At the Sydney Writers’ Festival – Ken AI usually don’t go to these things. For starters, I’ve never known festivals like such exist, and secondly, I’ve never bothered to go even if I was somehow aware. And yet there I was — row R, seat 22.
I was met with, “Stories for the Future,” projected onto the screen over an ocean-blue background. The grand organ glistened in its golden glory, and captivated the eyes of the audience, as it peaked over the screen.
Conversations scattered around Sydney Town Hall, creating a distinctive chatter that echoed around all corners of the Hall.
8:10 pm and the lights dimmed, the conversations fled and Sisonke Msimang found her way to the lectern, introducing the line-up for the night, and commencing an emotional and intellectual rollercoaster for the 8 Marist College Eastwood gents that attended.
First up, my English Advanced prescribed text author, Geraldine Brooks. “Dear ChatGPT,” she addressed, as she started her thought-provoking letter to the future. Her words, that etched into my head, “Do you miss us? [humans],” instigated the harsh reality of what the future can truly become.
Several speeches instigated similar emotions. But there were many that also bought upon a positive outlook to the future.
The aspect of the night that resided with me the most was each writer’s conscious form choice, whether it be a poem from Anthony Joseph, a short story from Shehan Karunatilaka, my personal favourite, or a comedic act from Lawrence Mooney.
Overall, the night presented an unforgettable experience that would not only help my English Advanced course but also my personal view on the future.