Līf Partner, Inc
Selecting the right Compandroid
*This short piece follows up my story, “A.I. Love You”, which you can read HERE
Līf Partner, Inc.
When a *Compandroid was first suggested to me, over a year ago, I thought it was totally ridiculous and immediately dismissed the whole idea. An android? Seriously? An android would be about as much company as my computer, I said. But, I finally had to admit it — I am lonely, and after so many years, I don’t believe I will ever find a woman who will be interested in me. So, honestly, I have been browsing through the literature, watching marketing films, collecting brochures from different I.A. companies, studying all the possibilities. Līf Partner Inc, offers amazingly lifelike Compandroids in several different models, all of which can be entirely custom programmed to a person’s specifications.
They required a two-part application form. I had already written an honest description of myself, and then I studied the check list for the kind of Compandroid that might suit me best.
I spent weeks considering this list. There are so many possible combinations. So many choices! My head was on spin-cycle. I filled out the order form in my mind so many times, each time choosing different specifications, trying to imagine the perfect companion for myself.
Ultimately, though, I just decided to trust fate, to take my chances just as one would have to do when looking for a human partner. I sent in the interview questions and the order form yesterday, having checked only two essential parameters – the only things, after all, that really matter to me.
1. *I proudly coined the word Compandroid for this story. Then I discovered K.N. Parker had already invented it for his book “Autonomously Yours” in 2015! Rats! I’m using it here anyway, because, well, great minds often think alike.
2. Would a truly lifelike, fully functional Compandroid be a good life partner? Why? Why not? If YOU were single and decided to order a Compandroid, what are the five characteristics would you definitely check on this order form? So many characteristics are missing from the list. What would you have to add? Leave your ideas in the comments.
This whole idea is so thought-provoking, Sharron. I wonder how a compandroid relationship would be fulfilling to such a kind and sensitive man as your protagonist, as he knows that all of their interactions are predictable and programmed.
It's a little sad to see this fictional character give up on human companionship when there are, no doubt, many potential mates nearby in the same situation--Which I think might be the whole point of this excellent little story.
This is such a thought-provoking post, Sharron - and I love everything about it! I've read it several times in the last few minutes, and only on my second reading did I notice that your protagonist refers to 'the order form'! 😆
And heck, of course I had a go at picking five attributes for my own Compandroid. Turns out I don't need one, because I am very fortunate to have already been matched with male, tall, thoughtful, domestic/home, artistic. ♥️