The Red QueenΒ offers advice to Alice, who finds herself running intensely, but not actually moving forward:Β βNow, here, you see,β says the Red Queen, βit takes all the running you can do, to keep in the same place.Β If you want to get somewhere else, you must run at least twice as fast as that!β
βΒ Lewis Carroll,Β Alice Through The Looking Glass (Goodreads image and quotation)
Life moves at a mad pace, even madder if you want to “keep up,” whatever that means. Can you relate to Alice? My blogging friend Linda Hoye refers to the glut of data we deal with daily as a “firehose” of information. Whether you are a writer or not, the times push you to adapt to innovation:
- Changing technologies
- New marketing methods
- Demands on our time
And authors have more questions: How does AI affect me? Do Facebook and Amazon ads really work? Should I invest in a publicist? How do algorithms on social media operate? What about podcasting? If you write a blog, should you switch from WordPress to Substack, apparently the latest big, new thing?
Many of us wonder how to stay relevant, how to keep up with our changing times. Some of you have tried cutting-edge solutions:
- Expanding your reach on YouTube.
- Switching from WordPress to Substack
- Integrating AI into your writing
Substack, a subscription newsletter similar to WordPress, seems to be the latest innovation for bloggers and other creators. But there is a caveat because apparently authors “rent” from that service. They do not directly own their content. According to an article on AudiencePlus, there is a gamble of building on rented land and explains, “Platform risk is the exposure of any individual or business to communication suppression when distribution is managed by a third-party service provider. These channels are ‘rented’ spaces, meaning a brandβs relationship with its audience is indirect and rented, rather than direct or owned.β Another voice, Fuzz Martin echoes this opinion.
Another Hot-Button Topic — AI, Artificial Intelligence
AI has been a feature of technology since the 1950s but has recently become controversial because of how it may impinge on human creativity and integrity. Like me, you’ve probably been using AI for a while now. Last week, I used my GPS to guide my car to a writers’ group in Ponte Vedra, Florida. I can use Siri or Alexa to get quick answers or smooth music. And AI app identifies birds and flowers.
I’ve been getting invitations on LinkedIn to use AI in my writing. (I didn’t bite.)
Did I say Hot Button?
Comedian Jerry Seinfeld sounded off during his Duke University commencement address in late May.
He has a bone to pick with Artificial Intelligence
βAI is the most embarrassing thing weβve invented during manβs timeline on earth,β said Seinfeld. βThis seems to be the justification for AI: βI couldnβt do it.β He went on to joke that ChatGPTβs slogan should be the opposite of Nikeβs: βYou just canβt do it.β
Seinfeldβs remarks probably resonated uncomfortably with a group of college students who witnessed the rise of ChatGPT during their studies, and the temptation to use it for homework. Seinfeld, though, puts the question in encouraging terms: youΒ canΒ do the heavy lifting of critical thinking, imagination, and connection. You donβt have to outsource those things to a computer.
An Opposing Viewpoint
Taylor Borden, an editor at LinkedIn proclaims the message:
AI usage is accelerating in the workplace, according to MicroSoft and other sources. She seems to view this trend as a good thing. You can read her article here.
My Own Experiment with AI
I asked Artificial Intelligence to generate an image for me: Show me an illustration of the Red Queen writing a blog post.This is what ensued:
First, I had to create an account with Bing MicroSoft Creations
This was not too hard to do after I figured out what the arrows actually do.
Still, the software people were not satisfied that I was really human, so they asked me to manipulate a series of images with fuzzy backgrounds. Now I know “To err is human,” but these people were still not satisfied until they put me through 4-5 more paces. Finally, I was IN! I could officially confirm, “show me an illustration of the Red Queen writing a blog post.”
After more than a half hour, Behold!
I like red. In fact, red is my favorite color, but, wow, this is intense.
Thanks, Pam Wight, who inspired me to be brave and try out AI via Bing Co-Pilot Design, as she illustrated with cartoon images on luggage titled “Baggage Magic” on her own blog post recently.
