Brandon Sanderson has joined the ongoing discussion about artificial intelligence in the literary world, sharing concerns that resonate with many bestselling authors who oppose its implementation in publishing. The acclaimed writer of the Mistborn and Stormlight Archive series acknowledged some “interesting things” AI could offer but expressed hesitance regarding its application in creative fields.
In a recent TikTok video, Sanderson revealed he harbors reservations about AI art generation, particularly when individuals who input prompts claim ownership of the creations. He likened the act of providing AI prompts to the role of an art director, underscoring that directing art does not equate to actually creating it, nor does it grant one authorship over the final piece.
“People use AI for all sorts of interesting things,” Sanderson remarked. “My stance is, as I’ve said before, a little against it in creative endeavors. I’m concerned. One of the things I’m concerned about is people are saying, ‘Well, I’m an AI artist because I’m putting in the prompts.’”
He showcased sketches from the Stormlight Archive illustrated by Ben McSweeney, explaining that while he contributes ideas for his novels’ imagery, he would never take credit for the artwork. “I would never put my name as the artist on this piece of art. This is Ben McSweeney’s art. He did the art. Now, I gave him the prompt, yes. I asked for it, I commissioned it, I pushed him on it, but it’s his art. And this is kind of my worry with some of the AI things with writing and with art that’s happening. Being an art director does not give you ownership over the piece. And in this case — no matter how good your prompts, no matter how much you refine — you aren’t making the art.”
He concluded his video with a striking assertion: “I don’t think you’re an artist; I think you might be an art director to a machine.” This analogy resonates well, particularly with fans familiar with Sanderson’s intricate narratives and the illustrations accompanying them.
As the dialogue around AI in the publishing field intensifies, Sanderson’s perspective contributes to a growing chorus of authors expressing their unease. Notable writers like Victoria Aveyard and Adam Silvera have also taken to social media to advocate for a critical examination of AI’s impact on literature, especially following a federal court ruling permitting AI firms to utilize legally obtained copyrighted materials for training purposes, as reported by NPR.
With the heightened scrutiny regarding AI’s implications in publishing, Sanderson’s articulate position presents an accessible overview that may resonate widely with both consumers and industry stakeholders. His insights could potentially amplify the ongoing efforts of authors advocating against AI in creative processes, thereby encouraging broader discourse on the subject.
