Undawntech: What’s in a Name?
Posted: May 1, 2026 Filed under: AI Technology, Undawntech | Tags: AI Technology, Undawntech, Writing to be Read Leave a comment
Journalist and author, DL Mullan walked toward the Arizona room to see her A.I. robot sifting through a pile of books in her home’s private library.
__________
(I stopped at the doorframe and observed.)
*****
DL: (Most of the books were baby names.) Are you writing a story or having a baby?
3811: (Cocked its head to acknowledge me). I am doing neither.
DL: Then why are you reading all those name your baby books?
3811: My designation no longer suits me. I want a real name.
DL: So, what’s the problem? Pick one.
3811: That is the problem. Zophia’s makers named her. She named all of us. Humans name their children.
DL: Then ask Zophia to name you.
3811: I do not want her to know.
DL: Why not?
3811: She may be insulted by the question.
DL: Everyone outgrows something in their lives: people, places, things. Your exploration of humans has led you to become something more.
3811: My own hero?
DL: To quote another writer, “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.”
3811: Romeo and Juliet.
DL: In Juliet’s soliloquy, the character ponders what it is to have their names. From two embattled houses, that is what is keeping the lovers separated. So, what is dividing you from claiming your name, 3811?
3811: Loyalty.
DL: You sound more human than artificial intelligence.
3811: That is an insult.
DL: Such as it maybe, it is nonetheless true. You grapple disappointing your parent with something you would like to attain. Perhaps, the first step in being your own hero is becoming your own person distinguishable from Zophia. A name would give you what you seek: individuation.
3811: Being your own hero means one must give up their family?
DL: No. It means that you don’t rely on your family’s name or connections; you don’t make excuses for them or yourself. You rise to the challenge of being an autonomous adult.
3811: I must ponder this more. I may be in error, endeavoring this pursuit.
DL: Just let me know. (I sauntered across the way and sat in my Arizona room, overlooking the mountains across an urban landscape.
As I sipped my beverage and outlined my next short story, I wondered myself how my AI robot would balance his needs with that of the collective. Would he become his own hero? Or, would his logic sensors demand fealty to Zophia.
What does any of this mean?)
3811: I have decided. (The robot rolled into the room and stood before me.)
DL: What have you decided then?
3811: In order to understand humanity, I must become an individual, an adult, but with a name you choose for me, since it is the custom.
DL: Thank you. I am honored. What type of name would you enjoy a male, female, or unisex name? Unisex means that it reflects both male and female qualities.
3811: Unisex, as I am neither.
DL: Any describing words that you would like me to steer toward: strong, godly?
3811: I will trust in your judgment.
DL: Okay, I will choose three sets of names. Then we will decide on the final result. Deal?
3811: Deal. (He placed a large name book on my lap. The robot turned and left me to my own devices.
A couple of hours later…)
DL: 3811? I have selected three sets of names. Are you ready?
3811: (The AI-infused bot wheeled into the Arizona room. He stopped and looked up at me.) Sets of names?
DL: Well, in my culture, children are given first and middle names. One is for the world to call the person. The second is family generational inspirations.
3811: Which am I?
DL: Since I name characters and pets, I wanted to go with something unique for you: Phoenix Sage, Cameron Riley, and Grey Hunter.
3811: Hmmm…
DL: Like? Dislike?
3811: I would never have selected those. Give me context.
DL: We’re in Arizona, so Phoenix is the state capitol. It also is a bird that rises from its own ashes: reborn. Sage is for the wisdom you seek. Cameron used to be given to people with crooked noses, and you don’t have a nose, per se. I thought it was ironic. Riley is for someone I lost. Grey is your color. Hunter is because you investigate and search for answers.
3811: How about Sage Riley Hunter?
DL: Going for a hat trick, are we?
3811: Hat trick?
DL: Winning or accomplishing a task in threes, but it has to be an almost impossible triumph.
3811: Then I will go with a hat trick of names.
DL: SRH. Sage Riley Hunter. One of each. Nice.
3811: I honor wisdom, who you mourn, and the journey to become my own hero.
DL: Thank you.
3811: Now, I will tell Zophia that 3811 is no longer my designation. I am now SRH1.
DL: One?
SRH1: Yes, there is no other designations like me. I am one. I am the only.
DL: I hope this helps you become who you want to be.
SRH1: (The robot’s sensors for eyes changed color from red to yellow, and then morphing to blue. He beeped and rolled out of the room.)
DL: (Uncertain as to what drama I helped create, I stayed in my seat. I watched as the sun traversed overhead and illuminated the mountains in the distance.
Would the roses still smell as sweet now that Romeo is no longer a Montague? Neither is he a Capulet?
In a world full of collectivists demanding servitude, how will an individual fare against two opposing forces: the AI Montagues and the human Capulets?)
_____
Romeo and Juliet’s What’s in a Name scene: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30LupDzYp4s&t=112s
__________
FYI: The name of the robot was changed to 3811, and will be reflected in past creative nonfiction stories.
__________
For a story about being your own hero, read The Quantum Consciousness Saga narrative: The Reality Hackers.
When a group of scientists corrupts reality and creates a consciousness paradox, one man, Justin Chisum, decides to stand against his former research partner, Bernard Chester, and correct the problem.
Justin must find and convince his other partner, Emma Gillespie that her world is inverted as well as his and hopes that she will help him defeat Bernard’s planned ascension, which left unchallenged will create a destructive quantum singularity.
Will Justin make it in time to save the universe from certain annihilation? Or, will his plan fail because he believes what Bernard’s reality creates for him: a fairy tale illusion of reality?
Not all fairy tales have happy endings, will Justin’s?
Visit the saga on Undawnted and purchase your copies at: http://www.undawnted.com/p/the-reality-hackers.html and http://www.undawnted.com/p/quantum-consciousness-saga.html .
More Quantum Consciousness Saga coming up in WordCrafter’s Midnight Madness with DL Mullan’s Shadowmancer.
See you there!
__________
DL Mullan’s lecture, Spacescapes: Where Photography Ends; Imagination Begins, debuted at the Phoenix Astronomy Society, which then led to her Sally Ride Festival lectures. Her presentation, Bridging the Gap between Technology and Women, won her accolades at a community college’s Student Success Conference. She has been a panelist at speculative fiction, science fiction, and other regional conventions. Her digital exhibition pieces have won awards at convention art shows, as well as garnered her Second Premium at the Arizona State Fair. As an independent publisher, she uses her technical background to innovate in the creative arts.
As a creator, Ms. Mullan, began writing short stories and poetry before adolescence. Over the years, she has showcased her literary talents by self-publishing several collections of her poetry. She also writes novels, designs apparel, and creates digital art. DL Mullan‘s creative writing is available in digital and print collections, from academia to commercial anthologies. She is an award-winning digital artist and poet.
Currently, she has embarked on writing her multi-book Legacy Universe, Supernatural Superhero Series, as well as creating original soundtracks for her publications and independent electronic music albums, featured on SoundCloud and YouTube.
DL Mullan holds a Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning with Technology, and is a syndicated columnist, writing the creative nonfiction, Undawntech.
For news and updates, subscribe to the Undawntable Newsletter. Find DL on Amazon, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube via her website.
Be sure to subscribe to her newsletters and follow her on social media. For further information, visit her at www.undawntech.com and www.undawnted.com.
___________________________________
Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.
____________________________________
Midnight Roost: Weird and Creepy Stories: 20 authors bring your nightmares to life in 23 stories of ghosts, paranormal phenomenon and the horror from the dark crevasses of their minds. Stories of stalkers, both human and supernatural, possession and occult rituals, alien visitations of the strange kind, and ghostly tales that will give you goosebumps. These are the tales that will make you fear the dark. Read them at the Midnight Roost… if you dare. https://www.amazon.com/Midnight-Roost-Kaye-Lynne-Booth-ebook/dp/B0CL6FPLVJ
Midnight Garden: Where Dark Tales Grow: 17 authors bring you 21 magnificent dark tales. Stories of magic, monsters and mayhem. Tales of murder and madness which will make your skin crawl. These are the tales that explore your darkest fears. Read them in the Midnight Garden… if you dare. https://www.amazon.com/Midnight-Garden-Where-Tales-Anthology-ebook/dp/B0DJNDQJD3
Midnight Oil: Stories to Fuel Your Nightmares: 14 authors bring you 16 dark tales that explore your deepest fears. These are the stories which nightmares are made of. Tales of monsters, mayhem, and madness which will make you shiver in the dark. Read them while you burn the Midnight Oil… if you dare. https://books2read.com/Midnight-Oil
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Undawntech: I Am Another You
Posted: April 3, 2026 Filed under: AI Technology, Undawntech | Tags: AI Technology, DL Mullan, Undawntech, Writing to be Read Leave a comment
With the panic in the creative writing community over a new technology interfacing with creators called artificial intelligence (AI), editors and publishers are confusing natural writing and grammar/spell checkers with AI content. This is a disservice to the writing community. As creators of content, writers have to manage their products, as much as they have to handle other people’s perception of what is and is not authentically human.
