At a recent literary discussion in London's Piccadilly, renowned writers Xuemo and Zhang Huaicun explored the complex relationship between artificial intelligence and literature, offering nuanced perspectives on technology's impact on creative expression.
The event, which drew nearly one hundred attendees including cultural diplomats and artists, centered on the fundamental question of whether AI poses a genuine threat to human creativity. Both authors characterized the challenge not as a technological issue, but as a deeply human one, rooted in moral and spiritual considerations.
Xuemo articulated a balanced view, suggesting that AI's potential for enrichment or destruction depends entirely on human intentionality. He argued that technological progress must be accompanied by spiritual development to prevent humanity from losing its essential qualities. Critically, he emphasized that while AI tools demonstrate remarkable efficiency, they fundamentally lack human consciousness and the capacity for direct life experience—qualities he considers essential to meaningful literary creation.
Zhang Huaicun reinforced this perspective, asserting that genuine literature transcends mere word assembly. She maintained that true literary excellence emerges from emotional resonance and spiritual guidance—domains where algorithmic processes remain fundamentally limited. Her stance suggests that the emotional depth and nuanced understanding required for compelling storytelling cannot be replicated by current technological systems.
The discussion highlighted the importance of maintaining human creativity's unique characteristics in an increasingly technology-driven world. Both writers advocated for literature's role as a spiritual compass, offering guidance and nourishment during technological transformation.
Their conversation underscored a critical point: technological tools are neither inherently beneficial nor destructive. Instead, their impact depends on human values, intentions, and our collective commitment to preserving authentic emotional expression.
As industries continue to be reshaped by artificial intelligence, the perspectives shared by Xuemo and Zhang offer a thoughtful framework for understanding technology's role. They remind us that while AI can be a powerful tool, it cannot replace the fundamental human capacities for empathy, imagination, and profound emotional experience.
