Writers and A.I. (The NaNoWrimo Stance)

Talia
Sep 9, 2024
2 min read

After spending the week almost completely disconnected from technology (which happens about once in a blue moon), I re-emerged only to find that a new controversy has hit the writing community. This time, however, the controversy surrounds the non-profit writing organisation NaNoWriMo, who have recently come out with a new statement about the use of A.I. Whilst the original statement has been removed (and been heavily edited), the sentiment remains. In their original statement they said:

'To categorically condemn AI would be to ignore classist and ableist issues surrounding the use of technology, and that questions around the use of AI tie to questions around privilege.'[1]

I don't think there are enough words to express the disgust I feel at this statement. It is my personal belief that anyone who believes in creativity should dismiss A.I. (as far as creating art/ stories/ music goes). That is not to say that A.I. in itself should be completely dismissed, and could be used as a tool to help those with the everyday challenges that remain difficult; not only difficult, but those tasks that occupy us, and take away time that could be used to write or be creative. This statement also strikes me as selfish, and in my opinion was formed out of the own self-interest of the company.

After reading their original statement, I came to find out that one of their main sponsors is an AI writing aid (which is prominently displayed on their sponsors section of their website), which provides them with a motive to withhold any negative expressions about it. It appears to be a statement that has no sympathy or care for those who's jobs and passions have been effected by A.I. and it's increasing presence in the creative sector; instead, it seems to have been commercially motivated, and as a non-profit, that is deplorable.

They have recently come out saying that they 'have made mistakes in [their] initial expression of this position'[2]. A mistake would be an understatement. I cannot properly express my anger on the subject. As a long time NaNoWriMo fan, I am appalled. Safe to say, I have since deleted my account. It is such a shame that they have taken this stance. I was so motivated by the premise of NaNoWriMo, and it is disappointing to say the least that this has happened.

Whilst this post has been a bit all over the place, I wanted to end it with an old tweet that perfectly sums up my opinion on the use of AI:

'I want AI to do my laundry and dishes so that I can do art and writing, not for AI to do my art and writing so that I can do my laundry and dishes.' [3]

Thank you for reading this. It is not the best, but it is human.

All the best,

Talia