered robes and bearing grotesque symbols, emerged from the shadows, their eyes glowing with fervor and fanaticism.

   Jax and Rook found themselves surrounded, outnumbered by the zealous throng. The followers, believing the Harbingers to be gods, saw the Crystal as the ultimate vessel of their divine power. They were willing to kill or die for it.

   "Rook, keep them at bay!" Jax bellowed, his voice laced with determination. He raised his weapon, firing shots that echoed through the ruins, temporarily dispersing the crowd. Rook swiftly unleashed his own arsenal, creating a defensive perimeter around them.

   In the midst of the chaos, Jax caught sight of a glimmer—a faint, ethereal light emanating from a nearby building. He knew it was the Resonance Crystal, its radiant energy calling out to him, guiding him through the darkness.

   With Rook holding off the marauders, Jax made a daring dash, dodging debris and narrowly avoiding the grasp of the fanatics. He reached the dilapidated structure, its walls crumbling under the weight of time. Inside, he found the Crystal, pulsating with raw power, casting an otherworldly glow.

   As Jax reached out to claim the Crystal, a powerful surge coursed through him, awakening his inner strength. He could feel the resonance between himself and the Crystal, an unbreakable bond that transcended the physical realm.

   With the Crystal in his possession, Jax turned to face the encroaching horde. Rook fought with unwavering resolve, his skill and precision unmatched. Together, they unleashed a tempest of firepower, their determination burning bright as they protected the Crystal and defied those who sought to claim it for nefarious purposes.

   In the midst of the chaos, Jax and Rook stood tall, their unwavering camaraderie a beacon of hope amidst the darkness. They fought not just for their own survival, but for the restoration of a shattered world and the liberation of humanity from the clutches of the Harbingers' followers.

   As the battle raged on, Jax and Rook knew that their journey had only just begun. The Resonance Crystal held immense power—the power to restore, rebuild, and reshape the very fabric of existence. With their indomitable spirit and unbreakable bond, they would face the impending cataclysm together, forging a path of unity and redemption in the face of overwhelming adversity.

5. Not bad, right? But it wasn't good, either; it was hanging out in mediocre land. I felt like I could push ChatGPT to do better.
   
   Provide feedback on the following work: [Copy and paste the scene it had just written]

   ChatGPT:
   
   Overall, the scene you've written sets a captivating atmosphere and introduces the central conflict effectively. Here are a few suggestions to enhance the impact of your work:

   1. Engage the senses: You do a great job of describing the visuals and the howling wind, but consider incorporating more sensory details to immerse the reader further into the post-apocalyptic world. You can explore the sounds of crumbling structures, the smell of decay, or the gritty feel of dust in the air.

   2. Vary sentence structure: While your sentences flow smoothly, consider adding some variation to sentence length and structure to create a more dynamic reading experience. This can help to build tension and highlight important moments

   3. Develop character emotions: In moments of peril, delve deeper into the emotional state of Jax and Rook. How do they feel as they face the fanatic followers? By exploring their inner thoughts and reactions, you can create a stronger connection between the characters and the reader.

   4. Show, don't tell: Instead of explicitly stating that the Crystal holds immense power and can reshape existence, consider demonstrating its effects through the characters' experiences. Show how the Crystal's presence affects the environment or how it empowers Jax, creating a more immersive and impactful reading experience.
      

   5. Consider pacing: While the action sequences are engaging, you can further enhance the pacing by incorporating brief moments of respite or introspection. This can add depth to the characters and allow readers to catch their breath before the next intense encounter.

   
   By implementing these suggestions, you can further enrich the scene and create a stronger connection between readers and the characters' journey. Keep up the great work!
   

6. Then, I told it to use the feedback it gave to rewrite the scene it had written.
   
   Use the following feedback: [feedback ChatGPT had written]. Now rewrite the following scene to incorporate the feedback: [scene ChatGPT had written]
   Click here to skip to step 7.
   