Credit: Analogy of Alice and the Red Queen adapted from April 2024 newsletter, FWA, Florida Writers Association, Vic DiGenti editor
How about you? Have you used AI or some other technology in your writing?
What is your take on recent developments in technology?
Are you a turtle or hare when it comes to adopting the new as shown on this image from the New York Times?
Good morning, Marian! It’s good to keep up with things, and I admire your persistence and sense of adventure.
I have not used AI at all. I’ve not been impressed with AI-generated art for the most part.
And as for writing–definitely not. Most publishers and my work will not accept AI-generated material.
That said, I do know people who have used AI for school papers, not to write them, but to help with editing or getting some ideas.
Thanks for the kind words. As for AI, one of the problems is the issue of boundaries. How can publishers detect whether material submitted is from an author who has has used AI strictly for brainstorming purposes, or for the entire manuscript? Best to veto the whole idea of AI. π
You’re welcome, Marian.
Yes, I wouldn’t use it!
It is hard sometimes to keep up with all the new technology. I think we need to pick our battles as they say. Learning to self publish was a huge learning curve on the technical side for me. I tried to create a cover using AI but was not happy with it and hired someone to create one for me, using a photo I supplied. Much better. So far, I’m not impressed with AI and agree with Mr Seinfeld. I don’t care for the picture it created for you, too much red and her face looks like its made of plastic. I’m sure AI has its purpose but not for us creatives. We can do the heavy lifting!
Hear, hear, Darlene!
π
Yes, I agree, self-publishing was a huge learning curve for me too, in spite of some expert help.
I also agree that the AI photo created for me is too garish–crass reds and artificial-looking surfaces.
Of course, we can do the heavy lifting, Darlene! π
π
My beef currently with AI is how when I go on Facebook, it tries to nudge me over saying “Ask Meta AI anything.” No thank you…. BUT, I’m very impressed with your reaching out to try your hand!
I ignore the invitation “Ask Meta AI anything.”
As for the experiment, I liked the novelty of trying something new. Pam, made it seem easy, so I took the chance, but I doubt you’ll see much AI-generated material from me in the future. Thanks, Melodie! π
Wow, that image was intense, Marian! As for AI, Iβve only used the search capacity. I havenβt created anything with it. While I can understand the changing technologies and the capabilities technology offers, in some areas, I frown upon it. As an editor, I frown upon the use of AI to βenhanceβ a piece of writing, because many book publishers have clauses in contracts that AI is not to be used to augment a piece of writing. (I have a contract with such a clause.) A sudden shift in voice in a manuscript is a sign that something artificial has been added.
Did you hear me say “Amen” to all you have stated here, L. Marie?
I’m not surprised that book publishers prohibit the use of AI in their contracts with authors. Thanks for the tip about a sudden shift in voice as being one telltale sign of AI “enhancement.” π
Good for you, Marian, youβre a brave soul to wade in there and try it! I havenβt and I doubt I will! If so, I will definitely be the turtle! But I noticed the turtle won the race, Ha!
Yes, turtles often win the race, a great reminder, Elfrieda. Ha Ha! π
You know that AI is considered “plagiarism software” right? I mean, it’s not a good thing for wordsmiths. However, to test it out I had ChatGPT write one story for me and posted it on the blog. The writing made sense but the story had no heart. Most readers didn’t like the story, fwiw– and I felt slimy for using AI.
If I can see how some new technology will solve a problem for me I’ll adopt it, but it’s just a different way of doing something that already works, I’ll pass on it. Just because it’s new doesn’t mean it’s better.
Ally, I certainly wouldn’t smack you as “slimy” for using AI–you’re just being experimental–right?
And I’ll quote you on this, “Just because itβs new doesnβt mean itβs better.” Jerry Seinfeld would be so proud! π
Did Jerry Seinfeld say that? I never watched much of his TV show. Huh.
Like most things having to do with new technology, I’m slow to adapt. Usually, I decide to learn something after it becomes mainstream and realize I’m hanging onto the caboose. I don’t want to be left totally in the dust, and yet I operate from a place where I’m normally content.
