My Friend A.I

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is everywhere. From the voice that tells you the weather forecast each morning to the algorithms deciding what you’ll binge-watch next, AI is deeply woven into our daily lives.

For me it’s also become a trusted professional ally.

As a writer, editor, and storyteller, my work thrives on creativity, precision, and efficiency. That’s where AI proves invaluable. Whether I’m brainstorming ideas, researching obscure historical facts, or seeking a fresh perspective on phrasing, I often turn to AI for help.

It’s like having a knowledgeable colleague on standby 24/7.

But let’s be clear:

AI won't supplant me, and it never will.

A Powerful Tool, Not a Replacement

AI is brilliant at augmenting what humans do. It can scan through vast amounts of information in seconds, summarise complex topics, and even suggest alternative word choices.

These capabilities save me time and sharpen my output. But AI lacks the one thing that makes human creativity unique: authenticity. It can analyse patterns and mimic styles, but it can’t live, feel, or understand the world as we do.

That’s the essence of writing—connecting with readers on a deeply human level—and no machine can, or will ever, replicate it.

I’m often asked, "Do you worry AI will replace writers?"

My answer is an unequivocal no. Writing is more than stringing sentences together; it’s about crafting stories that resonate, inspire, and endure. AI can assist with structure, grammar, and even tone, but it cannot replicate the depth of lived experience or the intuition that writers bring to their craft.

Research Without Replacing Reality

AI is also an exceptional research assistant. Need to dive into the nuances of 19th-century Bermondsey or explore the history of known leadership traits with cited examples from each one?

Both of which form the foundations of projects I am working on at the moment.

AI can sift through countless resources to provide insights and leads. But—and this is crucial—it’s up to me to verify those insights and ensure they’re accurate and relevant.

I never simply copy and paste AI-generated content; I use it as a foundation, something to to build upon, refining and expanding it with my own knowledge and perspective.

That’s a discipline I’d encourage anyone using AI to adopt. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking AI-generated content is infallible.

It isn’t.

Mistakes can creep in, biases may emerge, and the nuances of human experience often go missing. Relying too heavily on AI without adding your own input can dilute the authenticity of your work—and your voice.

And then you're not a writer any more. You're part of the machine.

 Artificial, Not Authentic

Let’s not forget what the "A" in A.I stands for: artificial. By its very nature, AI is a tool we create and control. It’s not sentient. It doesn’t form opinions, and it certainly doesn’t care about the outcome of your work.

It’s there to assist, not to think for you.

So while I embrace AI as an invaluable part of my creative toolkit, I also approach it with caution and respect. It’s a partner, not a replacement. And as its capabilities continue to evolve, I’ll keep doing what I do best: writing stories that only a human can tell…

…with a little help from my artificial friend.