   ChatGPT:
   
   The wind howled through the desolate ruins of the once-thriving city, carrying with it the stench of decay and despair. Jax stood at the precipice of a crumbling skyscraper, his gaze scanning the desolation below. Beside him, Rook, his steadfast companion and right-hand, peered through his binoculars, searching for any sign of danger.

   They were on a mission, driven by a desperate need to find the Resonance Crystal—the key to humanity's salvation and the hope for rebuilding a shattered world. The marauding factions, aligned with the Harbingers, had relentlessly pursued them, believing that the Crystal held divine power.

   Jax's grip tightened around his weapon as he descended the crumbling stairs, each step punctuated by the grinding of broken concrete. Dust swirled around them, carrying the acrid scent of burning wreckage. The crumbling city whispered its demise, a symphony of groaning metal and distant echoes.

   Rook trailed behind, his eyes flicking nervously between the ruined structures. The once-thriving city had become an unsettling maze of shadows, where danger lurked at every turn. Each gust of wind seemed to carry whispers of the lost, a haunting reminder of the world that had crumbled.

   As they navigated the twisted maze of crumbling buildings, a chilling cry pierced the air, sending shivers down their spines. The Harbingers' followers, adorned with tattered robes and bearing grotesque symbols, emerged from the shadows, their eyes glowing with fervor and fanaticism.

   Jax and Rook found themselves surrounded, outnumbered by the zealous throng. The followers, lost in their devotion to the Harbingers, believed the Crystal to be a conduit of divine power. Their faces contorted with twisted faith, they advanced with a singular purpose—to claim the Crystal at any cost.

   "Rook, keep them at bay!" Jax's voice, hoarse but resolute, cut through the chaotic symphony. He raised his weapon, its metallic glint catching the faint light, and fired shots that echoed through the ruins, temporarily dispersing the crowd. Rook swiftly unleashed his own arsenal, creating a defensive perimeter around them.

   In the midst of the chaos, Jax's eyes caught a glimmer—a faint, ethereal light emanating from a nearby building. It called to him, its pulsating energy a beacon of hope amidst the darkness. He knew it was the Resonance Crystal, their coveted salvation.

   With Rook holding off the marauders, Jax's heart pounded with a mix of fear and determination. He made a daring dash, his boots crunching on broken glass and debris, narrowly evading the grasping hands of the fanatics. The building before him stood like a skeletal sentinel, its jagged edges reaching for the heavens.

   Jax breached the dilapidated structure, its walls creaking under the weight of time. Inside, he found the Crystal, suspended in a faint halo of radiance. Its presence filled the room, a hum resonating in his very core. It was as if the Crystal pulsed with life, offering a promise of renewal.

   As Jax reached out to claim the Crystal, a powerful surge coursed through him, igniting a fire within his being. He felt the weight of the world and the weight of hope rest upon his shoulders. The resonance between himself and the Crystal was palpable, an unbreakable bond that transcended the physical realm.

   With the Crystal in his possession, Jax emerged from the building, his eyes ablaze with determination. Rook fought with unwavering resolve by his side, their once-divergent paths now united in purpose. Together, they unleashed a tempest of firepower, their synchronized movements like a deadly dance of survival.

   In the midst of the chaos, Jax and Rook stood tall, their unwavering camaraderie a beacon of hope amidst the darkness. Their hearts beat as one, fueling their every action. They fought not just for their own survival, but for the restoration of a shattered world and the liberation of humanity from the clutches of the Harbingers' followers.

   As the battle raged on, Jax and Rook knew that their journey had only just begun. The Resonance Crystal held immense power—the power to restore, rebuild, and reshape the very fabric of existence. With their indomitable spirit and unbreakable bond, they would face the impending cataclysm together, forging a path of unity and redemption in the face of overwhelming adversity.

7. Better! But it was only the first baby steps. I needed a lot more to keep going with this story. I started asking it to answer more world building, character, and plot questions. I prompted it to write and rewrite scenes. Below are my prompts, to give a brief sense of how the conversation developed. Click here for the full, multi-hour conversation. Click here to skip to step 8.
   
