Navigating the Challenges of AI in Creative Writing
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Chapter 1: The Dichotomy of Emotion and Technology
The rise of AI-generated voices raises questions about the future of creative writing. Are we now at a point where a mechanical voice is the only avenue for writers to monetize their work on platforms like Medium?
Humanity vs Technology (Image by Gerd Altmann on Pixabay)
Previously, I expressed my frustrations on this topic, but a recent poem by Thomas Plummer prompted me to revisit my thoughts. His verses struck a chord, transporting me to that cherished place we all yearn for—home. When we engage with a story, essay, or poem, the author’s voice, though silent, resonates within us, as we blend their narrative with our own experiences.
However, when we hit the Listen button, that poem loses its essence—replaced by a monotonous, soulless voice devoid of passion or emotional depth.
Why are some writers encouraging their peers and readers to embrace this? Others argue that listening takes less time than reading—does that really matter?
As a writer, my primary goal is for others to connect with my words. Who would genuinely want their crafted work to be transformed into a lifeless, mechanical rendition, stripped of the emotions and nuances that took hours to perfect?
Is this the new norm for writing? A flat, robotic delivery that silences the unique voice and tone of the writer?
Section 1.1: The Limitations of Text-to-Speech
Let’s take a closer look at Medium’s Help page regarding the text-to-speech feature. As a creator, I wish I could narrate my own work—the rhythm, flow, and emotional intent—but that option simply isn’t available. Furthermore, I long for the ability to disable the Listen button on my writings, yet that too is not an option.
The platform claims, “We believe that text-to-speech will help more people gain access to great writing on Medium.”
But what about those who truly need it, like the visually impaired? Professional narrators or the authors themselves convey tone and emotion, pausing naturally, and varying speed and pitch to engage listeners.
Computer-generated voices diminish the essence of great writing. The tantalizing offer from Medium is that writers might earn more during this experimental phase, as they will consider listening time in compensation.
How low has Medium fallen to promote this Listen function? Are we entering a dystopian era where technology and efficiency outweigh human emotion and individuality? Are we to believe that artificial intelligence can truly replicate human creativity?
This issue is already evident in the realm of digital art, where the passion and integrity of true artists seem to hold less value. Now, this platform cheapens our writing with robotic voices, far removed from the rich human experiences—our joys, sorrows, regrets, and aspirations—that only a human voice can convey.
Section 1.2: The Consequences of Current Policies
According to Medium’s terms and conditions:
“Unless otherwise agreed in writing, by submitting, posting, or displaying content on or through the Services, you grant Medium a nonexclusive, royalty-free, worldwide, fully paid, and sub-licensable license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, publicly perform and display your content and any name, username or likeness provided in connection with your content in all media formats and distribution methods now known or later developed on the Services.”
This means we are left with text-to-speech as a format, without any control over it.
Despite this, I choose to remain. I hold onto the hope that one day they will abandon this dreadful experiment or at least grant writers, especially poets, the ability to disable the Listen feature.
All I ask of you, dear reader, is to continue engaging with literature and not allow technology to extinguish the passion and effort of writers.
Chapter 2: A Tribute to Creative Expression
I couldn’t resist sharing a song from my youth by Frank Zappa and The Mothers of Invention, which encapsulates the essence of human creativity.
Thank you for joining me on this journey.