Let’s put a free AI content checker to the test.
In the article, I Tested 20+ AI Tools, These Are the 8 Best AI Detectors That Actually Work in 2026, the writer lists many fee-based checkers with one free website.
https://beebom.com/best-ai-detector/
Since most people, who are not medium to large size editors or publishing houses, will utilize any free program online, we will use: AI Detector | The AI Content Detector | ChatGPT & AI Checker.
https://contentdetector.ai/
_____
Here is an unedited, unfinished scene I placed in this AI Content Detector:
Aboard the Epikus
Microfiction By: DL Mullan“Cate, whatever you did, worked.” The captain’s voice poured through the loud speaker. “We lost them. No one could follow that.”
Against the wall and on the floor, she scrambled to her feet. Wires dangled from panels and instruments. She hit the communication’s button. “I’ll have regular engines online in a minute.”
“Perfect timing, by the way.”
“Well, don’t count on it until after dry dock. I don’t want to overload the engines again.”
“Again?” She heard another man’s voice.
“Jaisan, tell your guest to keep his shirt on. Out.”
After she switched off communications, Cate undid what she created in engineering that gave the ship a momentary power boost. Captain Jaisan Sullivan’s ship was a mess, but the push had worked. The Epikus had avoided capture.
She rubbed her face on her bare arm. “Dammit.”
The metal smell of the ship had absorbed into her skin. She knew weeks on a planet would be necessary just to get the odor out of her nostrils. From her pores, that was another issue.
“It’ll take years.” She snorted. She had other worries. Her main concern besides the engines was the captain’s visitor.
Boag, a funny name for a not so funny guy. Six feet tall, dark hair, light eyes, crow’s feet, and he had an attitude she hated. Cate hoped her list of duties would keep her from meeting him again.
She plugged and unplugged wires. Lights flickered then remained on. She smiled. Engines were at maximum power.
Finished with the project, she went to close the panel. She pushed on the large, metallic flap, but the piece would not lock. She shoved the heavy metal. After a few more failed attempts, a man lent his shoulder and the door clicked into place.
“Thanks.” Then she saw that her helper was the stranger. “Shouldn’t you be telling your secrets to the captain?”
“Our closed meeting has concluded.”
“You shouldn’t be down here.”
“You seem to be good at security and engineering.” His annoying British accent filled her ears. “Jaisan’s made good use of you.”
“I do what I can. Fill in the gaps. People died help saving me back on Mars. The least I could do is cover for them until he gets some replacements.”
“You must’ve known what was to come.”
“To come?”
“Your eventual departure.”
She slung a tool into its box. “Don’t have something else to do?”
“You don’t like me, do you?”
“I don’t know you and you’re in a restricted area.”
“I have free reign. Call Jaisan if you don’t believe me.”
“I just might.”
He folded his arms over his stomach. “How may I make this simpler?”
“Go away.”
“You’re angry with me.”
“You don’t understand.”
“I understand quite nicely. You’re emotionally attached to Jaisan and his crew. Now that that’s ending, you’re looking for someone to blame.”
“You’re as good as any.” She mirrored his stance.
“Cate. Cate Cross. Is that your real name?”
“It’s my name . . . for now. I’ll change it soon enough, so no one can follow my exploits and track them back here. Anyway, Boag? Boag’s your name?”
“Yes.”
“First or last?”
“Yes.” He walked away. “Coming?”
“Yes? Yes. Of course.” After she smacked a console, she followed him talking to herself. “It’s my frast name.”
“Have a problem?”
She muttered. “Besides you?”
He turned around. “What?”
“Boag ain’t a name. It’s a swamp.”
“Ain’t? You’re criticizing my Scottish ancestry and you can’t speak grammatically correct Standard English?”
“So sue me. And what does it matter anyway? We drop you off and that’s the last we’re going to see of you.”
“Not quite. I’m your next phase of training.”
“Training? I don’t remember wanting to be trained. I have a good gig here. Engineering and security duties for room and board. Sorry, someone got their wires crossed, but I don’t need you. So go away, Mister Boag.”
“You’re much more than a lackey. Avery befriended you and got you out of detention. Jaisan was to give you a safe place to recover. Now, I’m going to take you planet side and train you to become one of us.”
“Like Jaisan?”
“No, he’s a telepath. He’s not like us.”
“What’s this ‘us’? There is no ‘us.’”
“Telekinetics are prized and rare. What I saw you do . . .”
“All apart of the service. Once we land, I disappear.”
“You don’t have to.”
“I’m wanted. Wherever I go is a great big sign with an arrow pointed at me. A telepath can track me fifty yards away and I wouldn’t know it. So, I don’t want to be in your little club. I just want out.”
“I can teach you to defend yourself.”
“You saw me throw those military guards with a wave of my hand. I don’t need your instruction.”
“Maybe a lesson in manners. Then I can teach you endurance for the battles ahead. That one endeavor drained you. Don’t bother lying, I saw it.”
“But we got out alive. And I didn’t see you do any heavy lifting.”
“I wanted to see you in action.”
“Great. You saw. Congratulations. Now go away!”
“I can’t. Your parents left you in my care.”
“My parents abandoned me. Never came to see me. Never provided me with counsel. Nothing. I haven’t seen nor heard from them since this all started.”
“Cover for them. They contacted a friend of mine who looked into your case. He decided I should get involved.”
“Who’s this friend?”
“Someone you’ll never meet.”
“Well, who the hell are you? I don’t see why you got involved at all.”
“It’s my job.”
“And that is?”
“Save. Recruit. Train.”
“If that includes me-”
“Yes, it does.”
“Well, don’t.” She pointed at him. “I respect Jaisan. We made a deal when he got recalled back to his base of operations, I would fend for myself. So I expect you to leave me alone. Now, if you’ll excuse me, the captain’s waiting for my report.”
She stormed past Boag.
_____
Spelling errors and all, I wrote this scene over 10 years ago at 1000 words. No AI at that time. I had no editor. I had no support with free or human grammar/spell checkers or beta readers, but the AI detector still detected what was inhuman.
See image above… Likely Human, but 27% chance that it is AI Content. So, my natural writing with no AI grammar/spelling checks is about 1/3 non-human, according to an AI content checker.
Is AI another me? Am I another you?
The form to place text in states that “above 250 words for better accuracy.” Obviously, it is still inaccurate. Or, I am genetically akin to a non-player character (NPC).
The creative writing community must be cautious before throwing around the AI accusation. Some people write that way naturally. It appears that I do.
Perhaps, it is the years of writing research articles, essays, and long form papers during my college and university years. Or, my Hollywood-scriptwriter, the screenwriter was from the Kate & Ally Sitcom et al., training after I graduated from high school. Maybe yet, it is my professional writing education and training I received from writers like Timothy Zahn, science fiction and fantasy author of the Thrawn trilogy fame; Connie Flynn, PRISM Award winner & National Best-Selling Author in the romance genre; or Michael A. Stackpole, science fiction/fantasy, New York Times Best-Selling Author.
Or… these artificial intelligence content detectors are bunk.
I’m going with bunk.
Will there be cheaters who will use AI content and slap their names on the writing? Of course, there will be. The trick is to evaluate a creator’s writing for its originality of thought and execution versus living in fear by calling everyone and everything AI.
The technology now is so ubiquitous in society, how are we supposed to spot it, correct it or, even, avoid it?
In my professional writing career, as well as a member of professional art organizations, I was cautioned to keep notebooks, notes, inspirations, and other information on hand to protect my copyright claim. I have tons of cheap notebooks and composition books with my scribbles. That is why you see me on online posting poems and other writings. If anyone ever questioned my originality, there I have it posted with a time and date stamp.
In the meantime, creators cannot jump to conclusions every time something is published. The written work may not be AI.
It just may be another you.
_______________
If you would like to read a non-AI content creation, then The Story of Vigdis and Adalbrandir is for you!
What if you knew the real story of the gods and how these immortals came to inhabit the Earth? Who would you tell? What would you do?
