Store-Brand Sonnet

Store-Brand Sonnet
by Bryon Slack

AI can say that it is sad
in any way that’s
been said before,
but it can’t tell you
why a sob, a cough,
or a sneeze all feel
close to the same.

AI can write a piece
about a sunset
written in the shades
of your favorite author,
but has no reference
for the heat under the skin
when a tan turns to a burn.

AI can form a hundred sonnets
on the qualities
of standing in the cold,
but wouldn’t think
to equate a sharp inhale
with smelling acrid smoke.

Despite the thunderclap
rumbling in every
forum I frequent
that the artificial
is indiscernible,
I say:

It’s not that hard
to notice
when you’re chewing
on off-brand Twinkies.