In a thought-provoking commentary, author Karen Stabiner explores the impact of artificial intelligence on writing styles and literary standards. Having experienced the rise of AI-generated text, Stabiner reflects on how her own punctuation choices, particularly the use of em dashes and semicolons, have come under scrutiny.
Stabiner reveals her unease with the increasing prevalence of AI in writing, noting that it has begun to influence how people perceive authentic literary voices. She recalls her decade-long teaching career at Columbia Journalism School, where she was surprised to learn that a tenured professor had banned the use of semicolons, deeming them a sign of indecision. This revelation sparked her introspection regarding her own writing style and whether it might be perceived as outdated or overly dependent on certain punctuation.
As Stabiner completed her latest work, she found herself grappling with doubts about her signature use of em dashes. With 40 years of writing experience, she is now questioning whether this distinctive style invites suspicion of AI involvement. In her recent book, she has included numerous em dashes, prompting her to consider alternatives such as periods or commas, which could alter the rhythm and clarity of her writing.
Stabiner humorously contemplates the idea of adding a disclaimer to her book, stating: “No AI programs were used in the creation of this book.” Such a statement, she fears, could evoke skepticism rather than reassurance, potentially leading readers to assume she had collaborated with a machine. She suggests the need for a certification system that would clearly distinguish human-authored texts from those generated by AI, addressing the growing concern over authenticity in literature.
While acknowledging the utility of AI tools for various tasks, Stabiner emphasizes the importance of preserving the unique human voice in writing. She expresses concern that the rise of AI-driven content could dilute the richness of literary expression, warning against settling for bland, affectless language.
Stabiner recalls her early experiences working with a magazine editor who encouraged her to find the right words, emphasizing the nuanced nature of human expression. This mentorship shaped her understanding of the writing process, ultimately leading her to embrace her idiosyncratic style that includes frequent use of em dashes and semicolons.
Reflecting on this journey, Stabiner finds solace in the works of her favorite authors, who also employ unconventional punctuation. She acknowledges the possibility of overusing certain marks but deliberately retains them as part of her authentic voice.
In a broader context, Stabiner advocates for valuing human creativity as a vital resource. She argues that writing should not only be functional but also rich in style and emotion, characteristics that AI has yet to master.
Ultimately, Stabiner’s insightful commentary serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a distinct human voice in writing, even as technology continues to evolve. As she continues to navigate the complexities of literary expression in an AI-influenced world, her reflections highlight the enduring value of personal style and authenticity in storytelling.
