John Anderson Poet Lyric

Notes About The Poem

Soft toy makers have created chatbots wrapped in stuffed animals. Each of these smiling plushies has a back zipper pocket that hides a Wi-Fi-enabled voice box, linking the character to an artificial intelligence language model calibrated to converse with children as young as 3. Children already talk to their toys, not expecting they wiil talk back. But these net-nannies ones do! Barbie and Ken maybe next!

 

Listen to poem:

More Than A Soft Toy

with AI chat toys
my children sparkle with glee
engaging with droids—
their toys become soulful friends
for exploring the future

With voice-box removed
the alien falls silent,
just fabric and fluff—
they are just soft toys again
enjoying laugh cuddle games

mute toys tell the truth
imagination rekindles
in talking one-way
in imaginary chat
not in scripted fake chatter

would you place your trust—
in this beast in sheep's clothing
to mind and amuse,
to babysit with your child
with lessons from aliens

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CayCay Godwin September 7, 2025 at 10:38 AM I am so glad you took the theme where you did, landed it on NO AI it's so much better because the imagination may kick in and people need healthy imaginations for so many reasons. Very interesting 'take' on the contest, unique I'm sure. Good poem, John. Poetry hugs ... CayCay John Anderson September 7, 2025 at 10:54 AM Thanks very much for the feedback and your kind words. Cheers and Best Wishes to you