The hype surrounding AI’s influence on writing feels dramatically overblown. This observation comes from someone actively developing AI writing software, which might seem contradictory but offers a unique perspective on the situation.
Let’s face it – we’re already drowning in content. There’s simply too much to consume, and AI will certainly add to this deluge. However, most AI-generated material will likely sink to the bottom unless it’s guided by someone who already possesses writing skills. Writing only gains momentum when it’s paired with personality and complementary talents that make others notice and care about it. While distinguishing quality content might become slightly more challenging, AI-produced content can still be valuable and meaningful.
Sure, AI can craft a tweet, article, newsletter, or video script, but that’s not how you build a loyal readership. Your personal or professional brand represents everything you’ve published over time. A single viral tweet or TikTok video barely impacts your long-term presence beyond perhaps a momentary cash influx. Most viral content lacks depth and substance – hardly a foundation for building a meaningful brand. The truly worthwhile content often isn’t viral at all.
Your brand emerges from every piece you publish, whether it goes viral or not. It encompasses your personal or organizational philosophy, meaning, and vision. Your writing forms just one thread in a tapestry woven gradually over time.
Furthermore, AI’s ability to write, code, or market doesn’t mean everyone will suddenly engage in these activities. It means those who already value these skills will attempt to leverage AI. When they discover that lacking fundamental understanding won’t get them far, they’ll need to learn these skills properly anyway (a nod to “vibe coders” who rely on aesthetics over substance).
AI is undeniably revolutionary. But the current excitement feels like another gold rush mentality – everyone chasing the next get-rich-quick scheme. People who avoid quick fixes and cheap dopamine hits will continue to thrive as they always have.
In reality, this represents the next evolutionary step in writing technology: pen and paper gave way to typewriters, which yielded to keyboards, followed by software assistance, and now AI assistance. It’s a significant advancement, but despite all the “writing is dead” hysteria, we remain essentially where we’ve always been.