Hickey describes a tool as something wielded, usually requiring "control, sensory feedback, intention, intimacy, continuous direction, expertise". Lack of that is automation.

I believe my own use of AI is closer to Hickey's definition of a tool. I'm very involved (for now). But, I'm also certain some use it as automation, flying on vibes, providing vague 30,000 foot prompts and deploying the result to production without understanding the code. Hence, gradient.

That's my interpretation of parent.