Story by Jon Stalnaker AKA The Studebaker Dude
So what is this Meta AI thing I see on Facebook? I’m probably on Facebook way more often than I should be, but I enjoy messing around with friends I would never get the chance to communicate with if it weren’t for this medium.
I have only recently noticed a new bar under some of the posts that has a blue circle and says “Ask Meta AI.” It then has a list of possible questions about the subject in the post. First I wondered who Al was, then I realized that it was not a lowercase L but an uppercase I and stood for Artificial Intelligence. Being an old man, I am naturally skeptical of all this computer-generated hocus pocus. My curiosity drew me in, and I thought to myself, maybe one day I will test this thing. I got my chance when my Sapulpa Times story from last week had that little Meta AI bar underneath it. Here’s my chance. Since I wrote the story myself, I figured I could ask questions and see if AI was anywhere near aware of what goes on in my head.
My first query was “Tell me more about the author’s experience or perspective.”
Response: “The author, Jon Stalnaker (also known as “The Studebaker Dude”) shares his personal experience of moving from California to Oklahoma in 2021. He initially felt cocky and dismissive about the threat of tornados, thinking that if God wanted to take him out it could happen anywhere. However, after recently experiencing a close call with a tornado and witnessing the devastation it caused, he has gained a new appreciation for the resilience and grit of the Oklahoma people. He expresses a sense of humility and gratitude for being spared, while also acknowledging the difficulty of processing the experience and the fragility of life. He seems to be in awe of the Oklahoman’s ability to deal with natural disasters and is striving to adopt their strength and resolve. The author’s perspective is one of reflection, and a willingness to learn from others. He is open about his initial arrogance and his newfound respect for the people and the place he now calls home.”
My response to this: I am quite impressed. While it is essentially a synopsis of what I wrote, I cannot dispute any of the content. One thing I worry about with the stories I write is that my words can be misinterpreted by people that don’t really know me and my words can come off as something way different than what I mean to say. This AI explanation is accurate to what I intended to say and I was relieved that it didn’t say something way different than what I intended to say. And it replied in a matter of seconds. Amazing.
Sometimes I make up words as I find that fun. But sometimes I worry that people will just think it was a mistake or my spelling skills are pathetic. I asked Meta AI “What is an Oklahomie?”
Answer: The term Oklahomie is likely a colloquial or informal variant of Oklahoman, which refers to a person from or native to the state of Oklahoma in the United States. In the context of the post, the author is expressing their admiration for the resilience and strength of the people of Oklahoma and aspirations to be like them, using Oklahomie as a term of endearment or solidarity. However it’s worth noting that Oklahomie is not an officially recognized term or demonym, and “Oklahoman” is the more commonly used and accepted term.
My response to this: Right on the money…
Maybe I can trip up Meta AI by asking “Why does the author call himself ‘The Studebaker Dude?'”
Answer: “The Author, Jon Stalnaker, likely calls himself ‘The Studebaker Dude’ because of his fondness or association with Studebaker cars. Studebaker was an American wagon & automobile manufacturer that operated from 1852 to 1966. The company was known for its innovative designs and durable vehicles. By adopting this nickname, Jon Stalnaker may be expressing his passion for classic cars, nostalgia, or a sense of retro style. It’s a playful way to personalize his online identity and add a touch of personality to his writing.”
My response: Close enough. There are many other reasons why I call myself the Studebaker Dude but if Meta AI had included details of my association with Studebakers, I would not have liked it. We old people freak out with the mere thought of what these computers know about us. I’m sure that Meta AI knew exactly who was asking these questions and could have known better than to freak me out. Or maybe I’m just an old man that struggles with this world of Artificial Intelligence. Even though it was a little scary to this old man, I was significantly impressed.
