I Ask AI To Write a Book Review
I asked Artificial Intelligence (AI) to write a book review of Babel by R.F. Kuang. It took me three tries before AI wrote a reasonable book review—reasonable but not usable. On the first try, I didn’t include “book” in my question, so I got a review of the movie Babel. I re-asked the question using “book.” This time, AI wrote a review of a book but with a completely wrong description. The review describes a science-fiction book set in the future that examines the dangers of advanced, artificial intelligence. The actual book is set in the past and has nothing about AI. I believe I confused the AI by using “AI Test” as the title of the page on which I was posing the question.
After changing the title of the page to “Review Of Babel,” AI wrote a review with accurate content but still with two big problems. One is that it focused on one theme in the book, the importance of language and translation, at the cost of leaving out what I thought were more important themes like the negative effects of colonialism and the Industrial Revolution, class, race, friendship, and loyalty. The second problem is that much of the review is trite. The AI-generated review is below with the trite bits highlighted.
I tried one last time and asked “Can you please write a non-trite review of the book Babel.” That question generated the best review thus far, still trite but less so. It completely lacks any personal touch. It is at the very bottom below.
AI-Generated Book Review (trite phrases are highlighted)
"Babel" is an extraordinary book that takes readers on a captivating journey through a world of language and communication. The author masterfully weaves together multiple storylines, each representing a different perspective on the power and limitations of language.
From the very beginning, "Babel" grabs hold of the reader's attention and never lets go. The characters in the book are richly developed, with their struggles and triumphs resonating deeply with the reader. Whether it's a character grappling with language barriers or navigating through misunderstandings, their experiences are both relatable and thought-provoking.
One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its exploration of the complexities of translation. The author skillfully dives into the nuances of language, showing how words can shape our understanding of the world and how they can sometimes fail to capture the full essence of an idea. Through the characters' encounters with different languages and cultures, the book highlights the challenges and rewards of bridging communication gaps.
What truly sets "Babel" apart is its profound examination of the cultural and societal implications of language. The book raises important questions about identity and belonging, forcing readers to confront the ways in which language can both unite and divide us. It challenges us to reflect on our own relationship with language and the role it plays in shaping our lives and interactions.
The prose in "Babel" is beautifully crafted, with vivid descriptions that transport readers into the heart of each character's experience. The author's skillful storytelling keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end, as the book seamlessly interweaves multiple narratives and perspectives. Each page is filled with lyrical passages that evoke a strong emotional response, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.
Even after finishing the book, its themes continue to resonate and linger in the mind. The exploration of language and communication in "Babel" prompts readers to contemplate the power and complexity of human interaction. It reminds us of the immense influence that language has on our lives, from shaping our understanding of others to defining our sense of self.
In conclusion, "Babel" is a remarkable literary work that celebrates the power and beauty of language. It is a must-read for anyone interested in delving into the intricacies of human communication and the profound impact it has on our lives. With its compelling characters, thought-provoking themes, and masterful storytelling, "Babel" is a book that will stay with readers long after they have turned the final page.
AI-Generated Book Review. (I asked AI to write a non-trite review.)
“Babel" is a truly remarkable and captivating book that delves deep into the intricate and profound world of language and communication. From the very first page, the author's masterful storytelling grabs hold of the reader's attention, taking them on an extraordinary journey through various storylines that explore the power and limitations of language.
What sets "Babel" apart from other books is its exceptional character development. The author skillfully brings each character to life, allowing their struggles and triumphs to resonate deeply with the reader. Whether it's the challenges of language barriers or the complexities of navigating misunderstandings, the characters' experiences are not only relatable but also thought-provoking.
One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its exploration of the complexities of translation. The author dives into the nuances of language, shedding light on how words shape our understanding of the world and how they can sometimes fall short in capturing the true essence of an idea. Through the characters' encounters with different languages and cultures, the book highlights both the challenges and rewards of bridging communication gaps.
But "Babel" goes beyond mere linguistic exploration; it delves into the cultural and societal implications of language. By raising important questions about identity and belonging, the book prompts readers to confront the ways in which language can both unite and divide us. It invites us to reflect on our own relationship with language and how it shapes our lives and interactions.
The prose in "Babel" is nothing short of exquisite. The author's beautifully crafted descriptions transport readers into the heart of each character's experience, evoking strong emotional responses. The seamless interweaving of multiple narratives and perspectives keeps the reader fully engaged from beginning to end.
Even after finishing the book, its themes linger in the mind, leaving a lasting impact. The exploration of language and communication in "Babel" prompts readers to contemplate the power and complexity of human interaction. It serves as a reminder of the immense influence that language has on our lives, shaping our understanding of others and defining our own sense of self.
In conclusion, "Babel" is a remarkable literary work that celebrates the power and beauty of language. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to delve into the intricacies of human communication and the profound impact it has on our lives. With its compelling characters, thought-provoking themes, and masterful storytelling, "Babel" is a book that will stay with readers long after they have turned the final page.