“The use of AI in creative writing has both pros and cons. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages associated with the application of AI in this field:”
The above is a direct quote from ChatGPT, when I asked for, you guessed it, the pros and cons of using AI in creative writing—straight from the horse’s mouth, so to speak. I used its response in writing this blog, followed by comments according to my experience with AI as a writer.
Pros:
Enhanced Creativity
AI can generate novel and unexpected ideas, helping writers break through creative blocks and explore new possibilities. It can offer fresh perspectives and inspire unique storylines, characters, and themes.
I’ll admit I’m not that experienced with AI, but I haven’t seen that much new and unexpected from any of my questions thus far, though I have used AI only for nonfiction.
Increased Efficiency
AI can automate certain tasks, such as proofreading, grammar checks, and fact verification, reducing the time and effort required for editing and revising written work. This allows writers to focus more on the creative aspects of their craft.
I have used ProWriting Aid, which I have found very helpful, though in no way would I depend on it alone. It makes grammatical errors and misinterpretations of words and names, but is better than another program I previously used.
Language Enhancement
AI language models, like the one you’re interacting with now, can assist writers in finding the right words, improving sentence structures, and providing suggestions for more engaging storytelling. It can serve as a helpful writing companion, offering real-time feedback and guidance.
Again, helpful, but not to be entirely depended upon. Note the word “guidance.”
Idea Generation and Inspiration
AI-powered tools can generate writing prompts, brainstorm ideas, and even assist in plot development. These tools can act as a catalyst for inspiration, helping writers overcome writer’s block and fueling creativity.
This area is where I’ve found the most assistance from AI—throwing AI, in this case ChatGPT, an idea for getting something down on that blank page. Like this post, for example. The more detailed my question, the better answer I get. I have always found that first rough draft to be the most difficult part of nonfiction. Here’s my thoughts—how do I get them arranged on the page and what language do I use?
Cons:
Lack of Originality
AI-generated content runs the risk of lacking the unique voice, style, and personal touch that human authors bring to their work. There is a concern that AI might produce writing that is formulaic or lacks the depth and emotional resonance of human-created content.
Absolutely. Use it as a draft for ideas only. Edit, edit, edit. In your own words.
Ethical Concerns and Plagiarism
AI systems can unintentionally or deliberately produce content that infringes on copyright or plagiarizes existing works. Maintaining ethical standards and ensuring proper attribution can be a challenge when using AI in creative writing.
Authors Guild, which I belong to, is presently lobbying for laws, regulations, and policies that will protect the future of literature and journalism in order to establish sensible policies and regulations governing the development and use of generative AI.
Emotional and Contextual Understanding
AI models may struggle to grasp the nuances of human emotions, cultural context, and subtleties of storytelling. Writing that requires deep emotional connections or relies on cultural or historical knowledge may be difficult for AI systems to replicate authentically.
No one should ever depend on AI alone. Nuff said?
Dependency and Skills Erosion
Over-reliance on AI tools for creative writing could lead to a decline in human writing skills and critical thinking. Relying solely on AI-generated content may diminish the ability to craft original and meaningful stories.
A major concern. Humanity tends to be rather lazy when it comes to media. Look at the most popular TV shows. News programs. How easy it was for President Bush to manipulate us into the Iraq War. Need I mention the Machiavellian maneuvering of that other President?
Bias and Stereotypes
AI models can inadvertently perpetuate biases present in training data. If the training data is biased or unrepresentative, the AI-generated content may reflect those biases, reinforcing stereotypes or discriminatory narratives.
Who is running these programs? How many are there, and how many will there be in the future? Will they all disappear except two or three or even one similar to Amazon making nearly all decisions about what gets written and when?
AI is still evolving, and these pros and cons may change over time as technology advances and new approaches are developed. Striking a balance between using AI as a creative tool and preserving human ingenuity and individuality remains an ongoing challenge.
What do you think? Have you used AI yet? In what way? I’d love to hear about it.
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