What is Required of a 'Writer' in the Age of AI

The quality of text written by AI has improved dramatically over the past few years.

Text that was called 'still unnatural' just a short while ago has now reached a level that is fully practical in many situations. In terms of writing technique alone, the gap between AI and humans will likely continue to narrow.

AI has no 'desire to write'

So, where does the value of a human writer remain?

I believe it lies in the impulse of 'I just have to write this'.

AI can generate text based on vast amounts of information. However, AI itself has no desire to 'write this.' This is because it does not possess the 'living' that lies at the root of that desire.

Things that were frustrating.

Experiences that saved you.

The loneliness of not being understood by anyone.

The moment your life changed.

A human's 'desire to write' is born from such real-life experiences.

That is precisely why readers are unconsciously drawn to it. In an age where AI is sufficient for information alone, the question of 'why did this person write this?' will become much more important than ever before.

Technique alone cannot move people's hearts

Having worked as an editor for many years, I have encountered a wide variety of manuscripts. There is something I feel strongly about among them.

Writing skill and the power to move people's hearts do not necessarily coincide.

Of course, readability and structural ability are important. Writing technique is a weapon, and anyone can reach a certain level if they polish it. Now that there is AI assistance, that hurdle will likely drop even further.

But strangely, there are pieces of writing that are technically rough, yet somehow shake the heart.

Conversely, there are pieces of writing that are neatly polished and have few flaws, yet do not move one's emotions at all.

What is that difference?

In the end, I think it is 'passion'.

"This person truly couldn't help but write this."

"This person is genuinely trying to convey something."

Writing that makes you feel this way, even if it is a bit clumsy, will remain in people's hearts.

What is needed in the AI era is to nurture the 'seed of wanting to write'

Therefore, what a writer in the AI era should do is surprisingly simple.

It is to nurture the seed of wanting to write within yourself.

And, to keep sharpening your weapons so that you can express what you want to write at the highest possible level.

I am not belittling technique. On the contrary, writing technique is necessary to properly deliver your passion.

But the order is the other way around.

First, there is the 'I absolutely must write this'.

Technique follows after that.

What remains for human 'writers'

Because of AI, the value of 'writing good prose' itself may relatively decrease from here on out.

That is precisely why what remains in the end is whether or not you possess 'something that only you can write'.

It can be rough around the edges.

It can be clumsy.

First, cherish the 'I can't help but write' that is within you. I believe that will be the most important foundation for writers in the coming era.