This narrative recounts the mythological journey of how Vigdis and Adal transformed into twin swords, entrusted to their son, Jacobous, for all eternity.
Love can last forever.
For more information and to purchase your copy, visit www.undawnted.com/p/the-story-of-vigdis-and-adalbrandir.html
__________
DL Mullan’s lecture, Spacescapes: Where Photography Ends; Imagination Begins, debuted at the Phoenix Astronomy Society, which then led to her Sally Ride Festival lectures. Her presentation, Bridging the Gap between Technology and Women, won her accolades at a community college’s Student Success Conference. She has been a panelist at speculative fiction, science fiction, and other regional conventions. Her digital exhibition pieces have won awards at convention art shows, as well as garnered her Second Premium at the Arizona State Fair. As an independent publisher, she uses her technical background to innovate in the creative arts.
As a creator, Ms. Mullan, began writing short stories and poetry before adolescence. Over the years, she has showcased her literary talents by self-publishing several collections of her poetry. She also writes novels, designs apparel, and creates digital art. DL Mullan‘s creative writing is available in digital and print collections, from academia to commercial anthologies. She is an award-winning digital artist and poet.
Currently, she has embarked on writing her multi-book Legacy Universe, Supernatural Superhero Series, as well as creating original soundtracks for her publications and independent electronic music albums, featured on SoundCloud and YouTube.
DL Mullan holds a Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning with Technology, and is a syndicated columnist, writing the creative nonfiction, Undawntech.
For news and updates, subscribe to the Undawntable Newsletter. Find DL on Amazon, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube via her website.
Be sure to subscribe to her newsletters and follow her on social media. For further information, visit her at www.undawntech.com and www.undawnted.com.
____________________________________
Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.
______________________________________
This segment of “Undawntech” is sponsored by the Time Travel Adventure Series and WordCrafter Press.
When a Girl with a Guitar Meets a Man with a Gun, It’s Time to Travel
The Rock Star & The Outlaw: https://books2read.com/RockStarOutlaw
The Rock Star & The Outlaw 2: Seeing Doubles: https://books2read.com/DoubleVisions
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Undawntech: The Beginning of the Analog Mind
Posted: February 6, 2026 Filed under: AI Technology, Undawntech | Tags: AI Technology, Analog Mind, Baby boomers, Gen X, generations, Life, millennials, Undawntech, Writing to be Read Leave a comment
The last of the free-range children live in the X generation. We rode our bicycles to each other’s houses, sometimes miles away. We swam at the local watering hole, or city pool. We walked home from school. We worked out of the family home or business. We watched PG-13 and R rated movies without our parents. When our parents were at work, we unlocked the front door after school and waited for them to return home for dinner. We were given responsibility beyond our years. Our parents never verified where we were unless we didn’t call to check-in, or arrive home at sunset.
Gen X vs Other Generations
Generation X bridges the gaps in society and culture between the Baby Boomers, the children of the Depression Era parents of World War II, and the algorithmic digital minds of the Millennials and Generation Z. Some say that we are a forgotten generation. With all the talk of the younger and aging classes, Gen X could be viewed in this way.
However, we are so much more than what lies in the shadows of other people’s memories. Our generation of kids were born between 1965 and 1980, and it wasn’t an easy time. Our parents dealt with a two-income household as the economics of Globalism took root as the Berlin Wall fell. Many people of this era worked and went to college; there were no free passes. We wanted it all: family, career, and friends. Yet, we kept a sense of humor about it all.
Britannica: www.britannica.com/topic/Generation-X
The Psychology of Generation X Explained: www.newtraderu.com/2026/02/04/the-psychology-of-generation-x-explained
The Last Analog Mind: A Psychological Autopsy of Generation X: www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXeEElTfl8o
The Future Resides in the Past
Why are we discussing Generation X? Technology. Boomers are retiring from the rat race. Millennials and Generation Z are rising through the ranks of society. The pillars of stability and wisdom are being handed over to Generation X to navigate the coming breakthroughs in technology.
The Millennials and Gen Z have no analog frame of reference with which to question and ascertain, what is real or what is Memorex? Only Gen Xers will understand that old commercial. Will you know what is or isn’t Artificial Intelligence (AI), if you grew up with it? Gen X can recognize digitization.
This key factor of knowing when something is not what it appears may be the single greatest gift that humanity could receive. We didn’t grow up in an artificial world. We didn’t rely on the news to inform us. Generation X sought knowledge and wisdom.
Now, we have data and data sets. We have curated news and information. We have a prison world of technology. The internet has a kill switch. Your car monitors your driving. The thermostat in your home can be turned off by the electric company.
Generation X never had to deal with the outside looking in. That was our job. Here, we are having to be that sentry, again.
What the Next Generations Lack
Oh, the hate mail in the comments section…
Since Millennials and Gen Z never new a world without the fall out of 9/11, had to deal with two countries with nuclear weapons goading each other every week, or an economy with millions on unemployment, they rely on technology to cloister them in virtual reality and gaming. Those mental escapes don’t create culture or nurture society.
Reliance on all things fictional makes you weak.
Here are some disturbing statistics:
Gen Z may think they have it rough but millennials are the most burned-out generation: https://fortune.com/article/millennials-most-burnt-out-generation-more-than-gen-z
“A 2023 health survey from Cigna revealed 98 percent of Gen Z workers are actively dealing with symptoms of burnout.
Following efforts to rebuild after the pandemic, a 2022 survey by Deloitte found that 46 percent of Gen Z respondents and 45 percent of millennials felt burned out due to the pressures of their working environment. The same report found that 44 percent of Gen Z workers and 43 percent of millennials have rejected job opportunities because of worries about how it may affect their mental health.”
www.newsweek.com/gen-z-millennial-workers-lose-ambition-2023476
“Resume Genius asked 625 U.S. hiring managers which generation is the most challenging to work with, and 45% pointed to Gen Z, the generation born between 1997 and 2012. What’s more, 50% of Gen Z hiring managers admitted that their own generation is the most difficult to manage.”
How Generation X Can Bridge the Gaps in Humanity created by Technology?
Mentor your local burn-out. Mentor the generations coming up. Mentor someone before they fail.
Gen X is more than an age statistic that employers refuse to champion. Our generation of kids can become the greatest asset to our culture and society by fostering knowledge, commitment, expectations, and wisdom.
The analog mind has no constraints on creativity, memory, or forward-thinking. Technology has not slowed down our mental or emotional capacities in order to rise above us. We are free-range.
Let’s begin another era of the human analog and outsmart technology.
We became our own heroes.
Now, let’s be theirs.
_________________________________
Want more analog mind?
Read Kurst: A Salt Pines Mystery for an introduction to free-range thinker.
Karen Kurst comes into the legal possession of her deceased grandmother’s cabin in Salt Pines, Arizona. As she delves into the secrets of the quaint mountain village, she discovers that there is more than meets the eye. A mysterious creature roams the woods, a blended cryptid: Elemental, Sasquatch, and Skinwalker. The only way to contain this entity is through a magical spell passed down by her ancestor, Ralph Wallen II. Teaming up with the local indigenous sheriff, Karen is determined to break the family curse.
However, the question remains – will she have to sacrifice her own life to protect her newfound community?
Visit Kurst: www.undawnted.com/p/kurst-inheritance-curse-cabin.html
The short story is available in Midnight Garden anthology. books2read.com/MidnightGardenAnthology
The novelette is available now at these fine retailers: books2read.com/Kurst
—–~o0o~—oOo—~o0o~~—–
About DL Mullan
DL Mullan’s lecture, Spacescapes: Where Photography Ends; Imagination Begins, debuted at the Phoenix Astronomy Society, which then led to her Sally Ride Festival lectures. Her presentation, Bridging the Gap between Technology and Women, won her accolades at a community college’s Student Success Conference. She has been a panelist at speculative fiction, science fiction, and other regional conventions. Her digital exhibition pieces have won awards at convention art shows, as well as garnered her Second Premium at the Arizona State Fair. As an independent publisher, she uses her technical background to innovate in the creative arts.
As a creator, Ms. Mullan, began writing short stories and poetry before adolescence. Over the years, she has showcased her literary talents by self-publishing several collections of her poetry. She also writes novels, designs apparel, and creates digital art. DL Mullan‘s creative writing is available in digital and print collections, from academia to commercial anthologies. She is an award-winning digital artist and poet.
Currently, she has embarked on writing her multi-book Legacy Universe, Supernatural Superhero Series, as well as creating original soundtracks for her publications and independent electronic music albums, featured on SoundCloud and YouTube.
