Lincoln the rapper?

[Rob Wick]

I've been messing around instead of writing and yesterday, I decided to see just what the fuss is about regarding ChatGPT. I asked it to "Write a story featuring Abraham Lincoln as a rapper." This is what it came up with:

In the heart of 19th-century America, where the crackling energy of change and progress surged through the nation, there was an unexpected and unparalleled talent that emerged. Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was known for his towering stature, his eloquent speeches, and his remarkable leadership during a time of great upheaval. However, there was one aspect of Lincoln's life that remained a well-kept secret – he was a rapper.

It all began on a stormy evening in the White House. Lincoln, burdened by the weight of the Civil War and the destiny of a divided nation, sought solace in a unique form of self-expression. Alone in his study, surrounded by the shadows of history, he started jotting down verses that rhymed, wordplay that struck a chord, and rhythms that echoed his emotions.

One evening, when the moon shone bright through his window, he decided to share his newfound passion with a trusted friend and fellow wordsmith, Frederick Douglass. Douglass, the famed abolitionist, had a penchant for poetry and an appreciation for Lincoln's wit.

"Fred, I've got something to show you," Lincoln said with a glint in his eye.

Douglass raised an eyebrow, not sure what to expect from the President. Lincoln walked to his desk, shuffled through some papers, and then, with a slight hesitation, he cleared his throat and began to rap:

"I'm Abraham Lincoln, President's my name,
I fight for freedom, and I won't be tamed.
From Illinois to D.C., I've come to lead,
A nation torn apart, in slavery's greed."

Frederick Douglass was struck by Lincoln's poetic prowess. He had heard many speeches, but this was something entirely different. Lincoln's rhymes were not only eloquent but carried a message that resonated deeply with the times.

"Mr. President, you've got a gift," Douglass declared. "Your words could unite this nation even further, through a different medium."

Lincoln, who had found an unexpected release in his rap, agreed to Douglass's suggestion. They began to work on more verses together, crafting messages of unity and emancipation. They even decided to take their talents to the public, hosting secret rap battles within the White House, inviting influential figures of the day.

Word of the President's hidden talent began to spread throughout Washington, and soon, the rap battles in the White House became legendary. Lincoln was known for his tall stature, but his presence in the rap scene was towering in a different way. His verses resonated with people, and his message of equality and freedom was carried far and wide.

As the Civil War raged on, Lincoln's rap performances became a symbol of hope and determination. He would often end his rap sessions with a powerful verse:

"We're a nation divided, but we'll unite, that's the key,
With words as our weapons, and freedom for all to see.
I'm not just a President; I'm a rapper on the stage,
And together, we'll write a new chapter for this age."

Ultimately, the Civil War came to an end, and Lincoln's leadership played a pivotal role in the nation's healing. While his rap career was largely forgotten by history, the impact of his words and the unity they inspired would be felt for generations to come.

Abraham Lincoln, the rapper President, had shown that even in the darkest of times, music and the power of words could bridge the deepest divides and lead a nation toward a brighter future.

Hmmm. Maybe I should focus on this.....nah!

Best
Rob