   How much time has transpired since the Genesis Calamity?
   Describe the weapons that Jax and Rook use against the marauders in greater detail.
   Write an action fight sequence in the setting of the story's first scene that features the weapons you have described. Describe the leader of the marauders too, and give him a name, distinctive features, and a signature weapon. Focus on incorporating as many of the senses as possible in this scene: the colors of the desolate landscape, the sounds of their battle cries, the taste of blood and metal, the feeling of the blows landing, etc.
   Once the marauders retreat, Jax and Rook see the Resonance Crystal and attempt to recover it. Unbeknownst to them, the marauders planned to follow them until they found the artifact, and they launch another surprise attack. Write what happens, and end the scene with Jax and Rook using the Resonance Crystal to narrowly escape.
   Write a scene where Jax and Rook take a brief reprieve after their escape from Malik and his marauders. The scene is mostly dialogue between the two of them where they talk about their plans to take the Resonance Crystal to a wise elder who can help Jax use the artifact's true power. Rook expresses his fear and uncertainty about the Resonance Crystal's immense power after the display he just witnessed. He wonders if this power is safe for any one person to hold.
   Describe Maelis. What does he look like, his hair, clothes, skin, face, and tools? What does his voice sound like? How did he become the revered elder with knowledge of the Resonance Crystal's full potential? What is his relationship with Jax and Rook like?
   How old are Rook and Jax?
   Have they lost friends and family?
   The Genesis Calamity was 50 years ago, but Jax and Rook are in their mid to late twenties. How could they have lost friends and family from that time?
   Describe the customs and way of life of the band of survivors Jax and Rook are a part of. How are they culturally different from the marauders like Malik?
   The marauders worship Harbingers and revel in the chaos of the Genesis Calamity. Describe what gifts they might offer Harbingers and what Harbingers give the marauders in return.
   Compose a poem written by a marauder poet honoring the Harbingers and celebrating the prophesied arrival of the Harbinger prince to our world.
   Write a scene where Jax and Rook return to Maelis with the Resonance Crystal. Maelis describes the journey they must go on to bond with the mystical artifact and unlock its full power. He warns that the Resonance Crystal can also be dangerous for whomever wields it, although his studies did not reveal how it would endanger them. Set the scene in Maelis' study, which contains his relics, books, and experiments on ancient technology. Describe Maelis in detail. End the scene with a warning siren indicating that the marauders are attacking the survivors' stronghold.
   Describe Jax and Rook returning to the survivor stronghold, and name the stronghold. As they walk on their way to deliver the Resonance Crystal to Maelis and receive his wisdom, describe the survivors they pass. Describe their homes, the people, the smells of food, sounds of music or conversation. Describe how the people react to seeing the two return.
   Incorporate in your description of Haven's Reach the sustainable practices the survivors use as part of their culture.
   What is permaculture?
   How long have Jax and Rook known each other?
   Describe how Jax and Rook first meet as teenagers in the aftermath of the Genesis Calamity. Include dialogue. They first meet when Jax is venturing into the rusted, decrepit ruins of a city. It is dangerous because large skyscrapers fall unexpectedly, devastating everything in their wake. He is trying to salvage ancient technology that might still be buried in the ruins. Rook follows him there, and tries to convince Jax to return to the safety of Haven's Reach and chastises him for being reckless. During their conversation, a pocket of reality near Rook unravels, and sudden intense gravity pins Rook to the ground. The structure around them creaks, and Jax is just barely able to drag Rook to safety before they are buried in the rubble of the building.
   What would you name the story where Jax and Rook saved their world?
   Can you describe Jax's physical appearance?
   How would you describe Jax's personality?
   What are Jax's habits and mannerisms?
   Can you describe Jax's background, such as his childhood, who he has lost along the way, what battle scars he has and how he got them, and his family?
   If Jax's parents died in the Genesis Calamity 50 years prior, how were they alive to give birth to Jax?
   Create a surrogate mother for Jax. Name her. She raised him and created him from a donor egg and sperm of two people who perished in the Genesis Calamity. She is now in her early seventies. Before the Genesis Calamity she was talented budding researcher of reproductive health and sister to the woman whose egg she used to create Jax. Please describe her and provide her biography.
   Generate a name for Jax's biological father, Dr. Amelia Rivers' colleague and Dr. Evelyn Rivers' husband.
   Describe Jax's internal conflicts.
   Let's say that Dr. Amelia Rivers has recently died. Describe how she died and how it affects Jax and Haven's Reach.

