Field Notes
On the Frontier

This is a living laboratory. It features experiments in human-AI collaboration, creativity, and business management.

Why I Created Multiple Pen Names For Different Genres
Alex LeClair Alex LeClair

Why I Created Multiple Pen Names For Different Genres

Traditionally, pen names have also been a good way to overcome bias or to give your writing career a fresh start or to publish sensitive or unconventional content. For me, it’s fun. And it makes sense to stay in the background, because I feel more like a creative director in this process.

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The Trouble With Elara: Using AI for Fantasy Character Names
Alex LeClair Alex LeClair

The Trouble With Elara: Using AI for Fantasy Character Names

If you’re writing a fantasy (or a romantasy), A.I. loves to suggest the names Elara, Lyra, Silas, Elias, and Kaelen, among others. I asked A.I. to list the most common names that A.I. provides for fantasy characters and Silas was listed twice. That’s how common it is. Any surname will likely have “Thorne” or “Black” or “Wood” or “Vance” in the name. Stay away from these.

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