Developing a Writing Style - An Experiment in AI - Lorrie Orr

 

Artificial Intelligence - what does it mean for writers, and other creatives? Chat GPT was released in late November 2022, and another version, Chat GPT4 in March 2023. The capabilities are causing consternation throughout academia as schools, publishers, and others grapple with the possibilities and drawbacks of this new technology. In an effort to understand just what Chat GPT could do, I signed up for it with my Microsoft account. I asked it how to develop a writing style. Here's what it gave me in less than six seconds.

Developing a unique writing style takes time, practice, and a lot of experimentation. Here are some tips to help you develop your own unique writing style:

1.     Read widely: Read a variety of books, articles, and other forms of writing to expose yourself to different styles and techniques.

2.     Write often: Practice writing regularly to develop your writing skills and to find your own voice. Try different genres and formats to explore what works best for you.

3.     Experiment with different writing techniques: Try different approaches to writing, such as using metaphors, analogies, or humor, to find your own unique style.

4.     Find your own voice: Write in a way that is authentic and reflects your personality and values. Don't be afraid to express your own opinions and emotions in your writing.

5.     Edit and revise: After you have written a piece, revise and edit it to make sure it flows well and is free of errors. This process can help you refine your writing style and make it more unique.

Remember, developing a unique writing style is a journey, not a destination. It takes time and effort, but with practice and persistence, you can develop a style that is all your own.

Rather boring, I thought, but the bones of good advice are there. Then I asked it to write the same information in the style of Hemingway. Here's the response:

Developing a unique writing style takes grit, practice, and a heap of experimentation. To find your own voice, you gotta read widely and write often. Don't shy away from trying different approaches, like using metaphors, analogies, or humor. Be true to yourself and express your opinions and emotions fearlessly. And don't forget to edit and revise, honing your style until it's as sharp as a blade. Developing your own style is a journey, a rough road that requires time and effort, but with persistence, you can make it your own.

And in the style of Margaret Atwood:

Developing a unique writing style is a gradual process, one that requires patience, perseverance, and plenty of experimentation. To cultivate your own distinctive voice, it's essential to read widely and write often. Don't be afraid to explore various techniques, such as metaphors, analogies, or humor, until you find what resonates with you. Above all, let your writing be an authentic reflection of your personality and values, without compromising your integrity. Remember that editing and revising are vital parts of the writing process, refining your style until it's polished and refined. Developing your own style takes time and dedication, but with hard work and tenacity, it's possible to create something truly unique. 

And in the style of Charles Dickens:

To develop a unique writing style requires perseverance, diligence, and the utmost commitment. One must read extensively and write with unwavering dedication to discover their own voice. Experimentation is key, for one must try their hand at various techniques, including the use of metaphors, analogies, and humor, to uncover their unique style. Above all, one must remain true to oneself, conveying their opinions and emotions without reservation or compromise. The process of editing and revising is equally important, polishing and refining one's style until it gleams like a polished diamond. Remember, dear writer, that developing a singular style requires patience and tireless effort, but with persistence, one can achieve a greatness that will leave a lasting impression upon the world of literature.

I was surprised by the ability of the program to capture Hemingway's strong, casual vocabulary and syntax, Atwood's smooth flowing words, and Dicken's wordiness along with addressing the reader. 

So what does this mean for writers? The irony of a ChatBot writing "Above all, let your writing be an authentic reflection of your personality and values, without compromising your integrity" was not lost on me. Schools are already dealing with students using the technology inappropriately.

This article discusses possible responses to technological change, and I believe they are worth considering. Even if one doesn't engage in AI, it's good to be aware. 

This post is getting to be far too long, but I'm interested to know if you have experimented with Artificial Intelligence in your writing, and if so, what are the possible benefits and pitfalls? I believe we are all going to have to grapple with it sooner rather than later. What are appropriate uses for such technology for writers? 

Lorrie Orr writes from Vancouver Island where she enjoys boating and hiking with her husband. Gardening, sewing, reading, and spending time with her five grandchildren fill her days with happiness and contentment. She is newly retired from teaching high school Spanish.