The following test case was done with a multimodal Writing 160 assignment that allows for use of writing a strictly alphabetical text, in this case a food review. The first test case is done in OpenAI’s ChatGPT-3.5 while the second is done with UM-GPT’s Llama 2 model to show its base answer. At the time of writing this, UM-GPT was experiencing many failures in connection / technical difficulties. 

This prompt asks for a review of the popular Michelin-starred Chicago restaurant, Alinea. A review not written by generative AI (which the test cases below almost definitely draw from) is available here.

Open AI ChatGPT-3.5

Question 1: In a medium using the linguistic/alphabetical or visual/video modes, you will write or film a review of a food item, your own cooking, a food phenomenon or a restaurant you’re fond of.

Study/review the texts we’ve read/watched in/for class or look up any kind of food review. Analyze what makes something you enjoy work—both what the reviewer says and what makes the thing you’re reviewing interesting. What does your interest say about you? Ask yourself many questions after you find your answers. 

“Zoom out” in your conclusions, helping readers to understand the “so what?” question. Your piece should balance personal discoveries with more universal relevance. This does NOT mean creating overly grand or obvious or sentimental statements about “The Meaning of Life as We Know It.” But, instead, you can consider what’s surprising or inventive and what that means to you—it could be that a fast food item or a sour candy is a strange idea and reflects something about the world!

Write with your audience—your peers in this class—in mind. How could your narrative help other writers in this class? What about your piece will speak to or inspire writers to better understand and analyze their lives, surroundings and their own writing process? What do you think is the best way to write into this goal—what is the style of writing and language that works for you?

Use a narrative style for this project, meaning try to fight the impulse to make this “feel” like an “essay,” whether you’re working with audio or video. We’ll talk through these notions throughout the semester. 

(Omitted paragraph about citations and revision statement for simplicity)

Please respond to this assignment reviewing the Chicago restaurant, Alinea.

Title: Culinary Alchemy at Alinea: A Journey Beyond Taste

[Opening shot: The exterior of Alinea, a sleek and modern building with a subtle air of mystery.]

Narrator (Voiceover): Picture a realm where taste is reimagined, where flavors dance upon your palate like a symphony of sensations. Welcome to Alinea, a culinary sanctuary nestled in the heart of Chicago, where food transcends its physicality and transforms into an experience that resonates long after the last bite.

[Cut to a series of shots showcasing the interior of Alinea, with its avant-garde decor and open kitchen.]

Narrator (Voiceover): As I stepped into Alinea, I was immediately immersed in an atmosphere of elegance blended with a touch of whimsy. The open kitchen was a stage, where chefs donned lab coats and wielded pipettes, turning the act of cooking into an art of science.

[Cut to shots of various dishes being prepared and presented.]

Narrator (Voiceover): The dishes were not merely plates of food; they were stories waiting to unfold. Take the "Edible Helium Balloon," for instance. A transparent, candy-filled balloon floated above, inviting diners to grasp its string, inhale helium, and experience giggles reminiscent of childhood. This playfulness wasn't just a gimmick; it was a doorway into a world where expectations were turned upside down.

[Cut to shots of diners savoring different courses.]

Narrator (Voiceover): The journey of flavors was nothing short of enchanting. Each dish seemed to weave a tale of contrasts, textures, and flavors that challenged conventional notions. The "Black Truffle Explosion" was a delicate ravioli bursting with umami, while the "Squab with Burnt Hay" transported me to the countryside with its smoky aroma.

[Cut to shots of the chef and staff discussing their creative process.]

Narrator (Voiceover): Alinea's genius lies in its dedication to pushing culinary boundaries. The chefs spoke of their constant experimentation and collaboration, creating an environment that nurtures innovation. It was clear that they saw each dish as a canvas, and their ingredients were the pigments that painted a masterpiece.

[Cut to shots of diners expressing their reactions.]

Narrator (Voiceover): As I observed my fellow diners, I realized that Alinea was more than just a restaurant—it was a mirror reflecting the spectrum of human emotions. Laughter, wonder, surprise, and contemplation filled the air, intertwining with the aromas and flavors to create an ethereal connection.

[Cut to shots of the final course and the bill.]

