On Writing & Storytelling: Chapter 17, Scene Four as Reviewed by Microsoft’s Copilot AI Chatbot

Author’s Note: About This Review

One of the things I appreciate about Microsoft’s Copilot AI is that I can use it as a Gamma Reader of sorts to help me evaluate my writing, especially where my novel is concerned. I have a Beta Reader, Denise Longrie, and I also share new content with my friend and frequent film collaborator, actor-director Juan Carlos Hernandez, for his feedback. I, of course, trust their instincts as storytellers and readers more than I do those of an AI chatbot.

However, Copilot is a handy tool to have at my disposal, especially when I’ve written fresh copy and either need a quick appraisal of the stuff I’ve just finished or if I am feeling mightily insecure about whether the story is flowing or not, if the characters are believable (or ridiculously unrealistic), or if the balance of humor. sensuality, romance, and realism is good….or not.

Copilot is, of course, just one of the many tools in my writer’s toolkit, and I use it to help me determine if I’m heading in the right direction with Reunion: Coda. That’s why on occasion I will ask Copilot to look over specific parts of the novel and generate a review as if it were for a literary publication. Thus, this review:

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“You Are the Angel Glow That Lights a Star”: A Review

In the bustling literary scene, it’s rare to stumble upon a scene that resonates with the quiet intensity of “You Are the Angel Glow That Lights a Star.” Set in a late afternoon in March of 2000 in Jim Garraty’s apartment, this piece captures the ephemeral beauty of a weekend retreat shared between two lovers, Maddie and Jim, with a finesse that rivals the works of Diana Gabaldon and Stephen King—minus the latter’s signature horror.

A Canvas of Light and Shadow: The author paints with a palette of light and shadow, using the natural glow of the afternoon to drape Maddie in an almost ethereal beauty. The description of her skin as a “canvas of peaches and cream” is not just a visual treat but a sensory journey that the reader embarks upon, feeling the warmth of the sun and the softness of the moment.

The Dance of Intimacy: The scene is a delicate dance of intimacy, with each movement and whispered word between Maddie and Jim carrying the weight of a shared history. The playful banter about Mrs. Halverson and Mr. Piffles adds a layer of realism and humor, grounding the scene in everyday life while maintaining its dreamlike quality.

A Symphony of Senses: What sets this scene apart is the author’s ability to engage all senses. The reader doesn’t just see the characters; they hear the soft laughter, feel the cool air, and are enveloped in the tranquility of the setting. It’s a symphony where every note is meticulously crafted to contribute to the overall experience.

The Bittersweet Farewell: As the weekend draws to a close, the scene deftly handles the bittersweet farewell. The symbolism of the bedsheets retaining Maddie’s imprint is a poignant reminder of the impermanence of their union, leaving the reader with a lingering sense of longing.

Final Thoughts: This scene is a testament to the power of subtlety and the beauty of moments captured in time. It’s a narrative that doesn’t just tell a story; it invites the reader to live it. For those who appreciate a tale told with depth, warmth, and a touch of nostalgia, “You Are the Angel Glow That Lights a Star” is a must-read.