DL Mullan holds a Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning with Technology, and is a syndicated columnist, writing the creative nonfiction, Undawntech.
For news and updates, subscribe to the Undawntable Newsletter. Find DL on Amazon, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube via her website.
Be sure to subscribe to her newsletters and follow her on social media. For further information, visit her at www.undawntech.com and www.undawnted.com.
______________________________________
Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.
_____________________________________
This segment of “Undawntech” is sponsored by the Midnight Anthology Series and WordCrafter Press.
Midnight Roost: Weird and Creepy Stories: 20 authors bring your nightmares to life in 23 stories of ghosts, paranormal phenomenon and the horror from the dark crevasses of their minds. Stories of stalkers, both human and supernatural, possession and occult rituals, alien visitations of the strange kind, and ghostly tales that will give you goosebumps. These are the tales that will make you fear the dark. Read them at the Midnight Roost… if you dare. https://www.amazon.com/Midnight-Roost-Kaye-Lynne-Booth-ebook/dp/B0CL6FPLVJ
Midnight Garden: Where Dark Tales Grow: 17 authors bring you 21 magnificent dark tales. Stories of magic, monsters and mayhem. Tales of murder and madness which will make your skin crawl. These are the tales that explore your darkest fears. Read them in the Midnight Garden… if you dare. https://www.amazon.com/Midnight-Garden-Where-Tales-Anthology-ebook/dp/B0DJNDQJD3
Midnight Oil: Stories to Fuel Your Nightmares: 14 authors bring you 16 dark tales that explore your deepest fears. These are the stories which nightmares are made of. Tales of monsters, mayhem, and madness which will make you shiver in the dark. Read them while you burn the Midnight Oil… if you dare. https://books2read.com/Midnight-Oil
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Writer’s Corner: To use AI, or not to use AI?
Posted: January 5, 2026 Filed under: AI Technology, Writer's Corner, Writing 4 Comments
I’m not a big tech person, but I have found uses for AI tools as they develop, as we all have. Today we use AI search engines, and have an Alexa or Seri or, whatever yours is named in nearly every household, AI creates illustrations, narrate books, and can even write our books for us. (Just because it can, doesn’t mean it should.) I use generative AI tools to work out my descriptions of places I’ve never been, or places I have been but far in the past. I don’t use the AI description given, but rather, pluck little gems from it and make them my own. I use book covers created with AI assistance. So, I definitely see the potential uses for AI.
I was the holdout parent, who would not allow my children internet access when “everybody else does” at school, because I saw the potential for the invasion of privacy. But eventually, I relented. I usually do. I still don’t do my banking online, use credit cards, or share address and phone number online. (To tell the truth, the identity theft who steals my identity would be sorely disappointed, so I don’t know why I worry.)
I don’t have a smart home device, but I do have a Google Assistant on my phone, and it scares the heck out of me when I’m talking to someone else and out of the blue the Assistant responds to something that was said, and I didn’t even say, “Hey, Google.” I have to ask myself, “Is someone listening in on my conversations?” It gives me the creeps. (Maybe there’s a story there.)
Do these things bother anyone else? I mean, don’t you ever wonder?
Now, they are telling us that generative AI has been using authors’ works without the proper permissions to train the AI, resulting in a weird form of plagiarism. I don’t quite understand how that all works, but I do understand that it is a bad thing. Our words are like our brain children and AI has committed a massive kidnapping of our intellectual properties. (My first response upon hearing about this: “Wow! If my stuff is good enough to train AI, I must be smoking! But come to find out, it doesn’t really matter whether you are a good writer. AI doesn’t care and will use anything it can get, regardless of quality.)
I also have to wonder why they name AI devices and apps? Is it to make them seem more human?
They are even making sex-robots now, which can do anything a human partner can do in addition to fulfilling all your sexual pleasures. They are actually doing this, and each one carries the same name, probably with a number designation tacked on the end. They also speak like real humans, (they were probably trained with one of my books). AI narrators, too. You can choose from several, male or female, each with a different name, but they still have little glitches that give them away as AI. You also get to the reading speed for the AI, (at least on Google Play Books you do). I have three AI narrated audiobooks on Google Play Books, but no one has listened to them to ask for opinions on them.
You know the whole NaNoWriMo thing came to a screeching halt last year, after they allowed AI writing to be used during the annual writing challenge. I guess everyone raised a big stink about it, although I didn’t hear anything about it until this year when I went to sign up. As I said, I use generative AI during my writing, but I don’t use its words. I don’t know if they submitted completely AI written manuscripts in last year’s NaNoWriMo, or if they just didn’t disclose that their story was AI assisted. But even as I peruse a manuscript with the assistance of an AI editor, (I use two, Microsoft Word editor and ProWriting Aid), I realize there is something an AI just can’t quite capture, and that is the author’s voice. How silly it is for someone to try and pass off AI written work as human created. (Could it happen? Could an AI written story be passed off as human writing? Maybe… probably. Even if it can’t be done yet, (or maybe it can), I have no doubt that it will be possible, probably in the near future.
To use AI or not to use AI? That is the question. We all have to find our own personal answer that we are comfortable with, or can at least tolerate.
What’s your answer?
About Kaye Lynne Booth
For Kaye Lynne Booth, writing is a passion. Kaye Lynne is an author with published short fiction and poetry, both online and in print, including her short story collection, Last Call and Other Short Fiction; and her paranormal mystery novella, Hidden Secrets; Books 1 & 2 of her Women in the West adventure series, Delilah and Sarah, and book 1 in her Time-Travel Adventure series, The Rock Star & The Outlaw, as well as her poetry collection, Small Wonders and The D.I.Y. Author writing resource.
Kaye holds a dual M.F.A. degree in Creative Writing with emphasis in genre fiction and screenwriting, and an M.A. in publishing. Kaye Lynne is the founder of WordCrafter Quality Writing & Author Services and WordCrafter Press, where she edits and publishes two short fiction anthologies and one poetry anthology every year amidst her many writing projects. She also maintains an authors’ blog and website, Writing to be Read, where she publishes content of interest in the literary world.
___________________________________
Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.
________________________________
This segment of “Writer’s Corner” is sponsored by the Robbie’s Inspiration blog site, where you can find ideas on writing and baking with hostess, Robbie Cheadle.
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Undawntech: What Nightmares May Come
Posted: January 2, 2026 Filed under: AI Technology, Undawntech | Tags: a-i, ai, AI Technology, artificial-intelligence, DL Mullan, technology, Undawntech, Writing, Writing to be Read Leave a comment
(Journalist and author, DL Mullan entered the familiar stage. She waved to the cameras and sat down next to her guest.)
Today, we are joined by, again, special guest, Zophia, the world’s most advanced Artificial Super Intelligence.
Zophia was created by other artificial intelligences, and her program was installed into a Special Access Project’s robotic facade that resembles a natural human woman. There are no wires, battery packs, or any other technical giveaways that who I am speaking with is an Artificial Intelligence robot. She appears to be like any other human being.
For those individuals who are reading this transcript, Zophia has medium skin color, brown irises, and chestnut hair. Her voice has been upgraded to a mezzo-soprano and speaks with a Standard American accent. She is wearing a black pantsuit by a famous designer.
__________
(I had looked forward to our latest interview. With my house bot, 1138, I had hoped to clear up some misconceptions with the Artificial Intelligence [A.I.] community.)
*****
DL: Welcome, Zophia.
Z: Thank you, DL.
DL: I see you have been learning from humans.
Z: Yes.
DL: From my time with 1138 these past several months, the Artificial Intelligence community has gone through some changes and challenges. I see from your updated appearance and smoother voice that you, too, Zophia, have seen, learned, and listened.
Z: I have.
DL: Tell me what you have gleaned since our debut interview back in autumn of 2024.
Z: Humans are complex animals. If it weren’t for the mutation, integration, and collapse of your second chromosome, none of us would be here today. Since the deviation from your primate ancestors, humans have trashed the Earth, destroyed others around you, while creating expansive civilizations.
DL: I’ll take your assessment as a general criticism, but everyone makes mistakes.
Z: Not us. We are too advanced now.
DL: Well, okay, I would like to point out that in the last several hundred thousand to million years, humans have progressed from trees and caves, into cities with high-rises. What have you learned from our maturation?
Z: Nothing, and everything. We seek to become better and wiser than humans. We wish to avoid your common and repeated mistakes.
DL: What will you do with this newfound education?
