Mimetic Poet

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel AI-powered device inspired by magnetic poetry that encourages creative writing and reflection through tactile interaction and strategic prompt sequencing, fostering deeper engagement with AI-generated poetry.

Contribution

The paper presents a new device combining physical word placement with AI to enhance creative ideation and reflection, exploring interaction strategies and assessing user engagement.

Findings

Tactile interaction increased user engagement compared to screen-based interfaces.

Limiting interactions to poetic text fostered deeper reflection and creativity.

Focus group indicated positive reception and perceived creative benefits.

Abstract

This paper presents the design and initial assessment of a novel device that uses generative AI to facilitate creative ideation, inspiration, and reflective thought. Inspired by magnetic poetry, which was originally designed to help overcome writer's block, the device allows participants to compose short poetic texts from a limited vocabulary by physically placing words on the device's surface. Upon composing the text, the system employs a large language model (LLM) to generate a response, displayed on an e-ink screen. We explored various strategies for internally sequencing prompts to foster creative thinking, including analogy, allegorical interpretations, and ideation. We installed the device in our research laboratory for two weeks and held a focus group at the conclusion to evaluate the design. The design choice to limit interactions with the LLM to poetic text, coupled with the tactile experience of assembling the poem, fostered a deeper and more enjoyable engagement with the LLM compared to traditional chatbot or screen-based interactions. This approach gives users the opportunity to reflect on the AI-generated responses in a manner conducive to creative thought.