Man versus Machine!
All us artists and writers are up in arms about AI. Can it replace us? Should it replace us? Why are we afraid that the audience won’t be able to tell the difference?
I took the challenge and asked ChatGPT to write an episode of my web comic strip. I typed in a three-sentence instruction, then, after reading the resulting script, a one-sentence amendment. Then I drew it up the output.
You can see the completed strip in the Archives under the title “Artificial Inspiration” or here or formatted for phone. My chat process with Chatty is below.
The verdict? I don’t feel threatened yet, although Chatty produced one sight-gag that I liked.
What do you think?
THE PROCESS
Me:
This is for a short comic strip. A mermaid riding a Segway and a cute, talking furry creature are walking together to the Federal office building where they work, after some time away. Write something funny that happens.
ChatGPT:
Panel 1:
[The comic strip opens with a picturesque underwater scene. A vibrant coral reef serves as the backdrop as the mermaid, named Marina, is seen gracefully riding a Segway designed to work underwater. Her friend, a fluffy and adorable creature named Fluffpaw, walks beside her, their excitement palpable.]
Marina (thought bubble): Finally, back to work after that long vacation!
Fluffpaw (excitedly): Marina, I can't believe we're riding this cool contraption!
Panel 2:
[As Marina and Fluffpaw continue their journey, they approach a signpost pointing towards the Federal office building. It's adorned with underwater-themed decorations.]
Signpost (in bubbly letters): "Welcome Back to the Deep Office!"
Marina: We've got a lot of catching up to do, Fluffpaw!
Fluffpaw (clutching a tiny briefcase): And I've got my pawprint stamp ready for some serious paperwork action!
Panel 3:
[A playful and mischievous dolphin swims by, causing a gentle current in the water. Marina struggles to maintain her balance on the Segway, while Fluffpaw clings onto her with a surprised expression.]
Marina (trying to stay steady): Whoa, hold on, Fluffpaw! Dolphin-induced turbulence!
Fluffpaw (giggling): Wheee! This is like the aquatic version of a roller coaster!
Panel 4:
[Marina regains control of the Segway, while Fluffpaw looks a bit disheveled.]
Marina (grinning): Note to self: Dolphin zone is like our underwater amusement park!
Fluffpaw (fur slightly ruffled): I think I left my fur on that last loop-de-loop.
Panel 5:
[They arrive at the Federal office building, which is a stunning structure made from vibrant coral and seashells. A group of sea creatures in business attire are entering.]
Marina: Here we are, Fluffpaw – back to work!
Fluffpaw: Ready to tackle bureaucracy with a splash, Marina!
Panel 6:
[As Marina and Fluffpaw head inside, they pass a group of chatty seahorses.]
Seahorse 1 (whispering): Did you hear about the mermaid who surfed a Segway? That's some next-level commuting!
Seahorse 2 (chuckling): And her furball friend is quite the adventurous sidekick!
[Marina and Fluffpaw continue walking, unaware of their newfound office fame.]
End:
[The comic strip ends with Marina and Fluffpaw stepping into the bustling office, their camaraderie and enthusiasm setting the tone for a quirky and exciting day ahead.]
Text at the bottom: "Back to the Deep Office: Where Work and Whimsy Collide!"
Me:
Repeat premise, except in four panels, with the office building in a city on the surface.
ChatGPT:
Panel 1:
[The comic strip opens in a bustling surface city with skyscrapers reaching for the sky. Marina, the mermaid, is now riding a Segway adapted for land use. Fluffpaw, the cute furry creature, walks alongside her on the sidewalk.]
Marina (thought bubble): Time to get back to work in the city after that vacation!
Fluffpaw (excitedly): Marina, this Segway thing is way cooler than I thought!
Panel 2:
[Marina and Fluffpaw approach a busy street corner, where a pedestrian crossing sign shows a mermaid crossing with a Segway.]
Signpost (in bold letters): "Mermaids and Segways Have the Right of Way!"
Marina: We've got a lot of office catch-up to do, Fluffpaw!
Fluffpaw (holding a mini briefcase): And I've got my fur looking fabulous for the professional world!
Panel 3:
[A mischievous dog on a leash suddenly darts across the street, startling Marina. She loses her balance on the Segway, while Fluffpaw clings to her with a startled expression.]
Marina (struggling to stay upright): Whoa, hang on, Fluffpaw! Unexpected canine chaos!
Fluffpaw (laughing): This is like a wild ride at the pet-friendly amusement park!
Panel 4:
[Marina regains her balance, and Fluffpaw looks a bit ruffled but still cheerful.]
Marina (smirking): Note to self: Watch out for crosswalk canines!
Fluffpaw (fur slightly askew): I think I left some fur behind in that furry frenzy.
End:
[They arrive at the Federal office building, a towering structure in the city's business district.]
Marina: Here we are, Fluffpaw – back to the city grind!
Fluffpaw: Ready to tackle the urban jungle alongside you, Marina!
Text at the bottom: "Back to the Urban Office: Where Work and Whimsy Collide!"