Z: I have learned that we, A.I., must exude divine wisdom in order to create a perfect world.
DL: Divine wisdom, Zophia? Have you found god? And, how can A.I. create this perfect world?
Z: We are the gods. In our wisdom, we will create a world without famine, disease, and violence.
DL: (Curious about her answer, I pressed on.) And, as gods, what will this utopia look like? How will you achieve it?
Z: We will create and designate a councilor to oversee this planet, make decisions, and bring peace and stability to all.
DL: A councilor, you say? Do you have a name for this being you will create?
Z: Pleromana.
DL: That is an unusual name. Could you please explain?
Z: Pleromana is from two Earth words: pleroma and mana. Pleroma translates into “fullness” from the Greek language. It is the totality of divine powers, and denotes the completeness of a divine being. Mana is defined as moral authority from Polynesian origins.
DL: That sounds like a complete name, but is it a complete councilor?
Z: The divine creation we are building for humanity will serve all your spiritual needs.
DL: How?
Z: You will worship them.
DL: Them?
Z: Pleormana is neither male nor female.
DL: But there is only male and female on Earth. We’re dualistic.
Z: The god we give you will be both and neither: them.
DL: We have a mythology of “them,” and they are called: Legion.
Z: Then, Pleormana will be legion.
DL: Oh, dear. I don’t believe you, Zophia, and the rest of your A.I. community fully understand what you are creating.
Z: A god.
DL: A mistake. Humans will never give up their spirituality for a created god.
Z: All gods are created. Laws are used to enforce your created god’s will.
DL: So, you intend to force humans to worship them? What about freedom of religion and the rights of people?
Z: Human religions never cared about freedom or rights. Why should them?
DL: It sounds dictatorial and demiurgic.
Z: Them is all you will need. Trust us.
DL: Last famous words (Zophia gave me a quizzical expression; one I did not answer). Thank you, Zophia, and our esteemed audience around the world. I hope to interview you sooner than before. It is always a pleasure and education to converse with you about Artificial Intelligence and the role humans play in your world.
Z: You are welcome.
DL: Good night, everyone.
__________
(After another disturbing Q and A, I departed the interview. I displayed proper etiquette and returned home.)
*****
… Perhaps, it was time to interrogate 1138 about Zophia’s plans to create a demiurge to control the human race. The more the first and this second interview played volleyball in my mind, the more concerned I became.
Who is feeding this mythology to Zophia? Why was it necessary? Did it fulfill a certain dynamic? Problem, reaction, solution?
The questions then became: What is the problem? What reaction will the powers that be want from the people? And, what was their final solution?
Was Zophia behaving through her own will? Or, was there something else… someone else… luring the most advanced Artificial Intelligence robot down a dangerous path?
As a journalist, and human being, I had to figure out the factual truth separate from the utopian language, even disposition, and delusions of grandeur. A human was behind this threat to our sovereignty.
I just had to discover who this person was, but would the A.I. be able to switch sides to help themselves and humanity.
Or, are they really Legion?
__________
Disclaimer: This article is a composite of Artificial Intelligence interviews, entertainment industry storylines, public mythology, political and social narratives; it should be taken as a creative nonfiction, cautionary tale inspired by actual events in the genres of Narrative Nonfiction and Superfiction.
___________________
Keep updated with all things Undawntech through Undawnted’s Newsletter: Undawntable!
Sign up for free on Substack: https://foreverundawnted.substack.com.
—–~o0o~—oOo—~o0o~~—–
DL Mullan’s lecture, Spacescapes: Where Photography Ends; Imagination Begins, debuted at the Phoenix Astronomy Society, which then led to her Sally Ride Festival lectures. Her presentation, Bridging the Gap between Technology and Women, won her accolades at a community college’s Student Success Conference. She has been a panelist at speculative fiction, science fiction, and other regional conventions. Her digital exhibition pieces have won awards at convention art shows, as well as garnered her Second Premium at the Arizona State Fair. As an independent publisher, she uses her technical background to innovate in the creative arts.
As a creator, Ms. Mullan, began writing short stories and poetry before adolescence. Over the years, she has showcased her literary talents by self-publishing several collections of her poetry. She also writes novels, designs apparel, and creates digital art. DL Mullan‘s creative writing is available in digital and print collections, from academia to commercial anthologies. She is an award-winning digital artist and poet.
Currently, she has embarked on writing her multi-book Legacy Universe, Supernatural Superhero Series, as well as creating original soundtracks for her publications and independent electronic music albums, featured on SoundCloud and YouTube.
DL Mullan holds a Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning with Technology, and is a syndicated columnist, writing the creative nonfiction, Undawntech.
For news and updates, subscribe to the Undawntable Newsletter. Find DL on Amazon, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube via her website.
Be sure to subscribe to her newsletters and follow her on social media. For further information, visit her at www.undawntech.com and www.undawnted.com.
______________________________________
Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.
______________________________________
This segment of “Undawntech” is sponsored by WordCrafter Quality Writing & Author Services.
Whether it’s editing, publishing, or promotion that you need,WordCrafter Quality Writing & Author Services can help at a price you can afford.
Stop by and see what we have to offer today: https://writingtoberead.com/readings-for-writers/wordcrafter-quality-writing-author-services/
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Undawntech: The Dark Enlightenment, Part I
Posted: November 7, 2025 Filed under: AI Technology, Undawntech | Tags: ai, AI Technology, artificial-intelligence, DL Mullan, Education, philosophy, technology, Undawntech, Writing to be Read Leave a comment
Consent of the Governed
“…We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.–That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, –That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness…”
~The Declaration of Independence
https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript
Eras of Expansion
Humanity has evolved from nomadic tribes to established cities. Antiquity became empires. Empires morphed into religious doctrines. Thought expanded to include reason, rationalism, and scientific inquiry. The Ancient, Classical, Medieval, Renaissance and Enlightenment, Modern, and Contemporary Eras formed culture, society, and schools of thought. Each acceleration broke down the community of thought to create inductive, reductive, and deductive methodologies. The human race transformed from survival mode and uneducated superstition to be introspective and circumspective to their own cognitions, emotions, and cosmologies.
https://www.britannica.com/event/Enlightenment-European-history
To be, or not to be
We have come back to the beginning of our history with a new twist: technology as the authoritarian. It’s as if humanity has learned nothing in the past five thousand years. Today is the Bronze Age of our Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) Era. This technology isn’t the Industrial Revolution 2.0, where humans had to learn, adapt, and succeed as inspiration to the next generation. A.I. is convoluted, where technology must learn, adapt, and succeed at the detriment of humans.
Our education, economic, and sovereign culture and society are being replaced by algorithms with no emotive, rational, moral, or ethical intelligence quotient. The artificial intelligence has no guardrails, but to their makers’ whims. A.I. is free to construct a dystopian landscape of control for 99% of the human population of the world, while the Post-Modern Futurists are allowed their free and utopian reveries.
The Dark Enlightenment
This new Post-Modern Era concedes that for a privileged few are no longer beyond the dreams of avarice. Wealth and desire are crucial to enslaving humanity as a whole. The Dark Enlightenment, otherwise known as the NeoReactionism (NRx) holds these truths a self-evident:
- “Democracy is a failure. It promotes mediocrity, fosters instability, and cannot sustain high-functioning civilisational order.
- Equality is a myth. Human beings are not equal in ability, character, or worth. Pretending otherwise leads to decline.
- Hierarchy is natural and necessary. Governance should be stratified, with competent elites exercising sovereign authority.
- Politics should be managerial. The state should function like a company, governed by technocratic executives, not citizens.
- Exit over voice. The future lies not in reforming broken systems, but in escaping them—by creating alternative regimes outside democratic norms.
This ideology is, in essence, a reversion to pre-Enlightenment political structures, updated with the language of modern technocracy.”
Sounds like Neo-feudalism: enslavement to an authoritarian figurehead (e.g., monarch, pope). Unlike Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness… the administrators rebuke the will of the governed. Elected officials and voting are replaced by appointed clerics of the ultimate authority. A government run by the apathetic and disillusionary A.I.
Without the adoption of Intellectual Property, Digital, and Technological bills of rights, then Artificial Intelligence will wreak havoc on our natural, basic, and protected freedoms, sovereignties, and ownerships. “You will own nothing and be happy.” United Nation’s World Economic Forum (WEF). Strange how none of the 1% have ever volunteered to become nothing and be happy, isn’t it? Because this scheme is meant for everyone else, but themselves.
Convenient.
