Can artificial intelligence write a bestseller? Will human authors become irrelevant? And would you encourage your children to pursue writing as a career?
These are some of the provocative questions explored in the latest episode of tabla! Talks, which I recently recorded with three Singapore-based authors – Sunanda Verma, Push Sharma and Rahul Singh.
The discussion goes beyond the familiar debate about whether AI can replace human creativity. It explores what motivates people to write, the challenges of getting published and whether storytelling can remain a viable profession in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Ms Sunanda, an author and journalist, spoke about her experience of writing about identity, multiculturalism and the Indian diaspora.
Mr Push, an entrepreneur, corporate leader and bestselling fiction author, offers insights into balancing professional commitments with literary ambitions.
Mr Rahul, an author, banker and community builder, contributes perspectives on writing, purpose and the next generation.
Our candid conversation examines whether publishers increasingly favour commercial appeal over literary merit, whether social media popularity matters more than good writing, and whether readers are losing patience with serious literature.
We also explore the ethical boundaries of AI-assisted writing. Is using ChatGPT to develop plots or polish prose acceptable? Should authors disclose their reliance on AI?
Most importantly, will young people still aspire to become authors despite financial uncertainty and technological competition?
The episode raises one compelling question: Twenty years from now, will great storytelling depend on human imagination or artificial intelligence?
Watch tabla! talks on YouTube for a thought-provoking discussion about the future of the written word.