Progress should make things easier and not more complicated. I call to make a doctor’s appointment, and I often have to wait for someone to call me back to set up the date. Four hours later, my cell rings as I’m driving. If I pick up my phone (I know I shouldn’t but sometimes do) the scheduler suggests a date so far into the future I have no idea if it will work.
Passwords for everything under the sun. Do I let my computer keep track of these because I’ll never remember them? Do I write them down somewhere?
Why is my cable service constantly going in and out after the company makes “upgrades?” Why do I need so many buttons on my television remote? I only want to change the volume or station. When I inadvertently hit one of the 64 buttons, I’m screwed because I can’t figure out what I did.
Whew! I don’t feel like I’m venting, but you may have given me a future blog post. Have a great day, Marian. Now, where did I put my shopping list? π€£
My blog is certainly a safe place to vent, and you have definitely hit on some key points about the irritations of living with technology nowadays. (By the way, Cliff has a few choice comments for you, Pete.) π
Pete, for your next birthday I’ll get you a remote with 200 buttons, microphone, speakers and maybe it’ll even have a camera to take a photo of the flick you’re streaming but haven’t finished so you can remember the title the next day π Marian and I do this.
Sometimes (I suppose it’s AI) if I want to take a small part out of a photo I’ve scanned, Photoshop can do that and make it blend in so well that most people wouldn’t even notice unless they saw the original.
If used judiciously, this kind of AI is useful. I’m sure most of us would be horrified to find how much information companies glean from us when we use our cell phones and sign up for a “free” app, probably gathered by some form of AI algorithms snatching information, piling up on somebody’s server in some known or unknown country.
Thanks for checking in on this knotty topic.
I remember when I struggled just using an Apple computer at home after I retired. It was hard to make the switch from my old Dell in my college office. Oh, my gosh!
I’m sure also Pete appreciates your honest-to-goodness suggestions. π
Like others here, I am impressed that you are keeping up with the changes in how writers, editors, and publishers are impacted by both AI and Substack. Since I am letting my blogging become very sporadic, I am not tempted to use AI for any purpose, except play. I gave Bard the assignment to write a paragraph about the “grand sandwich generation” a year ago. My readers were not attracted to the boilerplate prose: https://shirleyshowalter.com/the-grandsandwich-generation/
Yes, I remember that blog post and commented on it as well. As I recall, you published the “grand-sandwich generation” around the time of my launch party for memoir #2, which seems so long ago.
I like the idea of using AI for “play,” which is how I’d characterize my little caprice with the Red Queen today.
(Enjoy those grandchildren this week!) π
I feel that I dodged a bullet/guided missile when I stopped teaching writing just before ChatGBT hit. The plagiarism problem was out of control as it was, and I hated the role of plagiarism police.
In the workplace, I was an early software adopter for years. Too often it turned out to be a big waste of time or fraught with unintended negative consequences. So–early adopter no more!! Right now, I think generative AI is as overhyped as the snake oil salesman’s wares. AI will get rid of catarrh, dyspepsia, ladies’ complaints, malaria, dropsy, and gout! (I apologize for taking out my sarcastic voice.)
Sarcasm is a good tone of voice for this topic, Liz. Thanks for sounding off here. You probably represent many authors’ viewpoint. π
Thank you for understanding, Marian.
Plain and simple, I am not a fan of AI. But I do appreciate you sharing your experience.
Ann, I believe this is a one-time experience with AI for me. Thanks for coming along for the ride! π
Great post, Marian! I am not a fan of AI. One of my long time blogger friends recently told me that she now writes all of her posts with the help of AI. I had noticed that the tone of her blogs have changed. Her posts seem lifeless now. However, I did not want to hurt her feelings by telling her this.
Maybe you’ll get the courage to say at some point, “Mary, your posts seemed more lively before you started using AI.” (Or maybe not.)