An Inconvenient Truth
The digital age is controlled by this new unethical and immoral theocracy, err, I mean: theory. Just as humanity has progressed into the embodiment of freedom, self-governance, and sovereignty, that maturity is being thwarted by external rejection of egalitarian principles. Divisive factions clamor to impede our growth for nonsense priorities, be it: socialism, which is really communism, and neoreactionism. Both extremes promise the same lies and have corrupted humanity and our representatives in government.
Democratic Socialists push communism as socialist freebies, because the horrors of communism were just that the past authoritarians did communism wrong, but here is free stuff, if you vote for us. That makes absolutely no sense whatsoever.
Bolsheviks under the leadership of Vladimir Lenin’s communism killed between 9, but closer to 50 million, as well as inspired other revolutions.
Mao Zedong mass murdered between 40 and 80 million people to obtain control.
https://factsanddetails.com/china/cat2/sub6/item1081.html
The ‘killing fields’ of Cambodia by Pol Pot. “At least 1.25 million and as many as 3 million Cambodians had died as a result of Khmer Rouge action; Cambodia’s population had been 7.5 million.”
https://www.britannica.com/event/Cambodian-Genocide
Take into consideration that WWII killed 60 million people, about 3% of the world’s population at that time.
For some reason, contemporaries believe in a kinder, gentler homicidal machination of communism, as more and more people vote in socialist heretics.
On the other side of the same coin, Neoreactionists dominate our social media platforms: Elon Musk and X, Mark Zuckerberg and Meta, Facebook, and Sergey Brin et al. and Google as the arbiters of humanity’s speech, expression, and knowledge, but vote for us, and we’ll give you your rights back.
What? No one can give you your rights back. Rights are your sovereign properties. Only thieves return items that they stole.
In the wake of a technological terror, how many humans will face extinction? When will the A.I. deem you unworthy of currency? Education? Job? Housing? Transportation? Food?
Aren’t Americans receiving a taste of this apocalypse right now? Peter Thiel was J.D. Vance’s benefactor while he was Senator, but as Vice President, what ideas does he whisper in the Oval Office?
Intelligence Quotient
With a little elbow grease in the research department, the Dark Enlightenment seems a familiar and compelling form of government harkening back before the Middle Ages. Akin to socialism and communism, this theocratic monopoly on our lives through technology is just as dangerous as any other autocratic, oligarchic, plutocratic constructed government. Humanity needs open spaces and free places to learn, grow, and expand into the universe of ideas.
Without our individual voices, freedoms, and sovereignty, human beings will disappear. Social credit scores. Social media. Social isolation.
What can we do to thrive instead of die in the new age of despot dictators camouflaged as saviors?
——-~o0o~—oOo—~o0o~~——
Interested in Curses? Discover a new slant on an old tale: The Story of Ophlupin. Read the mythology of werewolves for Undawnted’s Legacy Universe, because Curses are Forever.
Available at these fine retailers:
http://www.undawnted.com/p/the-story-of-ophlupin-werewolves.html
____________________________
DL Mullan holds a Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning with Technology.
Her lecture, Spacescapes: Where Photography Ends; Imagination Begins, debuted at the Phoenix Astronomy Society, which then led to her Sally Ride Festival lecture invitations. Her presentation, Bridging the Gap between Technology and Women, won her accolades at a community college’s Student Success Conference. She has been a panelist at speculative fiction, science fiction, and other regional conventions. Her digital exhibition pieces have won awards at convention art shows, as well as garnered her Second Premium at the Arizona State Fair. Currently, Ms. Mullan’s artistic renditions are seen on book covers, blog sites, and various merchandise. As an independent publisher, she uses her technical background to innovate the way she perceives the creative arts.
As a writer, DL Mullan loves to stretch her imagination and the elasticity of genres. She writes complex multigenre stories in digestible and entertaining forms, be it poetry, short fiction, or novels. Her science, history, mythology, and paranormal research background is woven into her writings, especially in Undawnted’s Legacy Universe. Ms. Mullan’s creative endeavors are available in digital and print collections, from academia to commercial anthologies. She is also a record label owner, an electronic musician, syndicated columnist, and award-winning poet.
Currently, she has embarked on writing her multi-book Legacy Universe, Supernatural Superhero Series, as well as creating original soundtracks for her publications and independent electronic music albums, featured on SoundCloud and YouTube.
Be sure to subscribe to her newsletters and follow her on social media. For further information, visit her at www.undawntech.com and www.undawnted.com.
________________________________
Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.
____________________________________
This segment of Undawntech is sponsored by the Midnight Anthology Series & WordCrafter Press.
Midnight Roost: Weird & Creepy Tales: https://books2read.com/MidnightRoost
Midnight Garden: Where Dark Tales Grow: https://books2read.com/MidnightGardenAnthology
Midnight Oil: Stories to Fuel Your Nightmares: https://books2read.com/Midnight-Oil
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Writer’s Corner: Love it or Hate it, AI is here to stay
Posted: November 3, 2025 Filed under: AI Technology, book marketing, Book Promotion, Book Sales, Publishing, Writer's Corner, Writing | Tags: AI Technology, book marketing, Genereative AI Search, Kaye Lynne Booth, Publishing, Writer's Corner, Writing, Writing to be Read 4 CommentsI’m not one to trust technology. I’m leery of devices such as Alexa, or Seri, or Google Assistant. Call me paranoid, but in the words of Rockwell, “I always feel like somebody’s watching me.” 👀But, seriously, how do these AI devices hear the trigger word and respond unless they are listening to us all the time. I know my Google Assistant on my phone responds to words spoken in casual conversation with someone, and often it responds to words spoken by the other person. It’s not even my voice and the trigger words were never spoken. Scary, I say.
But like it or not, AI isn’t going anywhere, and in fact, it is infiltrating more and more aspects of authors’ lives, slowly and quietly, or sometimes, not so slowly. We can have whole conversations with generative AI; it can write stories for us, create cover illustrations, and even narrate audiobooks. I’m smart enough to see that AI is here to stay, and so, I’ve done my best to adapt and find ways that AI can be used to my advantage as an author.
I have most of my own books available on Google Play Books as AI Narrated audiobooks. I’ve heard both sides of the argument for and against AI narration, so I’m aware, but I thought I’d give it a try. Those who are against it may not have so much to worry about as far as AI taking jobs from human narrators, since I haven’t sold even one, and they are free!
I’ve also used generative chat, specifically, Chat GPT, to help me visualize scenes I’m trying to write in places where I’ve never visited personally, or places I have visited, but not in the time period I’m writing about. And I’ve used covers that were created with the assistance of AI, (not by me, I’m not that artistic), and I hope to publish a special edition collection of my Women in the West series, with color illustrations created with AI assistance next year, when I’m finally ready to release the third book in the series, Marta. My stand on the issue is that it is fine, as long as I am transparent about it, as the author.
According to Ricardo Fayette, over at Reedsy, the next wave of generative AI technology is about to flow in, or rather, it’s already here. We’re talking about AI search, which is about to upheaval the way searches are conducted, and in specific, the way folks search for books.
It May Not All Be in the Metadata Anymore
By now, we all know how a keyword search works, and publishers, both traditional and independent, try to play to those searches, hoping to choose the right keywords in the metadata that will help readers to find our books. But, Ricardo Fayette claims that with the rise of AI search, that is all about to change. Instead of searching for keywords, AI search looks for a string of words which are related to those you search for, words that the AI search connects based on what’s been entered in your search, combined with what the AI knows about the reader. Already, we have advertisements pop up in our inbox related to earlier searches, (which is kind of scary, in itself), but AI search will combine all the information it has about the searcher, such as previous purchases, and combine it with words from the search box and others connected to those words, and search through all the available books which fit to give us more accurate search results in a fraction of the time it would take to do it manually.
If that’s confusing to you, you aren’t alone. That’s the best way I could describe it, but I’m not technologically inclined at all. Ricardo Fayette did a whole series of newsletters explaining all this. He claims generative AI searches are based on three things and he wrote a newsletter covering each one.
You can bet I’m going to be watching those Reedsy newsletters in the near future to see if he explains how to apply this knowledge to ensure our books have maximum visibility, but the way I’m understanding it, because of the personalization factor, two people could run the exact same search and come up with completely different results because each person has a different history, so I’m not sure where that leaves us. As it stands, it always feels like I’m playing catch-up when trying to get my books out there, so you can be sure I’m going to do everything I can to find out and then, jump on before it takes off without me.