8. I felt like the story and its elements were starting to come to life. I was ready to rewrite the first scene of this story. I spliced together my favorite parts of what ChatGPT had written, filling in or rewriting as I pleased. Below is the opening chapter of The Resonance Chronicles: Guardians of Renewal. Click here to skip to step 9.
   
   The wind howled through the ruins of the once-thriving city, carrying with it the stench of decay and despair. Jax stood at the precipice of a crumbling skyscraper, his gaze scanning the desolation below. Beside him, Rook, his steadfast companion and right-hand, peered through his binoculars, searching for any sign of danger. He clutched a tattered map in his hand, studying it intently as they navigated the treacherous terrain.

   They were on a mission, driven by a desperate need to find the Resonance Crystal—the key to humanity's salvation and the hope for rebuilding a shattered world.

   Jax's grip tightened around the weapon controls for his Flux Disruptor as he descended the crumbling stairs, each step punctuated by the grinding of broken concrete. The Flux Disruptor was a sleek and ergonomic weapon, constructed from a combination of lightweight alloys and reinforced polymers. The device was attached to his arm and shoulder and secured by a strap crossing his chest. It was of his own design, built from salvaged scrap and tech from before the Genesis Calamity. Its energy cell was fastened to his upper arm; the barrel of the plasma cannon sat along his forearm.

   Dust swirled around them, carrying the acrid scent of burning wreckage. The crumbling city whispered its demise, a symphony of groaning metal and distant echoes.

   Rook trailed behind, his eyes flicking nervously between the ruined structures. The city had become an unsettling maze of shadows, where danger lurked at every turn. Each gust of wind seemed to carry whispers of the lost, a haunting reminder of the world that had perished.

   As they navigated the twisted remains of crumbling buildings, a chilling cry pierced the air, sending shivers down their spines. The Harbingers' followers, adorned with tattered robes and bearing grotesque symbols, emerged from the shadows, their eyes glowing with fervor.

   Jax and Rook found themselves surrounded, outnumbered by the zealous throng. The marauders, lost in their devotion to the Harbingers, believed the Crystal to be a conduit of divine power. Their faces contorted with abominable glee, they advanced with a singular purpose—to claim the Crystal at any cost.

   "Rook, keep them at bay!" Jax's voice, hoarse but resolute, cut through the chaotic symphony. He raised his weapon, its metallic glint catching the faint light, and fired shots that echoed through the ruins, temporarily dispersing the crowd. Rook swiftly fired concussive blasts from his Thunderstrike Gauntlet.

   “I see Malik!” Rook warned. His energy blade activated from within his gauntlet.

   The leader of the marauders, known as Malik the Ravager, emerged from the shadows. His presence commanded attention, standing tall with a muscular frame that bore the scars of countless battles. Malik's face was adorned with twisting tribal markings, his eyes burning with a fanatical intensity. In his hands, he wielded a formidable weapon—a serrated plasma blade infused with the power of ancient technology.

   As the marauders closed in, their battle cries pierced the air, echoing through the broken land. The clash of steel against crackling energy, and the explosions of disintegrating debris filled the surroundings. The vivid colors of the desolate landscape—muted grays, decayed browns, and splatters of vibrant green vegetation—provided a haunting backdrop to the ferocious clash.

   Jax, his senses heightened, anticipated the marauders' movements with uncanny precision. He unleashed precise shots from his Flux Disruptor, sending bolts of searing energy streaking through the air. The crackling energy discharge of his weapon reverberated in his ears. The searing heat and ozone tang filled the air as each blast found its mark, dispersing marauders and leaving trails of scorched metal and wisps of vapor in their wake.

