Debate Ignites Over AI's Role in Creative Writing: Innovation or Imitation?
March 12, 2025
Analysts warn that AI-generated creative writing may face backlash from the creative industry, as many believe it lacks genuine creativity and is built on unlawfully used copyrighted works.
The increasing prevalence of AI in writing and publishing is evident, with instances of AI-generated works winning awards, indicating a significant shift in the literary landscape.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently announced the development of a new AI model designed specifically for creative writing, claiming it excels at generating fiction.
The AI was prompted to write a metafictional story about grief, resulting in a narrative featuring a character named Mila who interacts with an AI chatbot after losing her partner.
Responses to the AI-generated story have varied; some readers found it beautiful and insightful, while others criticized it for lacking true creativity and being overly abstract.
Critics argue that AI-generated texts reveal more about the technology's limitations than about the future of literature, emphasizing that these models rely on mimicry rather than genuine creativity.
The UK Publishers Association has raised concerns regarding AI models being trained on copyrighted content, urging for fairness in the practice.
Critics emphasize that without human intent, AI-generated stories may lack substance and purpose, rendering them empty despite their structural quality.
Dan Conway from the Publishers Association highlighted the importance of human creativity and fair compensation for creators amidst the rise of AI in writing.
Altman shared a sample of this AI-generated story on social media, showcasing its ability to tackle complex themes, although the story received mixed reviews.
While AI may produce useful content for blogs and marketing, it is unlikely to replace creative writers such as novelists and poets due to its current limitations.
In response to these concerns, the UK creative sector has launched a campaign called Make It Fair, advocating for the protection of copyright laws against AI exploitation.
Summary based on 13 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Mar 12, 2025
ChatGPT firm reveals AI model that is ‘good at creative writing’
TechCrunch • Mar 11, 2025
OpenAI says it has trained an AI that's 'really good' at creative writing | TechCrunch
CNET • Mar 12, 2025
OpenAI's New Creative AI Model Writes Haunting Story About Life After Grief
Digital Trends • Mar 13, 2025
I was struck by OpenAI’s new model — for all the wrong reasons