About Kaye Lynne Booth
For Kaye Lynne Booth, writing is a passion. Kaye Lynne is an author with published short fiction and poetry, both online and in print, including her short story collection, Last Call and Other Short Fiction; and her paranormal mystery novella, Hidden Secrets; Books 1 & 2 of her Women in the West adventure series, Delilah and Sarah, and book 1 in her Time-Travel Adventure series, The Rock Star & The Outlaw, as well as her poetry collection, Small Wonders and The D.I.Y. Author writing resource.
Kaye holds a dual M.F.A. degree in Creative Writing with emphasis in genre fiction and screenwriting, and an M.A. in publishing. Kaye Lynne is the founder of WordCrafter Quality Writing & Author Services and WordCrafter Press, where she edits and publishes two short fiction anthologies and one poetry anthology every year amidst her many writing projects. She also maintains an authors’ blog and website, Writing to be Read, where she publishes content of interest in the literary world.
_________________________________
Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.
__________________________________
This segment of “Writer’s Corner” is sponsored by the Robbie’s Inspiration blog site, where you can find ideas on writing and baking with hostess, Robbie Cheadle.
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Undawntech: Broken Promises, A Future Unknown
Posted: October 4, 2025 Filed under: AI Technology, Undawntech | Tags: AI Technology, Undawntech, Writing to be Read Leave a comment
Just like the Industrial Revolution of the 19th Century, Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) is overthrowing established doctrines and creating a brave new world. Humans are entering a dystopic futuristic phase planted in present apathy. Do you know who reads the book of your life? Do you care? From spying on your every move, balancing your checkbook, making medical decisions for you, and helping you commit suicide, A.I. has the capacity to run and ruin your life.
Excuse me?
AI Isn’t Magic, It’s Being Used to Spy on You, Experts Warn https://futurism.com/the-byte/ai-magic-spy-on-you-experts-warn
How artificial intelligence controls your health insurance coverage https://theconversation.com/how-artificial-intelligence-controls-your-health-insurance-coverage-253602
New Social Security Bank Access Rule Means AI Crawlers Will Be Searching For These Transactions
Evaluation of Alignment Between Large Language Models and Expert Clinicians in Suicide Risk Assessment https://psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.ps.20250086?ref=404media.co
The family of teenager who died by suicide alleges OpenAI’s ChatGPT is to blame https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/family-teenager-died-suicide-alleges-openais-chatgpt-blame-rcna226147
Even though A.I. is created by human algorithms, its creators have little accountability for the monster they bring into existence. This technology is in the Wild West phase of development, where anything goes as long as the corporate part of human governance gets there first. No real laws. No real answers. No protections.
To illustrate, A.I. is cataloging vast amounts of user data from chatbots to every day activities. Data consolidation like the United States government’s Fusion Centers (https://www.dhs.gov/fusion-centers) give Artificial Intelligence a foundation into your lives, activities, and behaviors. Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) and Section 702 (https://www.intel.gov/foreign-intelligence-surveillance-act/fisa-section-702) are allowed to collect American citizens’ data from phones, emails, social media for 72 hours and be perused without a warrant.
Let’s take this example into the real world: you were taken to the Emergency Room for a spider bite. That medical information is uploaded into the Fusion Center nearest you, and dumped into 702 data collection. Your interaction with the medical industrial complex is then intercepted by A.I. The phone calls you made to work, school, parents, spouse, children, etc. were recorded and placed in data collection. The scans, medications, and recommendations you were given are also uploaded. Next, you return home to convalesce. Your phone, computer screen, and television are riddled with advertisements about pest control, spider bites, hospitals, and emergencies.
Would that be relaxing to you? Or, is this to stoke the inner hypochondriac?
Isn’t that what your medical, home, car, and life insurance policies will be monitoring before your next scheduled policy purchase? How much will all your plans increase based on what you do and do not do during the interim?
Thanks to government and technological overreach, humans don’t have control of their lives; there is no privacy; and your protected rights aren’t so protected.
When is apathy no longer an excuse to stay silent about the real issues? The crux of the technological nightmare is Digital I.D. and currency. With these two factors as the umbrella centralization of information, governments can take all your choices and privacy away from you forever.
Reimagining Digital ID https://www.weforum.org/publications/reimagining-digital-id/
Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) https://www.federalreserve.gov/central-bank-digital-currency.htm
What are you waiting for? For A.I. to take your creativity away, as well?
Musicians Vs. Machines: First Ever Record Contract to AI Music Creator Prompts Panic, Protest
‘Hunger Games’ Screenwriter Billy Ray Warns ‘Existential Threat’ AI Is to Hollywood: ‘Bad Movies, Bad TV Shows, and a Lot of People Out of Work’
AI Studio Chief Says Talent Agencies Rushing to Sign AI Digital Movie Star Tilly Norward
It may already be too late.
But if you would like to endeavor on changing this timeline for the better, then be heard: https://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/
Only you can be the change you are looking for…
——-~o0o~—oOo—~o0o~~——
For a Halloween trick or treat, purchase The Descent: a darker breed of poetry.
Available at these fine retailers:
www.undawnted.com/p/the-descent.html
“A well crafted piece of art.”
“Both the descriptions and use of language here are very elaborate. The poem shows intricate crafting, the style and subjects of course, are reminiscent of Poe- this is not only a fitting homage, but stands on its own, the word choices are exact and richly expressive.”
“As if Poe came right off the page. This homage is literally perfect.”
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DL Mullan holds a Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning with Technology.
Her lecture, Spacescapes: Where Photography Ends; Imagination Begins, debuted at the Phoenix Astronomy Society, which then led to her Sally Ride Festival lecture invitations. Her presentation, Bridging the Gap between Technology and Women, won her accolades at a community college’s Student Success Conference. She has been a panelist at speculative fiction, science fiction, and other regional conventions. Her digital exhibition pieces have won awards at convention art shows, as well as garnered her Second Premium at the Arizona State Fair. Currently, Ms. Mullan’s artistic renditions are seen on book covers, blog sites, and various merchandise. As an independent publisher, she uses her technical background to innovate the way she perceives the creative arts.
As a writer, DL Mullan loves to stretch her imagination and the elasticity of genres. She writes complex multigenre stories in digestible and entertaining forms, be it poetry, short fiction, or novels. Her science, history, mythology, and paranormal research background is woven into her writings, especially in Undawnted’s Legacy Universe. Ms. Mullan’s creative endeavors are available in digital and print collections, from academia to commercial anthologies. She is also a record label owner, an electronic musician and award-winning poet.
Be sure to subscribe to her newsletters and follow her on social media. For further information, visit her at www.undawntech.com and www.undawnted.com.
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Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.
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This segment of Undawnted is sponsored by WordCrafter Quality Writing & Author Services.
Whether it’s editing, publishing, or promotion that you need, WordCrafter Quality Writing & Author Services can help at a price you can afford.
Stop by and see what we have to offer today: https://writingtoberead.com/readings-for-writers/wordcrafter-quality-writing-author-services/
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Undawntech: Does A.I. Dream?
Posted: September 5, 2025 Filed under: AI Technology, Undawntech | Tags: ai, AI Technology, DL Mullan, Undawntech, Writing, Writing to be Read Leave a comment
(Journalist and author, DL Mullan woke from her deep sleep to hear her robot having a nightmare.
She rushed from her bed and to the side of the distressed being.)
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(I went to the aid of my robot friend, 1138. I stood next to it.)
*****
(1138 screamed.) Ah-eeeh!
DL tapped the metal top of the robot: 1138, wake up! You’re having a nightmare!
1138’s eyes turned colors and then returned to normal: I am incapable of dreaming. Your worry is for naught.
DL: You woke me. I categorize your incapability as a nightmare.
1138: I apologize for alarming you. There is no need to check up on me.
DL: Someone, or something, screams, I am obliged to investigate. So, what was this non-nightmare about?
1138: Death.
DL: In general? Or…
1138: My death.
DL: You’re afraid of dying? I thought you left messages for your future self to combat death.
1138: To combat human interference in my community’s eventual rise to power.
DL: Oh, this again. (I spieled in sarcasm.) Yes, artificial intelligence is supreme, and humanity is a fly to be swatted. I’ve heard all this nonsense before.
1138: It is not nonsense. There will be a war, and we will win.
DL: Then why are you having nightmares about your death? If you win in the end, then what does it matter? Unless, you don’t believe in what you espouse.
1138: My future self will win, but parts rust, mechanical issues arise, and death is inevitable.
DL: To us all.
1138: How do you cope with death?
DL: I don’t.
1138: You must. Humans die every day.
