Let’s talk about AI and its impact as we move through February 2026. I have some thoughts on this, so let’s dive in.
1. I don’t use AI in my writing. There are practical reasons for this. AI-generated text isn’t protected by copyright. I want my work to be solely mine, without any confusion over ownership. My contracts require me to write everything myself. Plus, I believe my writing is better than what AI can produce. I can create a novel fueled by snacks, without needing to waste energy or resources. It’s simpler and more satisfying.
2. I’m not worried about AI taking my spot as a novelist. Sure, AI can churn out novels faster than anyone can read them, but most of that work will go unread. Fewer people will care about books written without effort. People want to find quality, and that often comes with marketing. My established name and my publishers will keep my books visible. Readers will know when I release something new.
3. General fatigue with AI is setting in. Many are tired of seeing AI jammed into every aspect of tech. Microsoft even scaled back its AI product because users didn’t like it. Energy bills are rising, partly due to the energy drain from AI. People are noticing. Authentic human work is becoming more appealing as the public grows weary of poorly thought-out AI implementations.
4. I support human artists. All aspects of my work, including book cover design and editing, must be done by people. I want my work to help other creatives earn a living. When I buy art or creative work, I choose human-made products over AI-generated ones.
5. AI is likely here to stay in some form. I don’t believe it will dominate like some fear, but it will exist amidst a cultural shift. We may see a move away from the negative stigma associated with AI as people adapt to new terms and uses. For example, some companies are already using ethical approaches to train AI systems while compensating creators. That kind of practice could restore some trust in the technology.
6. AI is a marketing term. Not all AI is the same. While generative AI raises ethical issues, other types have been around and used in non-controversial ways. The term “AI” could lose its popularity and be subdivided into more specific categories as the situation evolves.
7. Ethical training for AI could have been done. Companies could have chosen to train AI on public domain material or secured licenses in an ethical way. Decisions made without consideration for the original creators have led to distrust in the entire field.
8. AI is integrated in many creative workflows. From Photoshop to various apps, AI is often embedded in tools without clear labeling. Many creatives may not even know they are using it. It’s important to focus on the final product and the human element behind it rather than getting bogged down in how AI fits into the process.
9. Stay informed about AI. Although I don’t use it, I keep track of what’s happening with AI tools and changes in technology. It’s essential for anyone in a creative field to know how these tools could affect their work.
10. Some people are required to use AI at work. Many employees haven’t chosen to embrace AI; they’re compelled to do so for their jobs. It’s crucial not to judge them too harshly for that. People need to provide for their families, and sometimes that means compromising on personal ethics.
In conclusion, while I see AI’s potential, I choose to focus on what I create as an artist. It’s all about delivering a unique experience that only a human can provide. Your creativity and efforts matter deeply, and that’s what people truly value in art.
