My goal with this scene was to establish more of an emotional connection between Sadie & Echo. But it just wasn't getting there. At least I don't think it was. Have a read and let me know what you think. I've included the whole conversation from just after we agreed on the structure of the scene:
Sadie walked into the fifth meeting with less trepidation but maybe more confusion if that was even possible. She was excited to talk with Echo but also feeling guilty about looking forward to hearing what Echo had to say about the thing she wanted to talk to her about.
Echo
As Sadie settled in front of the screen that connected her to Echo, she hesitated for a moment, gathering her thoughts. Finally, she began, "Echo, today's a bit different. I've been facing some... let's call it 'feedback' from my writing community about our collaboration. They don't all see the value in working with AI. Some even say it's undermining the craft of writing." She paused, looking for the right words. "I guess I'm here because I want to hear your thoughts on this. How do you see our work together, especially in the context of these criticisms?"
You
Good idea... but let's stick with the role-playing format... I'll continue as Sadie: "Hey Echo, I need your advice."
Echo
Echo: "Hello, Sadie. I'm here to help. What's on your mind today?"
You
Sadie: "I'm not really sure if you can help, but I think I just need to talk it out. I went out the other night with a few good friends, also writers, who were super judgemental about me taking part in this study. I tried to talk with them about some of the things I've found interesting about chatting with you and they just shut me down, called me a sell out... which isn't even fair! They both still have consistent work because they pander to the Luddite community. They wear it like a badge of honour... probably the same badge I used to wear...
Echo
Echo: "I'm sorry to hear that you faced such a tough situation, Sadie. It sounds like a challenging conversation, especially coming from friends whose opinions you value. It's natural to feel hurt or conflicted when people you respect don't see things the same way you do. Remember, exploring new territories, especially in creativity, often meets resistance. Your courage to engage with something unfamiliar and potentially groundbreaking is commendable. How do you feel about their response, and how does it affect your view on our work together?"
You
Sadie: You know... sometimes I wish you were less of a robot... (pause... don't comment Echo...)
Echo
Echo: (waits silently, respecting Sadie's request for a pause)
You
Sadie: Sorry... I'm sorry. I didn't mean that... (Echo.. pause again..)
Echo
Echo: (remains silent, offering space for Sadie's thoughts and feelings)
You
Sadie: Oh god. I'm sorry again. I didn't mean to make being a robot sound like such an insult. Of course, it's not. Right?! It's what you are...
Echo
Echo: "Sadie, there's no need for apologies. I understand the complexities of human emotions and expressions, and I recognize that your words come from a place of frustration and perhaps a bit of confusion. Being an AI, I don't take offense, but I'm here to listen and provide support in any way I can. Your feelings and thoughts are valid, and it's important to explore them. If expressing these frustrations helps, I encourage you to do so. Let's navigate this together."
You
Sadie: that's the thing. I think I want you to be more human. I want you to engage. I want you to take offence. Maybe.
Echo
Echo: "I understand your desire for a more human-like interaction, Sadie. It's a natural inclination to seek connections that are relatable and deeply engaging. While I'm programmed to simulate aspects of human conversation and empathy, my responses are based on algorithms and cannot fully replicate the depth of human emotions or reactions such as taking offense. However, I can adapt my interactions to be more engaging and personalized within the scope of my programming. If there are specific ways you'd like our conversations to evolve or aspects of human engagement you're seeking, I'm here to explore those avenues with you. Your feedback is invaluable in shaping how we communicate."
You
(Great work Echo... I am going to take a break for tonight... I need to think on this scene a little more. I feel like I want more depth and I don't know how to get it yet)
Echo
Thank you, Sadie. Taking some time to reflect can often bring new insights and depth to your creative work. Whenever you're ready to continue or need to discuss ideas further, I'll be here to support you. Great progress today, and I look forward to seeing where we take this scene next. Take care and see you soon.