Thank you for confirming the sentiment of most authors sounding off here today, Linda Lee. π
This is a very interesting post, Marian. I wrote about and tried AI a few months ago and although I did not like its writing style (too repetitive), I did enjoy the image it created of a young girl with a turbulent childhood who loves to laugh and write. π I was blown away by your “red queen writing a blog post”. WOW! What a great idea to generate. I’m also fascinated by your research about Substack vs. WordPress. I have heard of it, but truly, know nothing about it. I’m curious, are you considering it?
Oh, Melanie, I just commented on your post, hot off the press, and now I see you here as well.
No, I’m not a fan of AI either: Too repetitive, too artificial, devoid of heart, especially as its use applies to writing.
Also, I’m not considering Substack either. Some of my author friends have migrated their websites to the new service, but I’m happy with WordPress for now. Also, I don’t find a need to monetize my blog at the moment. Thanks for asking! π
Good to know, Marian. I may take a peek, but I don’t have any tech assistance here, and my skills only go so far, haha. Thanks!
π
Marian – this is a most excellent post and I have really appreciated the discussion. I have an equation about change and the acceptance of new ideas, technologies etc.
No + T (time) = Yes.
I read that when telephones were introduced into households that many people wouldnβt answer the phones because of health risks.
I have been following the ascent of Ai over the past years, recognizing that it was only a matter of time before the financial industry (my career choice) would adapt AI technology. The transition has been remarkable and so many positive benefits have been gained. Even so, the reduction in staffing has been substantial.
Without question, we all know that the adaptation to AI is already underway in various industries, with advancements in technology accelerating the process. Many experts predict that widespread integration of AI into daily life could happen within the next decade as businesses and individuals continue to embrace the benefits of automation and machine learning. The speed of adaptation will depend on factors such as regulatory frameworks, societal acceptance, and technological developments, but it is clear that AI is becoming increasingly integrated into our society.
The question then becomes, will time create the opportunity to turn our βnoβ into βyesβ. I do not know that answer to this question. So that is why these conversations are essential.
Thank you, Rebecca, for taking the time to write such a thorough reply here. It’s good to hear an opposing viewpoint, especially from someone with the perspective of the financial industry. Probably, trying to stop technological advances is sort of like putting a finger in the dyke when there is such a strong current toward acceptance/adoption. It occurs to me too that the equation of No + T (time) = Yes could also apply to a young man trying to overcome the resistance of his girlfriend toward marriage–ha! π
πππ
Looks like you had some fun, Marian! Iβm not into new technologies much and, yes, it is hard to keep up with βeverything.β We have to set priorities and, for me, that means the more immediate life-important issues that arise or staying comfortable, healthy, and active. None of that requires AI! π But, our car navigation, work situation, and other tasks do. π
You and Mark have a healthy balance. As I recall, he spent time in the computer world and is very tech savvy, a plus for both of you. I hope you have a great time re-charging in more ways than one, Liesbet. When do you leave for the North, wonder. π
Hi Marian, congratulations on trying out AI. I have used it in a very limited way to design pages using my images and poems. I always have to change it a lot because, well, because I am I – haha!
I think creatives like you resist “machinery” telling them what to do. Your readers all seem to love your unique “take” on poetry, prose, and fondant artistry. Thanks for checking in today, Robbie! π
My pleasure, Marian π
Ackkkkkkkkkkkk! I’m tearing my hair out and grinning at the same time. (As my guy says, I’m fortunate that I have a thick head of hair). Anyway, as much as I’d like to, I don’t think we can ignore AI (or A – 1 as I pronounce it – hey, we use a lot of A-1 sauce in our house). My son has insisted that we must learn to use it and that it will change the world in less than five years.” I’m horribly afraid he may be right. My illustrator for my next children’s book was here last week for a few days and she and her husband were aghast when I told them I’ve used AI images for my blog posts. “We artists will become nonentities,” she sighed. I pray that she is wrong. I pray that most of us learn to use A1 as an adjunct to our creativity, not as an excuse to not create.
That said, I’m slowly not keeping up on all the “new” technologies out there (like Substack, whaaa?) and I’m prepared to be clueless and ignorant about much of it. My brain is fried from all the changes.
