The Liebman Institute for Science Innovation (LISI) at McHenry County College (MCC) invites the community to an evening where romance meets algorithms. “Roses Are Red, Violets Are Probable,” a poet-guided, AI-assisted exploration of love poetry, will take place Friday, February 13 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. in the Scott Room (B178) at McHenry County College, 8900 US Hwy. 14 in Crystal Lake.
This playful, science-curious program welcomes couples, friends, and solo attendees alike to explore what happens when poetry meets probability. Guided by renowned local poet Dr. Darius Jackson, a member of FourPoets OneMic, and MCC AI and IT security expert Bonnie Johnson (AAISM), the evening begins with famously awkward love poems entered into artificial intelligence (AI). Attendees will watch as the poems are remixed, rephrased, and confidently delivered back—often with surprising and humorous results. From there, the program turns to genuinely great love poems, examining what makes them resonate emotionally and what changes when an algorithm attempts to predict beauty, tenderness, or spark.
Along the way, participants will engage in discussion about the science behind artificial intelligence, including how algorithms generate novelty, the difference between originality and probability-driven surprise, and why machines can sound so confident about feelings they don’t actually have.
With drinks and hors d’oeuvres in hand, attendees will use AI-generated first drafts as inspiration to create their own poems. No prior writing experience is required, and sharing is entirely optional. Each participant will leave with a printed keepsake of their poem.
The event is open to ages 21 and older. Cost to attend is $26 per person, and advanced registration is required.
The program is presented by the Liebman Institute for Science Innovation (LISI), which creates engaging experiences that immerse the community in cutting-edge science topics.
