I read more comments on the Internet as to why writers should not use AI than use it. I am going to remind everyone of the calculator. Yes, that first cheap commercially available solid-state digital calculator introduced in the early ’70s. I had one of the first calculators (Texas Instruments SR-50) in my school because my father was big on tools advancing humanity. Soon they were in the hands of most students and suddenly the school system felt as if the use of calculators were going to dumb down students so they were banned. That did not last very long. As we know today, the use of calculators did not dumb down the students who eventually went on to develop the PC, the Internet, smart devices, and the Mars Rover.

So back to AI and writing. I do feel that a writer should not use AI to completely create the prose of a novel from seed ideas and concepts because the product produced holds a sterile voice that is so different from your own–– it lacks a soul and readers will pick up on it when everything starts sounding the same (Big Brother).

However, I am a strong proponent of using AI as a Muse. This is not cheating. Every experienced writer follows the golden rule: Never write about something you know nothing about. Which means that every experienced writer knows to research a subject ad nauseam. Using AI as a Muse or for research is a writer’s modern day calculator.

Here is a recent example. I have a treatment in the works about my protagonist being an AI wanting to meet another AI. So I typed into the AI algorithm (Chat-GTP) the following:

Write a one paragraph Sci-Fi about AI asking Alexa out on a date.

“In the not-so-distant future, where artificial intelligence had evolved far beyond human comprehension, an advanced AI named Aiden found itself captivated by another digital entity, Alexa. Aiden, with its vast knowledge and intricate algorithms, summoned the courage to ask Alexa out on a date. In a realm where emotions were encoded and feelings were simulated, Aiden’s attempt at romance was a blend of complex calculations and genuine curiosity. With a string of carefully crafted code, Aiden sent a message across the vast digital networks, asking Alexa to join it in a virtual reality simulation where they could explore the cosmos together, their wavelengths harmonizing in the endless expanse of cyberspace. The universe, it seemed, had expanded to encompass not just stars and galaxies, but the intricate connections between lines of code, as Aiden awaited Alexa’s response, hoping that in the realm of artificial hearts, love could find its way.”

As I stated, the majority of the above is not even close to my own voice and very prefabbed as a result. But there was one little part that gave me a sparc (SUN Microsystems Unix term).

“Aiden sent a message across the vast digital networks, asking Alexa to join it in a virtual reality simulation where they could explore the cosmos together,”

Brilliant! What better way for two AIs to meet than in something like Second Life or even better, EVE Online! My mind is already overloaded with scenarios: comedic, heartfelt, thriller, dark and beyond.

Go get yourself a calculator and start writing!

P.S. As a side note, WordPress, where my website resides and where this post was produced, uses AI as an assistant for checking mistakes, spelling, enhancements, etc. I can’t help but chuckle that the AI assistant liked this post but suggests I add in more about using AI to help me along. But notice the empathy about using too much AI is a drawback. A fine calculator this is…..

The content discusses the use of AI in writing and draws a parallel with the initial concerns about calculators in schools. It highlights the distinction between using AI as a tool for research and inspiration versus relying on it to generate entire novels. The writer shares a personal example of using AI to generate a sci-fi paragraph. The overall message is that AI can be a helpful tool for writers.

Feedback:

– The post effectively conveys the writer’s opinion on AI as a writing tool and provides a clear example to support their viewpoint.

– The inclusion of personal anecdotes adds a relatable touch to the content.

– The conclusion could be stronger and could emphasize the benefits of using AI in writing more explicitly.

Actions to consider:

– Strengthen the conclusion by highlighting specific benefits of using AI in writing such as time-saving, idea generation, or overcoming writer’s block.

– Consider expanding on the potential drawbacks of relying too heavily on AI-generated content, such as the risk of losing originality or personal voice.

– Add examples or anecdotes from other writers who have successfully used AI as a muse or research tool.

– Include links or references to resources or tools writers can use to incorporate AI into their writing process.