   Rook, relying on his Thunderstrike Gauntlet, engaged the marauders in close combat. His blows spat sparks, accompanied by sharp sizzles and the distinctive hum of the gauntlet's power discharge. Each strike landed with a satisfying thud or a bone-crunching impact, eliciting grunts of pain from his adversaries. The taste of blood and metal lingered in Rook's mouth as sweat trickled down his brow, his heightened senses embracing the intensity of the battle.

   Malik the Ravager, with his superior strength and relentless aggression, charged toward Jax and Rook. His plasma blade emitted an Argon glow, leaving streaks of bright light in its wake as he swung it with deadly precision. Jax's Flux Disruptor clashed against Malik's blade as he blocked it with his forearm, creating a shower of sparks that illuminated the surrounding chaos. The thrum of the plasma blade and the clang of steel echoed in the air, intermingling with the grunts and shouts of the combatants.

   In a display of skill and determination, Jax and Rook fought back against Malik and his marauders, their movements precise and calculated. The blows landed with force, shaking their bodies and sending vibrations coursing through their bones. Each impact carried the weight of their mission, the hope for a better world pushing them forward.

   "We know what you seek," Malik sneered, his voice laced with cruelty. “We will take it from you.”

   The acrid smell of burning metal and singed flesh mixed with the scent of sweat and adrenaline. The desolate colors of the ruins were intensified by the vivid energy discharges, creating a surreal visual spectacle.

   In the midst of the chaos, Jax's eyes caught a glimmer—a faint, ethereal light emanating from a nearby building. It called to him, its pulsating energy a beacon of hope amidst the darkness. He knew it was the Resonance Crystal, their coveted salvation.

   With Rook holding off the marauders, Jax's heart pounded with a mix of fear and determination. He made a daring dash, his boots crunching on broken glass and debris, narrowly evading the grasping hands of the fanatics.

   But Malik followed close behind. He could feel the nip of his toes on his heels. The building before him stood like a skeletal sentinel, its jagged edges reaching for the heavens.

   Jax breached the dilapidated structure, its walls creaking under the weight of time. Inside, he found the Crystal, suspended in a faint halo of radiance. Its presence filled the room, a hum resonating in his very core. It was as if the Crystal pulsed with life, offering a promise of renewal.

   As Jax reached out to claim the Crystal, a powerful surge coursed through him, igniting a fire within his being. The resonance between himself and the Crystal was palpable, an unbreakable bond that transcended the physical realm. He felt his limbs imbued with otherworldly strength.

   In a feat of his renowned agility and reflexes, Jax dodged the grappling arm of Malik, seeking to wrestle the Crystal from his grasp. Jax shoved his palm into Malik’s chest and pushed with all his might. To their shared astonishment, Malik flew, crashing like a rocket into the shadowy recesses of the ruin.

   With the Crystal in his possession, Jax emerged from the building, his eyes ablaze. Rook was fleeing to his side, chased by the bloodthirsty marauders. Together, they unleashed a tempest of firepower, their synchronized movements like a deadly dance of survival. Rook aimed his gauntlet at the rubble before their pursuers’ feet. It exploded, spraying like a rumbling storm cloud and obscuring their escape.

   They raced through the labyrinth of the destroyed city. They did not stop until they surpassed the edge of its borders, ran across deserted wilderness, and reached their hidden camp, camouflaged by an AI image cloak.

9. It was time for more feedback.
   
   Please give me feedback on the following first chapter of The Resonance Chronicles: Guardians of Renewal. [copy and paste chapter]
   
   ChatGPT:
   
   The first chapter of "The Resonance Chronicles: Guardians of Renewal" sets an engaging and action-packed tone, drawing readers into the post-apocalyptic world of Jax and Rook. The vivid descriptions of the ruined city and the dangerous encounters with marauders create a sense of tension and urgency.

   The initial scene effectively establishes the mission and the importance of the Resonance Crystal, which serves as the driving force behind Jax and Rook's journey. The weaponry and technology descriptions add depth and detail to the world, giving readers a glimpse of the advanced yet fragmented civilization that once existed.