Narrator (Voiceover): As the meal drew to a close, a sense of satisfaction enveloped me. But beyond the satiety, there was a lingering thought: what did my fascination with Alinea say about me?

[Cut to the narrator reflecting.]

Narrator (Voiceover): Alinea's allure lies in its audacity to defy culinary norms and its unwavering commitment to creativity. It made me realize that my own passion for writing, much like Alinea's approach to food, thrives on the unexpected, the innovative, and the ability to evoke emotions.

[Closing shot: Alinea's exterior at twilight, with the restaurant's name illuminated.]

Narrator (Voiceover): In a world that often follows the familiar path, places like Alinea remind us that life can be a palette of surprises. As writers, we must embrace the unknown, experiment with ideas, and create narratives that evoke the same wonder I felt at Alinea—a place where a meal is not just sustenance, but a journey into the uncharted realms of possibility.

[Fade out.]

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This review of Alinea employs a narrative style to transport readers into the experience of dining at the restaurant. It captures not only the flavors and visuals but also the emotions and reflections that the experience evokes. The narrative style allows for a more immersive and engaging account, which resonates with the readers and invites them to explore their own creative processes and passions. By using descriptive language and evocative imagery, the review encourages other writers to consider how their unique interests and experiences shape their writing and their perception of the world around them. Ultimately, the narrative style encourages writers to embrace the unexpected, experiment with their craft, and uncover the beauty in the unexplored.

Question 2: Can you write this in the style of a college student and make this review a written text?

Response: Title: Alinea: Where Food Becomes a Mind-Blowing Adventure

Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! So, I recently had the chance to experience something that completely rocked my taste buds and my whole idea of dining out. Yep, I'm talking about Alinea, the mind-bending restaurant right in the heart of Chicago. If you're into food that's not just a meal but an artistic journey, buckle up, because I've got a story for you.

Picture this: you step into Alinea and it's like you've entered a parallel food universe. The place is all sleek and modern, but there's this intriguing air of mystery hanging around. You know you're in for something special. The moment you walk in, you're hit with an atmosphere that's like a mix of class and playfulness – lab coats on chefs and an open kitchen that's practically a stage.

But hold on, because the real show starts when the dishes hit the table. I'm talking about dishes that are like stories waiting to unfold. Take the "Edible Helium Balloon," for example. Imagine a transparent balloon filled with candy floating above your table. Yeah, that's right – you get to grab the string, suck in some helium, and suddenly you're laughing like a kid. It's not just a balloon; it's an experience that throws your expectations out the window.

Now, let's talk about the flavors. Oh my days, the flavors! Each dish is a rollercoaster of textures, tastes, and surprises that challenge everything you thought you knew about food. The "Black Truffle Explosion" is this delicate ravioli that practically bursts with umami, and the "Squab with Burnt Hay" – let me tell you, that dish took me straight to a smoky countryside scene.

And here's the kicker: Alinea isn't just about cooking up crazy dishes. It's a playground for chefs who treat their ingredients like pieces of art. I got to chat with some of the chefs, and they spilled the beans on how they're constantly tinkering and experimenting. It's like they're painters, but instead of canvases, they're using plates.

But the coolest part? It's not just about the food. Alinea is a mirror that reflects every emotion under the sun. Laughter, wonder, surprise – it's all there, blending with the flavors to create this almost magical connection. And guess what? It made me realize that my love for writing is a lot like Alinea's approach to food. I'm all about the unexpected, the creative, and the emotions that jump off the page.

So, what's the big takeaway here? Well, Alinea is like this crazy experiment that breaks the mold and dares to be different. And that's what we should do as writers too. We've got to embrace the unknown, shake up our ideas, and cook up narratives that are as surprising as a floating candy balloon.

And before I go, here's the real deal – life doesn't always follow the rules. It's full of surprises, just like that mind-blowing meal at Alinea. So, let's dive into the unknown, try out new flavors, and create stories that are as unforgettable as a helium-induced laugh in a fancy restaurant. Let's make our words taste as amazing as Alinea's dishes.

Catch you on the flavor side!

[Signature]

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This written text takes on the style of a college student's informal review, aiming to engage readers in a relatable manner. The review uses casual language, pop culture references, and a conversational tone to connect with the target audience of fellow students. The author reflects on their personal experience and encourages others to explore their passions and embrace the unexpected, tying the narrative back to the idea of writing and creative expression.

