Discover how ancient signs and symbols can inspire fantasy RPG adventures, magical mysteries, and richer worlds as we explore the Elven Star, Magic Knot, Troll Cross, alchemical symbols, and more.
Yup. That's the scanner that Substack recently started using. I've found it's very inconsistent. I've had it say I use AI when I don't in some editions, and in other editions it says I didn't use AI when I did.
I was pretty frustrated for this newsletter since I spent 6 hours compiling it and the scanner showed it as mostly AI. But, then I'm like, "oh well". I'm not going to not publish it or try to re-write it because of some finicky scanner.
However, AI is often part of my process for editing, suggestions for improvement, music, and some images, so I'm not offended by folks who have a different viewpoint and prefer not to consume my content.
Thanks, FoggyPlanet! Glad you enjoyed the article. It's possible it was the music, but it didn't flag last week's edition as much, even though I included a song in that one, too.
Ever since this scanner was released, I've tried tweaking some sentence constructions and re-running it through the scanner, and half the time it detects more AI, so I gave up on trying to influence the AI Detection Gods! 😁 The thing is, even pre-AI, I've always loved to use my version of the em-dash and write with a high-energy marketing style, which have become red flags for artificial content.
Again, I'm not averse to using AI suggested improvements, and often do when it makes sense. But my methodology is using it as a tool to enhance me - not a "click the button" to do everything for me and replace me.
I mostly have an argumentative relationship with AI. (i.e. I argue with it over and over again!) Basically, in my experience, it's like an overly confident intern that thinks they know everything already. But these are my realms & I get final say. 👑
I recognize this can be a contentious stance in our divided world. Thanks for the question, though. It helped me introspect & verbalize my current view, which I've been wanting to do.
I have always loved symbols and secret societies…this book will be perfect for my DM library!! Loved this article and your DM suggestions! Taking notes. Thank u!
Nice! Glad you liked this, Robin. I'm like you - whenever I'm out discovering bargain books, I collect a bunch of these types for reference when writing/gaming. Then, because I have them in an enclosed bookshelf, I forget I have them. (But I love rediscovering them!) 😁
(btw: I've got your prize winnings boxed and just need to weigh, measure, get postage, and drop it off to UPS on Tuesday. 👑)
Agreed, Esirre! I have a few other tomes of symbols that pale in comparison to the breadth of this one. I particularly like its easy-to-scan layout and illustrations.
There are TONS of entries in this esoteric tome, including religious and pagan references that may or may not appeal to certain folks, but I think it's fascinating!
Such a great world building tool but also reminds us of the mystery and magic in our own.
Well said, Sir Eric! 💪
I liked this article, but when I scan it, it says mostly written by ai?
Yup. That's the scanner that Substack recently started using. I've found it's very inconsistent. I've had it say I use AI when I don't in some editions, and in other editions it says I didn't use AI when I did.
I was pretty frustrated for this newsletter since I spent 6 hours compiling it and the scanner showed it as mostly AI. But, then I'm like, "oh well". I'm not going to not publish it or try to re-write it because of some finicky scanner.
However, AI is often part of my process for editing, suggestions for improvement, music, and some images, so I'm not offended by folks who have a different viewpoint and prefer not to consume my content.
Thanks for clarifying. Yeah I was surprised to see the scan results. Maybe it was the music? Great article regardless :)
Thanks, FoggyPlanet! Glad you enjoyed the article. It's possible it was the music, but it didn't flag last week's edition as much, even though I included a song in that one, too.
Ever since this scanner was released, I've tried tweaking some sentence constructions and re-running it through the scanner, and half the time it detects more AI, so I gave up on trying to influence the AI Detection Gods! 😁 The thing is, even pre-AI, I've always loved to use my version of the em-dash and write with a high-energy marketing style, which have become red flags for artificial content.
Again, I'm not averse to using AI suggested improvements, and often do when it makes sense. But my methodology is using it as a tool to enhance me - not a "click the button" to do everything for me and replace me.
I mostly have an argumentative relationship with AI. (i.e. I argue with it over and over again!) Basically, in my experience, it's like an overly confident intern that thinks they know everything already. But these are my realms & I get final say. 👑
I recognize this can be a contentious stance in our divided world. Thanks for the question, though. It helped me introspect & verbalize my current view, which I've been wanting to do.
Arguing with an overconfident intern 😂. That has been my experience too.
I have always loved symbols and secret societies…this book will be perfect for my DM library!! Loved this article and your DM suggestions! Taking notes. Thank u!
Nice! Glad you liked this, Robin. I'm like you - whenever I'm out discovering bargain books, I collect a bunch of these types for reference when writing/gaming. Then, because I have them in an enclosed bookshelf, I forget I have them. (But I love rediscovering them!) 😁
(btw: I've got your prize winnings boxed and just need to weigh, measure, get postage, and drop it off to UPS on Tuesday. 👑)
Yes sometimes I need to look at my shelves again…and no worries about the package. It will be an awesome surprise when it arrives!
Found this book in hastings back in 2014ish. It ended up being a lot better than the other expensive hardback i have on the same subject.
Agreed, Esirre! I have a few other tomes of symbols that pale in comparison to the breadth of this one. I particularly like its easy-to-scan layout and illustrations.
this was a fun read , need a book like the one used, if not that one
Thanks Heavy C! Amazon has a couple versions. Here's a (non-affiliate) link to the same version I have but it's a quite a bit more expensive than the other one listed at the bottom of this newsletter edition. https://www.amazon.com/Element-Encyclopedia-Secret-Signs-Symbols/dp/B001NTTNK0/
I bought mine from the bargain book area of Barnes & Noble a year or two back. It's out of stock online, but you can check this (non-affiliate) link to see if your local B&N has it still: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/encyclopedia-of-secret-signs-and-symbols-nozedar/1142592292
That looks like a really interesting book; full of inspiration. I might have to try and find a copy!
There are TONS of entries in this esoteric tome, including religious and pagan references that may or may not appeal to certain folks, but I think it's fascinating!