Chapter 1: The Journey Begins

Throughout my life, I have recognized that my writing tends to be quite straightforward. Lacking formal training in literature and having English as my second language, I never delved deeply into the world of poetic writing. Yet, I harbored aspirations of becoming an accomplished author. I started my writing journey with personal blogs, transitioned to news articles, and this year, I ventured into book writing.

In March, I completed my first novel, a work of romantic fiction. Given that my previous writings rarely exceeded 2000 words, I decided to craft a simple, random story for my inaugural book, merely to gain experience in longer formats. The result was a straightforward narrative that reflected my novice status. Although I appreciated the outcome, I yearned for something more polished and ambitious for my next project—something that could potentially be adapted into a film.

With this goal in mind, I sought ways to refine my writing skills for my second book. I turned to AI tools designed to enhance writing. Initially, I used AI merely to edit my paragraphs, transforming my basic ideas into something that sounded more professional. The complex vocabulary and poetic flair of the AI-generated text impressed me, especially since I lacked a deep understanding of English literature.

As I grew more comfortable with these tools, I began seeking suggestions for plot progression, and the AI filled in gaps with short paragraphs. I envisioned finishing my second book in half the time it took to write the first, and I was excited about the prospect of producing a more sophisticated manuscript.

However, as I delved deeper, I noticed that the language became increasingly intricate and hard to follow. I attributed this to my unfamiliarity with such elaborate words, disregarding my instincts because I was still pleased with the AI's output.

Yet, it soon became evident that my second book was cluttered with convoluted language that detracted from its readability. The belief that complex vocabulary equates to quality writing is a misconception; excessive use of complicated terms can severely hinder the reader's experience.

For novice writers, AI-generated edits might seem impressive, but to someone who has relied on these tools for an extended period, they can appear superficial and lacking in substance. Once accustomed to AI suggestions, it becomes apparent when a paragraph has been crafted by a machine. Even attempts to reinterpret those suggestions in my own words often resulted in an unmistakable robotic tone.

When I reviewed my work, I felt disheartened. The manuscript was repetitive, filled with the same phrases and devoid of genuine emotion. A recurring thought plagued me during my reading: "No one speaks like this; what is this?"

For instance, a simple line like:

"I looked away."

Transformed into:

"I was about to avert my gaze."

And mundane descriptions became overly elaborate:

"Luckily, the heavy rain had stopped, and only small clouds remained in the sky."

Was rewritten to:

"The deluge had ceased, leaving behind a dampened calm as we congregated in the parking lot, driven out by the emergency sirens blaring from the hospital's speakers."

Such transformations took my voice away. I struggled to grasp my own ideas, and if I couldn’t comprehend the story I had written, what was the point?

Excessive reliance on AI stifled my creativity; I felt disconnected from my own thoughts. I remembered writing my first book with a natural flow, as if the ideas were pouring out of me, filling blank pages effortlessly.

Now, I found myself unable to produce even 300 words without assistance. My daily output had dwindled from 1000-3000 words to a mere 2000 over the past two weeks. I lost the joy of creation and felt disillusioned by the results of my efforts.

AI had dulled my creative instincts; I started to think like a machine. I regretted attempting to change my style in pursuit of sophistication, leading to a second book I couldn't take pride in. While AI-generated suggestions might be perceived as the optimal path to writing success, I no longer valued that. If it didn't resonate with me, it simply wasn't worth pursuing. My book had become a hollow representation of who I am.

Thus, I resolved never to use AI in my writing again, regardless of how beneficial it might seem. I would rather express my authentic self, even if it meant my work was perceived as simplistic.

Ultimately, I've decided to rewrite everything I've done for my second book. Though this means sacrificing time and progress, I want to take pride in the outcome rather than settle for a finished product that lacks soul. Above all, I aim to create a book that genuinely reflects my voice.

Relying on AI is not worthwhile. Even if used for brainstorming, filling in gaps, or refining drafts, the result will inevitably feel mechanical. No matter how advanced the technology, it will always lack the warmth and humanity of true creativity.

If you want your readers to connect with your writing, it must come from your heart and mind. Regardless of how simple you perceive your words to be, they will always resonate more than robotic phrases.

I cherish the essence of storytelling, not just the mechanics of writing. Even if I doubt my ability to produce a polished manuscript, I know my authentic voice will surpass any artificial creation.

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Chapter 2: Embracing My Voice

In this insightful video, "AI Will Make You a Better Writer IF You Do This…," the speaker explores how to effectively integrate AI into your writing process while preserving your unique voice.

Chapter 3: Writing with AI in 2024

In "How to Write a Book with AI in 2024 (2 Best Methods)," the presenter shares valuable strategies for leveraging AI tools to enhance writing without losing authenticity.