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Looking for a literary spark to ignite your imagination? In this newsletter, we’ll discuss the basics that authors need to navigate through the new and uncharted territory of human-AI love affairs. From creating electric chemistry between digital darlings and their human heartthrobs to navigating the minefield of ethical quandaries that robo-romance brings, you’ll have a better understanding of the pros and pitfalls of writing in this genre.
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Since you’re reading this newsletter on the internet, I’m going to make a broad assumption that you don’t live under a rock. Or, if you do, you leave your rocky hideaway to access WiFi somewhere, or you got creative and found a way to run fiber optic cable to your stone abode. Either way, it’s unlikely you’ve missed the whole “robot overlords are coming for us” vibe, given the explosion of artificial intelligence (AI) tools this year. AI was slowly seeping into our daily lives for the longest time, nudging and prodding and poking at the margins. Then, like most disruptive things, one day it’s all up in your face and not going anywhere. So, like it or not, a new AI frontier brings new interest in AI relationships—particularly AI romance.
While the AI romance genre has existed since at least the mid-20th century, much like The Jetsons, not everything they predicted came true. At the same time, some things hit a bit closer to home as reality now unfolds, laying the groundwork for current authors to build on. It's no surprise, then, that the explosion of AI technology once again bleeds over onto the pages of romance fiction. With the rise of robo-romance, authors are faced with a unique set of challenges and opportunities to explore love in a brave new world. But how do you craft compelling human-AI love stories?
Do Those Circuits Spark?
Creating a romantic spark between human and AI characters can be a daunting task. One key aspect is to focus on shared experiences, interests, or values that bridge the gap between organic and artificial beings. Emphasize emotional growth and understanding and use these connections to build chemistry that transcends the characters' differences. Remember, love often thrives in unexpected places, so don't shy away from exploring unconventional relationships and bringing diversity into the characters and plot.
The Ethics of Robo-Romance
Human-AI relationships inevitably raise ethical questions. As an author, dive into these complexities to enrich your storylines. Consider issues like consent, ownership, and autonomy: How does an AI character navigate a relationship when its existence and decisions may be dictated by its programming or creator? Use these ethical dilemmas to create tension and drive character development, while also prompting readers to ponder the implications of AI romance, and if you’re particularly good at your craft, subtly tie those themes back to human-human relationships.
Heartstrings or Crossed Wires: AI Emotions
Emotions are at the core of any romance, and AI characters are no exception. Whether an AI's emotions are pre-programmed or developed through learning, find ways to make them feel genuine and relatable. Use metaphors and analogies to describe how an AI perceives and processes emotions and consider the potential for emotional evolution or self-discovery. Strive to portray AI emotions as complex and nuanced, just as human emotions are. One-note characters, including AI, will be lifeless and boring. And although some of us may hope AI remains boring and uninterested in us, keeping them that way makes for an incredibly boring romance read.
Handling the Singularity
No, that’s not a euphemism.
The singularity is the hypothetical point in the future when AI becomes so advanced that it would surpass human intelligence and improve itself autonomously, resulting in unforeseeable changes to human society. On the one hand, this could be a good thing, as it could provide vast improvements in medicine, energy, and all kinds of technology. On the other, AI could decide humans are their own worst enemy and in need of a babysitter.
Granted, the singularity is still a speculative concept**, but as technology advances towards it, human-AI relationships could look more plausible, and could significantly impact society. Leveraging these futuristic scenarios to create thought-provoking stories means exploring the potential consequences of AI characters gaining sentience or transcending their original programming. How might human-AI romance reshape social norms and expectations? How might the script be flipped when it is AI that has the ethical dilemma of determining if humans are capable of a relationship with a superior being? Use these types of questions to craft engaging stories that challenge readers' preconceptions and spark their imaginations.
Notable Novels and Inspiring Ideas
To get your creative juices flowing, consider exploring some of the standout works in the AI romance subgenre. Titles such as "Her" by Spike Jonze, "The Silver Metal Lover" by Tanith Lee, and "Machines Like Me" by Ian McEwan offer unique takes on human-AI relationships. These novels provide valuable insights into the creative possibilities of robo-romance and serve as a springboard for your own innovative ideas. Take the most recent developments in the field and run with them.
Final Sparks: Igniting Your AI Romance
As authors, embracing the challenges and opportunities of AI romance can lead to groundbreaking stories that captivate readers. By tackling complex ethical questions, crafting believable emotional connections, and envisioning a world transformed by human-AI love, you can help shape the future of romance fiction. So, boot up your imagination and let AI romance be your next literary adventure
** ▼
Granted, the singularity is still a speculative concept
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Romance/Love: May 03, 2023 Issue [#11942]
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