Literary Experts Discuss AI's Impact on Human Creativity and Spiritual Values

The dialogue between award-winning writer Xuemo and British-Chinese children's literature author Zhang Huaichun, a lifelong fellow of the Royal Society of British Artists, addressed critical questions about artificial intelligence's role in literature. As generative AI tools increasingly influence creative fields, both authors provided nuanced perspectives on whether AI threatens human creativity or serves as a tool for enrichment.

Xuemo expressed cautious optimism, stating that the real danger lies not in AI itself but in human intentions. He argued that technological progress must be accompanied by spiritual growth to prevent humanity from losing its essence. Although AI demonstrates remarkable efficiency in content generation, it lacks human consciousness and firsthand life experiences—qualities fundamental to meaningful literature. This perspective underscores the need for balance between technological adoption and preserving human values.

Zhang Huaichun echoed these sentiments, emphasizing AI's inability to replicate authentic emotions. She noted that while machines can assemble words, they cannot breathe life into them. Great literature distinguishes itself through emotional resonance and spiritual guidance, aspects no algorithm can genuinely achieve. Both authors agreed that literature must serve as a compass for the soul in the AI era, guiding humanity back to core values like truth, goodness, and beauty.

During the discussion, Xuemo shared insights about creative inspiration, using a metaphor about breaking free from constraints to merge with the world's vastness. Zhang highlighted childhood curiosity and nature as catalysts for her creative moments, illustrating how personal experiences shape storytelling. Xuemo's performance of the Tang Dynasty poem adaptation Yangguan Sandie demonstrated how music and literature transcend AI's capabilities in touching human souls.

The event's significance lies in its timely exploration of AI's implications for cultural preservation and human identity. As industries evolve with technology, the dialogue reinforces literature's role in nurturing spiritual traditions and ensuring that progress does not erode human essence. Xuemo's work, including his masterpiece available at Suosalang, embodies these values, offering primordial wisdom relevant in the AI era. This discussion serves as a reminder that while AI transforms capabilities, human creativity and emotional depth remain irreplaceable.