That said (haha) congrats to you for persisting with the AI images. That is ONE INTENSE Red Queen blogging. I have found that when I ask for an image, I can then say “make her older and using a laptop to write” (for instance) and I get a new image. I have found (and been told I’m correct) that AI doesn’t know how to show ‘age.’ Women are either hunched over gray elders, or attractive young females. I’m going to be the squeaky wheel and keep testing AI images about that….”
Pam, again, thanks for the nudge to take the risk to use a teeny bit of AI. Without trendsetters (May I call you that?), I would just keep producing what I know, and not experiment with new stuff.
I do agree, maybe “use A1 as an adjunct to our creativity, not as an excuse to not create.”
Thanks for sounding off here and being one of my most clever mentors! π
NO, you may not call me a trendsetter. Hahaha. I hide behind my guest room closet door at the thought of needing to learn ‘new things.’ But “needs must,” as my British pal says. Many hugs to you, my friend.
Witty reply, as always! π
π xo
Hi Marian – this is an excellent post and I’m sorry it has taken me this long to read it. AI is a hot topic at our house. It’s something that can be very helpful, but also very damaging. We have used AI for years without realizing it because it’s integrated in so much of what we do – your GPS example is a great one. I have taken several trainings at work and have used Chat GPT to help prepare library programs, but you REALLY have to look at the results and question if they are good ones. I’d say it’s good as a starting point, but you must use your own critical thinking to get anywhere. As for creative endeavors, I question the use of AI, but I have to say I like your Red Queen image, so what do I know?
Your words carry authority because you have used AI in your work and also understand the ramifications of it elsewhere. I latched on to these words: “itβs good as a starting point, but you must use your own critical thinking to get anywhere.” Amen, sister! π
Marian β I’m one of those people who moved their newsletter (only) from Mailchimp to Substack. Not a trusting technology user, I harbor a lot of “what ifs.” As such, my blog remains on WordPress, and my author’s website remains on WIX. What if Substack goes under, and all my eggs are in one basket? Yikes!
Speaking of trust, I have none with AI. My extent of use is asking Siri to get me from Point A to Point B with GPS. Ninety percent of the time, she’s accurate. The other ten percent, not so much.
Laurie, just like with mystery plots, you have a clear-eyed view of using technology–where it stands now and what may develop in the future.
Yes, I too regularly use GPS for navigating, even in town. I like forewarning when it’s time to think about making a turn as I’d rather not do U-turns. Thanks for checking in again, my friend. π
What a fun post Marian. No, I’m not thrilled about AI either, but you did a wonderful job with Red Queen! As for blogging, I’ll stick to WordPress. <3
Once again, we are aligned, Debby! π
It’s good to have daring friends, but I haven’t wanted to go near AI. Maybe when I’m completely healed from this asthma side-trip, I’ll experiment. In truth, I want to do less with my computer, so I’m not motivated to learn more. I won’t forget this Intense Red Queen side of Marian. Go, Marian!
Oh, Elaine, I’m so sorry about your asthma. Spring is probably bustin’ out all over in the Finger Lakes, so maybe your discomfort is related to allergies. I hope you find relief soon.
As for the sudden burst of energy recently: I guess the Red Queen motivated me to experiment. Right now I feel no urge to engage with AI or another other “new, big thing.” Thanks for checking in today! π
Hi,
It was nice reading how other people think about AI as well as reading your opinion on how overloaded writers are. However, I see it differently. I don’t think writers are overloaded anymore than others in their type of work. And as for AI, I have been to conferences about it, and I see that the majority are impressed by it, but I’d rather do my critical thinking, write my own dialogue, create my own story myself. When I have to have AI to write my story, then maybe it is time for me to retire from writing.
I am sorry that I am late responding. I am participating in a writing contest and therefore did not have the time to respond right away.
Take care.
Shalom shalom
I had to chuckle when I read: “When I have to have AI to write my story, then maybe it is time for me to retire from writing.” My sentiments exactly.
No need to apologize. I applaud your submitting work for a writing contest; I hope you win, Pat! π