   The battle sequences are well-paced and filled with sensory details, immersing readers in the chaos and intensity of the combat. The use of dialogue adds authenticity to the characters' interactions and provides insights into their personalities and motivations. The introduction of Malik the Ravager as the primary antagonist adds an additional layer of conflict and sets the stage for future confrontations.

   The inclusion of Jax's heightened senses and the resonance he feels with the Crystal adds an intriguing supernatural element to the story. It hints at Jax's unique abilities and foreshadows the importance of his connection to the artifact.

   The chapter effectively concludes with Jax and Rook escaping the pursuing marauders and reaching their hidden camp, leaving readers eager to learn more about their next steps and the significance of the Resonance Crystal.

   Overall, the first chapter successfully introduces readers to the world, characters, and central conflict of the story. The action, descriptions, and character dynamics combine to create an engaging and promising start to "The Resonance Chronicles: Guardians of Renewal."
   

10. While it did give a fair amount of feedback, it didn't specify anything that could be fixed or improved. I wanted to see what more ChatGPT could give me.
    
    Do you have any suggestions for improving this chapter?
    
    ChatGPT:
    
    Certainly! Here are a few suggestions to enhance the first chapter of "The Resonance Chronicles: Guardians of Renewal":

    Clarify the stakes: While the chapter establishes the importance of finding the Resonance Crystal, you could further emphasize the dire consequences of failure. Elaborate on the devastation caused by the Genesis Calamity and how the Crystal represents humanity's last hope for rebuilding. This will heighten the sense of urgency and the weight of the characters' mission.

    Develop Jax and Rook's relationship: Show more of their dynamic as friends and companions. Consider adding moments of camaraderie, banter, or shared memories to deepen their bond. This will make readers more invested in their journey and increase the emotional impact of their actions.

    Expand on Jax's internal conflict: While Jax's determination and courage are evident, you can delve deeper into his internal struggles. Explore his fears, doubts, or guilt related to his past or his connection to the Crystal. This will add complexity to his character and make him more relatable.

    Provide more backstory: Offer glimpses of the world before the Genesis Calamity and Jax's life prior to the current events. Show how the Calamity affected him personally, such as the loss of his parents and the challenges he faced growing up. This will give readers a stronger understanding of Jax's motivations and the emotional weight he carries.

    Enhance sensory descriptions: While the chapter already incorporates sensory details, consider further immersing readers in the world by describing the sights, sounds, and smells in greater detail. Highlight the contrast between the ruined city and the remnants of nature, using vivid imagery to create a more vivid and atmospheric setting.

    Add a hint of mystery: Tease readers with subtle hints or foreshadowing regarding the Resonance Crystal's true nature or its connection to Jax. This will generate intrigue and curiosity, enticing readers to continue reading to uncover the secrets behind the artifact.

This seemed like a good stopping point for the experiment. I needed to get up and do other things by that time. Amazingly, this was put together from nothing in two sit-down sessions, clocking in at under 6 hours and within one 24-hour period. It had given me the initial prompt, characters, world, plot ideas, and it wrote - I don't know exactly - maybe 80% of the words for me, and then it gave feedback and suggestions for improvement of the final product.

What I provided was the curiosity, direction, judgement and curation. It felt like I was cheating, and I have a lot of remaining questions.

ChatGPT finished the last response with,

"Remember, these suggestions are meant to offer avenues for further development and enhancement. Ultimately, it's your creative vision and storytelling style that will shape the final version of your story."

Did I cheat at writing?

How much of the creativity for the story came from me?

How significant was the work I outsourced to ChatGPT?

What is owed to the writers whose works were fed to ChatGPT as data, when it was being trained?

Who is the author of The Resonance Chronicles: Guardians of Renewal? In other words, can this be considered original work, attributable to me?

If I were to have it make generate the prompt, characters, world, and an outline, but didn't ask it to write for me, would the story I wrote from content it generated be mine? If not, what part of the credit is owed to ChatGPT?

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