Canadian publisher says AI was used in Thélyson Orélien's novel, ends collaboration
Éditions du Boréal cut ties with the Haitian-Canadian author of 'C'était ça ou mourir' after concluding he used artificial intelligence, contrary to his repeated denials.
The Canadian publisher of Haitian-Canadian writer Thélyson Orélien announced Wednesday that it is ending its collaboration with the author of "C'était ça ou mourir," saying he did use artificial intelligence in writing his novel despite his repeated assurances to the contrary, according to Le Nouvelliste.
"New elements, confirmed over recent days, indicate that artificial intelligence was used in the writing process of 'C'était ça ou mourir,' whereas the author had assured us, on several occasions, that he had never resorted to it for the creation of his novel," the publisher, Éditions du Boréal, said in a statement cited by Le Nouvelliste.
The decision follows earlier allegations that Orélien had used AI in composing the book. Le Nouvelliste reported that Orélien had previously abandoned his effort to gather evidence intended to support his denial and document the writing process. Éditions du Boréal confirmed that decision in an exchange with La Presse Canadienne, reported by La Presse on October 17.
The case has drawn attention within Haitian and Canadian literary circles amid broader debates over the use of generative AI in published fiction. Le Nouvelliste noted the publisher had initially continued to support the author before reversing course.