After observing his reputation being dismantled in recent weeks, Quebec-based writer Thélyson Orélien has broken his silence to address accusations of utilizing artificial intelligence in crafting his first novel.
In a statement issued by his Montreal publisher, Éditions du Boréal, Orélien dismissed the claims as slander and heresy. The novel, titled “C’était ça ou mourir” (translated as “It was either that or die”), chronicles the journey of a Haitian migrant seeking refuge in Canada, mirroring Orélien’s own experience following the 2010 earthquake.
Initially praised in the French literary sphere, the novel faced scrutiny after an unidentified individual ran excerpts through an AI detection tool and shared the findings on Sept. 21, coinciding with the novel’s Prix du roman Fnac win.
Despite the AI tool Pangram attributing the novel entirely to generative AI, Orélien acknowledged using AI tools sporadically for research, particularly for foreign idioms, asserting that the essence of the text, structure, and plot originated from his intuition.
Amidst what he described as a media-driven “lynching” and racist harassment, Orélien lamented the unjust treatment he endured, emphasizing the emotional toll of the situation.
Disputing the credibility of the AI detection tool, Orélien rejected the notion that his work was machine-generated, emphasizing the personal significance and humanity embedded in his writing.
Moreover, revelations of past plagiarism in Orélien’s earlier writings surfaced, leading to his exclusion from literary events and distancing by organizations like the Prix Goncourt.
Acknowledging his past transgressions, Orélien admitted to youthful indiscretions in his writing, attributing them to a hurried writing style influenced by admired authors, while stressing the uniqueness and authenticity of his novel.
Orélien urged for a fair assessment of “C’était ça ou mourir,” underscoring its roots in his life experiences and interactions with migrants, distancing himself from the pursuit of accolades or fame.
As the debate unfolded regarding the authenticity of his work, Orélien faced further challenges with media scrutiny prompting his return to Quebec from a press tour in France.
Despite the ongoing controversy, Éditions du Boréal declared its trust in Orélien, highlighting the author’s assurance regarding the manuscript’s authenticity and distancing the creative process from past plagiarism incidents.
As “C’était ça ou mourir” remains a contender for prestigious literary awards, including the Prix Renaudot, the narrative surrounding Orélien and his novel continues to evolve.
