How to Write a Memoir Authentically

I saw a great article today about writing and artificial intelligence entitled: "Why Human Writing is Worth Defending in The Age of  ChatGPT" by Naomi S. Baron that I wanted to share (article like below).

The reason is: I could not agree more.

Naomi States:

"The literate brain empowers us to use writing as a canvas for witnessing our thoughts.

Recall Flannery O’Connor’s much-quoted remark that “I write because I don’t know what I think until I read what I say.”

Her sentiment is hardly unique in literary annals. You’ll find it echoed by Horace Walpole, E.M. Forster, Arthur Koestler, George Bernard Shaw, William Faulkner, and, of course, Joan Didion (“I don’t know what I think until I write it down”). "

... If writing helps us think, what happens when we surrender the process to AI?

We risk becoming cognitively and expressively disempowered."

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Well said, and very probably true I'm afraid. 

Writing a memoir authentically is something that I have always championed - because it gives the writer a chance to be who they actually are, and not disingenuous.

I mean, God, The Divine Being, The Supreme Being, or however you define The Creator, created us all a little differently for a reason. And we are all here on earth for a unique and special reason as well.

... So, why not be yourself, and write authentically about your life and what you think? 

You have the right, and I think that everyone should share their unique perspective - because it contributes to a more rich collective experience.

I understand that some memoir writers want to create a book that will be loved and cherished by many generations after their passing. But, that type of exquisite book raises the bar significantly on expected quality, content, and impact to the reader.

So, if you ARE an overachiever (like me, many times) go for it!

But for the rest of us, you are more than enough just the way you are now, so do not feel any pressure to produce the next NIGHT (by Elie Wiesel).

... So please don't use ChatGPT or Bard to create a cookie cutter, vanilla, or plain Jane memoir derivative.

Your life is unique and so is your life story.

Tell it authentically.

Your family, friends - - - and the 100 generations that come after you - - - will love it!  

Try out The Life Writer App for free here:

https://www.thelifewriter.com/user/register

Naomi's excellent article is below.