When Creativity Feels Borrowed: A Quiet Reckoning for Writers in the Age of AI

As AI tools evolve, many writers are wondering: “Why does this sound like me?” A quiet, honest look at authorship, consent, and creativity.

vintage typewriter in dimly lit room: As AI tools evolve, many writers are wondering: “Why does this sound like me?” A quiet, honest look at authorship, consent, and creativity.

You spent years finding your voice.
And now, it shows up… somewhere else — without your name next to it.

It’s a strange feeling, isn’t it?
Let’s walk through this together — just you and me.

Because something’s happening in our world of words.
And if you’ve ever written from the heart, you might be feeling it too.

The Quiet Question No One Asked

Can AI learn how to write by studying our content — without asking us first?

It already has.
And while the technology is incredible… the way it’s being trained raises some honest, hard questions.

So, What’s Happening?

Many popular AI models were trained using massive amounts of online content.
That includes books, blogs, social media posts — even the kind of Medium articles and LinkedIn updates that people like you and me spend hours crafting.

And most of it? Taken without permission.

Why Does This Feel Personal?

Look — I’m not anti-AI. You’re probably not either.
It helps. It saves time. It’s evolving fast.

But here’s where it stings a little:
Writing isn’t just typing words. It’s your lived experiences, your thoughts, your energy.

Your style? Your rhythm? That’s not something you code. It’s something you become.

And when our work fuels tools that others profit from — without asking us?
It starts to feel off.

It’s not about blame.
It’s about fairness.

Even Publishers Are Stepping Up

Large media houses are starting to push back.
Some are blocking AI bots. Others are pursuing legal action. A few are negotiating licenses.

They’re protecting their content.
But this isn’t just about big players.

It’s also about solo writers, indie creators, small teams… people like us.

What Does This Mean for You and Me?

Whether you write blogs, build brand content, or just share your thoughts online:

Your voice has value.
Your words carry weight.
And you deserve a say in how they’re used.

That’s it.

So… What Can We Do?

Here’s what I’ve started thinking about — and maybe it helps you too:

  • Use AI — but stay aware of how it’s trained.
  • Keep showing up with your voice. That still matters.
  • Ask questions. Talk about it. The more we speak up, the clearer it gets.

Because in a world filled with noise, real human stories still land the deepest.

If this sat with you for a second…
If you’ve ever paused and thought,
“Wait… that sounds a bit like me,”
You’re not imagining it.

You’re not alone, either.

Feel free to share your thoughts. Or just say hi.
And if you know a writer who’s been feeling this shift too, send this their way.

P.S.
I’ll be sharing more reflections on writing, AI, and what it means to create in today’s world.
If you’d like to stay in that loop, feel free to follow along here on Medium.

Let’s keep writing like we mean it. Together.

author avatar
Kavita Gulati
I am a writer, mother, and believer in the power of real, raw stories. I use words to create space for empathy, connection, and unfiltered conversations around life and parenthood. To make invisible feelings seen, one honest piece at a time.

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