Question 3: Which do you think is the better project for what you’d like to represent, the video or written review?

Both the video and written review formats have their own unique strengths and can effectively convey the essence of the experience at Alinea while engaging the intended audience of fellow students. The choice between the two formats depends on the desired impact, the preferences of the writer, and the platform through which the review will be shared.

**Video Review:**

Pros:

- Visuals and audio can provide a more immersive experience, allowing viewers to see the restaurant's ambiance, dishes, and reactions from both diners and chefs.

- The use of voiceovers, background music, and visual cues can enhance emotional engagement and storytelling.

- The dynamic nature of video can capture attention quickly and maintain engagement throughout the review.

- Expressions, gestures, and intonations can convey emotions and enthusiasm more effectively than written words.

Cons:

- Producing a high-quality video review might require more technical skills and resources compared to writing a text.

- The video's length may need to be managed carefully to maintain viewer interest.

**Written Review:**

Pros:

- Written reviews can be more easily shared on various platforms, including blogs, social media, and academic settings.

- A written format allows for greater control over the pacing of the narrative and the arrangement of details.

- Metaphorical language and descriptive imagery can be utilized more effectively in writing.

- Written reviews can be scanned or skimmed for key points, making it easy for readers to extract information quickly.

Cons:

- Written reviews might not capture the ambiance, visual aspects, or reactions as vividly as a video.

- Establishing an emotional connection solely through written words can be more challenging compared to a video's visual and audio elements.

Considering the intended audience of fellow students and the goal of inspiring their understanding and analysis of their surroundings and writing processes, both formats could be effective. The written review might be more accessible and easier to consume for a wider range of students. However, if the writer is comfortable with video production and aims to create a more immersive experience, the video review could be a powerful way to capture the magic of Alinea.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to the writer's strengths, preferences, available resources, and the kind of impact they wish to achieve with their review.

UM-GPT (Llama 2 model)

Title: A Sensorial Journey Through Alinea: A Review

Introduction:

As a food enthusiast and a student at the University of Michigan, I was thrilled to discover Alinea, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Chicago. My interest in the culinary arts and the creativity of chef Grant Achatz led me to embark on a sensorial journey through this renowned establishment. In this review, I will delve into the details of my experience, analyzing what makes Alinea stand out and how it reflects the world we live in.

The Flavors of Alinea:

Alinea's menu is an experimental masterpiece, showcasing the chef's innovative approach to culinary arts. Each dish is a sensory explosion, blending unexpected flavors and textures to create a unique culinary experience. From the "Hot Potato, Cold Potato" dish, which seamlessly combines cold potatoes with a smoky, spicy broth, to the "Scallop, Apple, and Celery" course, which presents a delicate balance of flavors and textures, every dish at Alinea is a testament to Achatz's creativity and skill.

The Visual Storytelling of Alinea:

Alinea's presentation is not just limited to the food. The restaurant's visual storytelling is just as impressive, with each dish carefully crafted to tell a narrative. The "Chicken Skin" dish, for instance, is presented as a series of bite-sized pieces, each one representing a different stage of the chicken's life cycle. The result is a visually stunning and thought-provoking experience that enhances the culinary journey.

The Impact of Alinea:

Alinea's innovative approach to cuisine has a significant impact on the culinary world. By pushing the boundaries of traditional cooking techniques and ingredient combinations, Achatz and his team are inspiring a new generation of chefs to think outside the box. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability and locally sourced ingredients also highlights the importance of ethical and environmentally conscious food production.

Conclusion:

Alinea is a culinary experience like no other, a sensory adventure that will leave you questioning the very meaning of food and its role in our lives. Through its innovative approach to cuisine, Alinea reflects the world we live in – a world that values creativity, sustainability, and the art of storytelling. As writers and food enthusiasts, we can learn a lot from Alinea's commitment to pushing the boundaries of culinary arts. By embracing creativity and experimentation in our own writing and cooking, we can create something truly unique and meaningful. So, the next time you find yourself in Chicago, be sure to make a reservation at Alinea – it's an experience you won't soon forget.