Quebec writer Thélyson Orélien has decided to halt his attempt to gather evidence supporting his denial of using artificial intelligence to write his novel, as confirmed by his publisher. The move effectively concludes the effort initiated by Éditions du Boréal to investigate how the novel, titled “It was either that or dying,” was created, leaving unanswered questions about the potential use of AI in its composition.
Éditions du Boréal’s co-director, Renaud Roussel, conveyed in an email to The Canadian Press that Orélien opted to cease the evidence-collection process. Roussel stated that the publishing house supported Orélien’s decision, acknowledging that they would have preferred to provide definitive answers regarding the AI usage allegations against him.
Orélien did not respond immediately to The Canadian Press’s request for comment on his decision to discontinue the evidence-gathering endeavor.
Earlier in September, Boréal had disclosed its collaboration with Orélien to compile a comprehensive record of his manuscript’s development before submission. Orélien had mentioned to French media outlet Libération that he was working with his publishers in France and Quebec to substantiate his version of the novel’s creation process.
Roussel clarified that the initiative originated from Orélien, with the publisher offering support throughout the process and maintaining an unchanged stance. The impact on the novel’s sales has been acknowledged by the Quebec publisher, indicating a slowdown post-controversy, though specific figures were not disclosed. The book remains available in stores, with a restock expected soon.
Despite the situation, Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec reported a significant interest in the novel, with a notable number of digital edition reservations. Orélien, in a statement released through Boréal, reiterated that the book is entirely his creation, denying the use of AI in its composition and addressing previous plagiarism issues in his earlier works.
The novel was recently disqualified from the prestigious Prix Goncourt in France due to the AI allegations and prior plagiarism accusations. Boréal temporarily paused promotional activities for the book out of concern for Orélien’s well-being but has decided to continue its sale without conclusive evidence on the AI claims.