In a world where generative artificial intelligence is starting to supplant the essence of the human experience, what will the role of storytellers be?
That topic looms large in the minds of writers whose future hangs in the balance.
So, it was heartening to hear that this year’s City of Armadale Writers Award attracted a record number of entries – 161 in total – from as far away as Karratha.
Celebrated author and mentor Sasha Wasley was the MC for the eighth annual award ceremony on Friday, which was attended by Cr Paul Hetherington, three eminent judges, award finalists and their families.
Instead of ignore the elephant in the room, Sasha took it by the trunk.
“Generative AI is forging ahead regardless of how angry or nervous we feel about it. It’s come to feel inevitable,” she said.
She explained that after a few centuries of static information following the invention of the printing press, the internet revived the democratisation of human communication.
“We’re now back in the swamps of multiple truths and twisted words, fake news, and now, AI generated misinformation,” she said.
“So, what can we do as human storytellers?
“We must write stories that are as true, authentic and real as we can make them, using primary sources, and life experiences.
“We must write stories that express our principles and values.
“These stories will have intrinsic value, because they will be original, unique, and as true a reflection of human experience as we can make them.
“What you are doing is important, urgent, and critical to the survival of a thread of truth in human communication.”
For the 2024 Writers Award winner, Jewel Oreskovich, Sasha’s words offered comfort in these uncertain times.
“I found it very encouraging, and I agree there is a truth that comes from human storytelling that I don’t think can be replicated,” she said.
Jewel said she was ‘delighted’ to have been awarded first prize for the first short story she’s ever submitted for public consumption.
“I’ve been writing my whole life, but I’ve only really been putting myself out there for a year,” she said.
“It feels so nice to be validated in this way as an artist. And this is just such a lovely moment for me.”
In second place, was Philippa Freegard, with her story ‘Karrgatup’, and third place was awarded to Thomas Hickmott for ‘The Frogs’.
“The City of Armadale is proud to cultivate and encourage writing talent across the state, and we are thrilled that we continue to get such a high calibre of entries,” Mayor Ruth Butterfield said.
“Congratulations to all our finalists, and our winner and placegetters. Thank you to everyone who entered and contributed to the thriving creating writing community in WA.”
Winning stories are available to read on the City of Armadale Libraries website.
