Ancient Authors Define Writing Beyond AI Output

A writing and rhetoric instructor considers how ancient definitions of writing challenge the notion that artificial intelligence can truly “write.” Examining the work of Enheduanna, a princess-priestess from ancient Iraq around 2300 BCE, the author finds writing used as a living medium to praise deities and plead for change. Enheduanna’s poem “The Exaltation of Inanna” shows writing actively shaping the future, even if historical evidence of events within the poem is limited.

Later, Plato and Aristotle viewed writing as a transformation of thought, rather than simple information transfer. Plato believed good writing could lead to truth, while Aristotle focused on using writing to persuade and “move souls.” Today, a study led by Natasha Jaques suggests AI writing risks a “blandification” of style, potentially limiting diverse thought.

The author proposes the term “generwrite” to describe AI-generated text, acknowledging its differences from human writing rooted in experience and intent. Further investigation into defining these distinctions remains important as AI tools evolve.