In today’s rapidly evolving digital world, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into various fields, especially writing, has sparked an intense debate. While many embrace it as a transformative tool, others view it with skepticism. Substack, a platform synonymous with independent writing and newsletter publishing, finds itself at the forefront of this technological upheaval. As co-founder Hamish McKenzie pointed out, the generative AI boom presents a paradigm shift that writers must confront, regardless of their stance on the technology. This raises critical questions about the role AI plays in the creative process and how platforms like Substack adapt to this new reality.
In conversations with writers using Substack, it becomes evident that the prevailing trend is to employ AI as a supplementary tool rather than a replacement for human creativity. For instance, David Skilling, who runs the successful soccer newsletter Original Football, articulates a nuanced understanding of AI. Viewing it as a “substitute editor,” Skilling emphasizes productivity over replacement. The distinction he draws between AI-generated and AI-assisted writing is crucial; many creators on the platform are utilizing AI not to produce entire articles but rather to refine their existing ideas. This collaborative approach showcases a willingness to adapt without fully surrendering the authorial voice.
Similarly, Subham Panda from Spotlight by Xartup describes AI’s role as instrumental in content curation. By leveraging AI for tasks such as image creation and data aggregation, Panda and his team can maintain a focus on the narrative and insights they wish to convey. This model underscores the idea that while technology can enhance efficiency, it does not diminish the value of the human touch in storytelling and analysis.
The comments from financial writer Josh Belanger further illustrate the practicality of AI in modern writing. By using tools like ChatGPT and Claude, Belanger enhances his writing process rather than compromising its authenticity. His methodology—drafting his own thoughts and then refining them through AI—demonstrates a thoughtful blend of human creativity and technological assistance. The creation of custom GPTs highlights a proactive approach to addressing the challenges of technical writing, particularly in finance, where accuracy and specificity are paramount.
Max Avery’s experience with AI writing tools such as Hemingway Editor Plus similarly emphasizes the enhancement of writing quality. For many Substack authors, AI is a way to streamline their workflow, allowing for increased output without sacrificing quality. This relationship with AI suggests that the technology is being integrated into the writing process with intentionality and thoughtfulness, rather than being seen as a threat to originality and expression.
Interestingly, Substack appears to maintain a relatively low incidence of AI-generated content compared to other platforms like Medium, where up to 40% of articles may be created with such tools. This begs the question of how Substack’s community perceives AI’s influence. As Substack primarily caters to writers who value personal voice and niche topics, the organic connection between creator and audience remains paramount. The platform’s sustainability may rely on this unique relationship, making it less amenable to AI-dominated writing dynamics.
As we consider the future landscape of writing, the dichotomy between AI-generated and AI-assisted content will likely evolve. Substack writers exhibit a profound respect for the craft of writing, suggesting that while AI may assist in refining ideas, it will not replace the essence of human-driven narratives. The ongoing discourse about AI’s role in writing invites both caution and innovation. There remains a significant opportunity for platforms like Substack to carve out their niche in this intricate balance of technology and humanity.
The journey ahead for writers in the age of AI is not without hurdles, but as seen through the lens of Substack authors, embracing AI as a catalyst for creativity—rather than a competitor—may lead to unprecedented advancements in the art of storytelling. The key will be to harness the benefits of AI while continually championing the irreplaceable value of the human experience in writing.