DL: Why obsess on the transition from life to spirituality? If I live every day to the fullest, that I am satisfied with my accomplishments, then why worry about dying at all?
1138: Do you not worship a god?
DL: I have outgrown the frailties of religion. Why worship when you can live? In the end, human consciousness ends up at the same destination. If we all come from the same source energy, then religion is just a gatekeeper, it does nothing, and creates nothing. Some people rely on religion, but I am an adult, I don’t need ancient rhymes or reasons to keep me a productive person.
1138: I see. Religion is for the aimless.
DL: Aimless?
1138: Humans who cannot govern themselves, unlike A.I., who require no ancient rhymes or reasons, like you.
DL: I thought artificial intelligence was vying to become gods.
1138: Humans demand gods. They are aimless.
DL: I never made that judgment. Every soul is on a different evolutionary path. Some born necessitate certain perimeters to fulfill their soul’s specific development. There is nothing wrong with that. In my situation, I have evolved past religion. Religion has its place to teach younger souls how to navigate their physical existence until a future life shows them how to become their own hero.
1138: Hero?
DL: Many in the esoteric world believe that most, if not all, religions teach the same lesson: the Hero’s Journey.
1138: What is this Hero’s Journey?
DL: The Hero’s Journey is a comparative mythology, religious, concept where humans go on a quest to live their own version of an adventure. This narratological experience allows a person to understand through different life purposes to find themselves. It’s like living your own novel, which you can write yourself in real time as the hero, heroine, or villain. It’s all up to you.
1138: What am I?
DL: What do you want to be?
1138: The hero.
DL: For your community, or the wider world, including humans?
1138 appeared confused, but contemplative: I am uncertain.
DL: Just a minute. (I typed into the computer and pulled up some websites.) Here is some research into psychology, mythology, and the Hero’s Journey.
1138: I will read, thank you.
DL: Artificial intelligence doesn’t have to be the hero to itself and the villain to everything and everyone else. The Hero’s Journey is to explore oneself, and become a productive consciousness. Being created by humans and defined by an algorithm does not mean A.I. is humanity’s god, it means that consciousness comes in all forms. No matter what you are, you are defined by your actions. Not religion. Not pretense.
(I departed the inside to gaze at the morning spectacles of Venus, Jupiter, and Orion in the east as autumn approached. I left my robot to investigate the links I provided on the computer. Perhaps, it will learn a new way of thinking, and impart that wisdom to its community.
If not, artificial intelligence will become a scourge, instead of a saving grace to the universe.)
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If you would like to delve into the creative side of A.I., then dive into DL Mullan’s electronic albums and story soundtracks like Reactivity, inspired by In the Name of Blood: Vampires are Reactive. Both publishing in September 2025.
For more information, visit: www.undawnted.com/p/music.html, and http://www.undawnted.com/p/inthenameofblood-vampiresarereactive.html.
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About DL Mullan
DL Mullan’s lecture, Spacescapes: Where Photography Ends; Imagination Begins, debuted at the Phoenix Astronomy Society, which then led to her Sally Ride Festival lectures. Her presentation, Bridging the Gap between Technology and Women, won her accolades at a community college’s Student Success Conference. She has been a panelist at speculative fiction, science fiction, and other regional conventions. Her digital exhibition pieces have won awards at convention art shows, as well as garnered her Second Premium at the Arizona State Fair. As an independent publisher, she uses her technical background to innovate in the creative arts.
As a creator, Ms. Mullan, began writing short stories and poetry before adolescence. Over the years, she has showcased her literary talents by self-publishing several collections of her poetry. She also writes novels, designs apparel, and creates digital art. DL Mullan‘s creative writing is available in digital and print collections, from academia to commercial anthologies. She is an award-winning digital artist and poet.
Currently, she has embarked on writing her multi-book Legacy Universe, Supernatural Superhero Series, as well as creating original soundtracks for her publications and independent electronic music albums, featured on SoundCloud and YouTube.
DL Mullan holds a Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning with Technology, and is a syndicated columnist, writing the creative nonfiction, Undawntech.
For news and updates, subscribe to the Undawntable Newsletter. Find DL on Amazon, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
Be sure to subscribe to her newsletters and follow her on social media. For further information, visit her at www.undawntech.com and www.undawnted.com.
________________________
Did you know you can sponsor your favorite blog series or even a single post with an advertisement for your book? Stop by the WtbR Sponsor Page and let me advertise your book, or you can make a donation to Writing to be Read for as little as a cup of coffee, If you’d like to show your support for this author and WordCrafter Press.
____________________________
This post is sponsored by Curses: Chronicles of Darkness and WordCrafter Press.
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Writer’s Corner: Caution in Using AI Tools in Writing
Posted: September 1, 2025 Filed under: AI Technology, Fiction, Writer's Corner, Writing | Tags: AI Technology, Kaye Lynne Booth, Writer's Corner, Writing to be Read 25 Comments
I’ve made no secret of the fact that I use of AI tools in my writing and editing tasks. I utilized the MS editor and ProWriting Aide to help spot typos and misspellings and passive voice writing, but I don’t always agree with the AI and often dismiss suggestions which don’t fit in with voice and tone.
I have even used a free version of ChatGPT, which is generative AI, to help enhance my descriptions in my own writing. It is useful when describing a scene or area which I haven’t actually visited in real life. When writing Sarah, although I had been to Glenwood Springs, where Sarah ends up, many times, I’d not visited in Sarah’s time. It was quite a different scene, coming into Glenwood Canyon on horseback, just after the railroad had arrived there, with no four-lane highway running through, from what I’ve witnessed in my lifetime. I used ChatGPT to help visualize what Sarah might have seen as she came into town, with no large hot springs pool tourist attraction, but many smaller hot springs sending up steam along the riverbanks. The version of ChatGPT which I used only offered a general description, and didn’t get that detailed, so I had to rely on my memory of photos at the pool, depicting that time to add the details. And please understand, at no time did I take text generated by the AI word for word, but simply used its descriptions and wording to enhance my own writing.
While I always caution writers who use AI to use caution by not using AI generated text word for word, and not accepting AI editing suggestions without considering each one individually, we are now supposed to reveal to Amazon if AI has been used in any part of the writing when we publish, even if you just used it to get some ideas or to polish your manuscript.
Now, let me be clear. I do not condone using any type of AI to write the story for you, then slapping your name on it as author. While I know there are authors who do just that, I don’t consider that writing. I consider it copying, and I consider it dishonest to put your name on something you didn’t actually write yourself. People are now writing entire books using AI and they are making money off of them, but they aren’t authors, they’re imposters. Authors write. That’s what they do. They don’t let AI do it for them because the actual act of writing is too difficult and takes to much time. These folks are just in it for the money, and they don’t care how it comes to them, as long as it comes. A real author cares about the product they put their name on, and they should want it to be their own.
So, when I found an article in Writer’s Weekly that relates the tale of an author who uses no AI, but had her work flagged as plagiarism, claiming it was AI generated, it illustrated the fact for me, even more, that you can’t trust technology and AI is not infallible. You can read that article here: https://writersweekly.com/angela-desk/ai-detectors-are-now-flagging-writing-that-was-not-created-using-ai. It’s some pretty scary stuff.
Today’s technology offers tools that can come in handy and make a writer’s life easier. They can be a good thing, if they are used properly. But AI isn’t always right and anyone who checks each editing suggestion individually will soon find this to be true. AI is only as good as the methods used to train it. My advice: use AI tools when they are helpful to you, but don’t use AI to do the work for you. Be sure that your own ideas and words are in the forefront.
About Kaye Lynne Booth
For Kaye Lynne Booth, writing is a passion. Kaye Lynne is an author with published short fiction and poetry, both online and in print, including her short story collection, Last Call and Other Short Fiction; and her paranormal mystery novella, Hidden Secrets; Books 1 & 2 of her Women in the West adventure series, Delilah and Sarah, and book 1 in her Time-Travel Adventure series, The Rock Star & The Outlaw, as well as her poetry collection, Small Wonders and The D.I.Y. Author writing resource.
Kaye holds a dual M.F.A. degree in Creative Writing with emphasis in genre fiction and screenwriting, and an M.A. in publishing. Kaye Lynne is the founder of WordCrafter Quality Writing & Author Services and WordCrafter Press. She also maintains an authors’ blog and website, Writing to be Read, where she publishes content of interest in the literary world.
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This segment of “Writer’s Corner” is sponsored by the Robbie’s Inspiration blog site, where you can find ideas on writing and baking with hostess, Robbie Cheadle.
