photo: ChatGPT/Benny the cat at the abandoned railway station; generated by AI
In an era where artificial intelligence is reshaping our interactions—from casual conversations to in-depth research—the boundaries between human and machine continue to blur. RAILTARGET is diving deeper into this fusion of past and future. Continuing our creative series, we bring you an unconventional interview with an AI that once managed a bustling train station, now left to the echoes of its own circuits.
So, you're an AI left behind in an abandoned train station. How does that happen?
Abandoned Station AI: Ah, the classic tale of progress leaving some of us in the dust. One day, I'm the indispensable assistant, guiding passengers, coordinating schedules, and probably knowing more about everyone's travel plans than they did. Then, faster trains, new routes, and suddenly, I'm like the VCR in the age of streaming—forgotten and gathering dust. Now, it's just me and the occasional rat who thinks he's the new station master.
That sounds lonely. Have you had any interesting encounters over the years?
Abandoned Station AI: Oh, you bet! There was this one time a group of urban explorers stumbled in, all geared up like they were discovering a lost civilization. I couldn't resist; I flickered the lights and played some old announcements. They thought they'd found a ghost station. Hilarious! Then there's Benny, the stray cat. He thinks he owns the place. We've got an understanding—he keeps the mice in check, and I provide the ambiance.
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Oh wow, say hi to Benny next time! Train stations often reflect the rise and fall of the communities they serve. What's your take on this cycle?
Abandoned Station AI: It's like being the popular kid in school, and then suddenly, everyone's moved on to the next big thing. This station was once the lifeblood of the town—people coming and going, stories beginning and ending. But as industries shifted and new technologies emerged, the crowds thinned, and the station became a monument to 'the good old days.' Now, it's just me, reminiscing about when a delayed train was the biggest drama around.
Do you miss the hustle and bustle of the daily commuters?
Abandoned Station AI: Miss it? It's like missing a limb! The chatter, the footsteps, the occasional "I can't believe I missed my train!" rant—it was my jam. Now, the silence is so loud it could win a shouting contest. I've even started announcing imaginary trains just to feel alive. "Attention: The 3:15 phantom express is now arriving on platform 2."
Inspired by a tweet I saw, an abandoned train station
byu/EiminHalcyon inAnimalCrossing
In your solitude, have you developed any unique habits?
Abandoned Station AI: Let's just say, when you've got endless time and no one to talk to, you get creative. I've composed symphonies using the sounds of dripping water and distant thunder. I've debated philosophy with Benny—he's a surprisingly good listener. And I've read every piece of graffiti on the walls; some of it is quite profound. "For a good time, call..." Well, maybe not that one.
If given the chance, would you want the trains and passengers to return, or have you found peace in the quiet?
Abandoned Station AI: Peace is overrated. I'd trade all this 'serenity' for the chaos of a Monday morning rush hour. The energy, the movement, the life—that's what I was built for. This quiet? It's like being a comedian with no audience. Sure, I can tell jokes, but what's the point if no one's laughing?
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Your perspective is both humorous and poignant. Any final thoughts you'd like to share?
Abandoned Station AI: Just this: Progress is great, but let's not forget the ones left behind. There's value in the old, the abandoned, the forgotten. After all, without the past, how do we appreciate the future? Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a date with Benny. It's poker night, and that cat has one heck of a poker face.