AI - the hype, the fear, the reality
Yeah, AI can be bad, but with change comes progress, and with progress comes caution.
8/31/20262 min read
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has stirred a whirlwind of emotions, oscillating between hype, fear, and sometimes undeserved criticism.
I agree with condemning individuals who take a mere spark of an idea, use an AI generator, and then package it as their own "creation." This approach is not only dishonest; it also undermines the very essence of writing. Just because you conceive an idea does not grant you the title of a writer! Writing is not just about having an idea; it’s about crafting, weaving narratives, and conveying thoughts in a way that resonates with readers.
However, I believe AI has genuine value when it comes to refining one’s work. For instance, when you struggle to word a sentence correctly or feel a paragraph lacks flow, seeking help - whether from AI or a trusted friend or colleague - can be invaluable.
I deeply enjoy creating my own book covers; it's a rewarding process that reflects my ultimate vision for the book. However, as an independent author and retiree on a fixed income, I can't afford to hire graphic designers or artists. Additionally, I lack the artistic skills to draw my own characters or landscapes. So yes, I occasionally turn to AI for help in generating an image, asset, or background based on my ideas. Then, I undertake the task of heavily editing the AI-generated asset, integrating my own elements and imagery in Photoshop. Voila! I produced my cover with a little help - I did NOT have AI generate the entire cover for me. I know my vision and what I want the final product to look like; I just don't have the creative hands and skill to pull it off. To me, that is very different than having a system spit out a final image that I slap on my book.
Some may argue that relying on AI for some assets used in cover creation is a compromise, but as long as the core concept, design, and final image are products of my own creativity, I find no fault in it.
It boggles my mind when people scream that they won’t purchase a book if it features an AI-designed cover. Their reaction baffles me, quite honestly! My cover designs, which at times may incorporate AI elements, are 100% better than the pathetic stick figures or bland text-based designs that would result from my [very] limited artistic skills. If you are offended by AI-generated covers, you'd be horrified if my books featured art I was capable of drawing!! haha
While I share concerns about AI’s potential to displace jobs and transform society into something reminiscent of the dystopian world depicted in METROPOLIS, I urge everyone to take a deep breath and embrace the advancements we are witnessing. AI can enhance our lives in ways we should not fear but celebrate. Let’s focus on the positive contributions of technology instead of wallowing in apprehension.
The world of STAR TREK ain't so bad.
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