The Catharsis of Writing
"The Little Book of Chats"

AI research began in the 1950s, when pioneers like Alan Turing and John McCarthy laid the groundwork for machine intelligence. Since then, AI has experienced cycles of optimism ("Summers") and disillusionment ("Winters"). Early breakthroughs in symbolic reasoning fed lofty expectations, but limitations in computing power and handling real-world ambiguity led to setbacks.

The current AI "Summer," beginning in the 2010s, has transformed the landscape. Advancements in machine learning, natural language processing, and neural networks, paired with vast computational power and data, have driven the rise of generative AI tools like ChatGPT. This shift represents a renaissance in AI, enabling autonomous systems and powerful generative models that redefine how we interact with technology.

As someone with a strong Learner strength, writing The Little Book of Chats was far more than a project—it was a journey of discovery. My natural curiosity drove me to dive deep into generative AI, translating my fascination into actionable insights. At a time of personal transition, writing the book gave me purpose and clarity, turning a passion for learning into a constructive endeavour.

While I had co-authored a textbook in 2005, self-publishing The Little Book of Chats presented new challenges. Thankfully, with guidance from Jaqui Lane at The Book Adviser, I navigated writing, editing, and publishing on Amazon in December 2023.

This book wasn’t just about sharing knowledge—it was about processing change. Researching, synthesising, and articulating complex ideas allowed me to solidify my understanding while contributing to the broader conversation around AI. The catharsis lay in learning itself—each refined idea brought a sense of accomplishment and joy.

For me, the act of writing reaffirmed my identity as a lifelong learner. It was a reminder of the power of curiosity and the fulfilment that comes from transforming challenges into opportunities for growth.