The Playwright in the Age of AI: Ayad Akhtar’s McNeal

Ayad Akhtar’s brilliant new play, McNeal, currently captivating audiences at the Lincoln Center Theater, navigates the disintegration of a celebrated writer in the not-so-distant future. This thought-provoking narrative challenges our prevailing notions of creativity, originality, and the notion that artificial intelligence poses an existential threat to human ingenuity. Spearheaded by a stunning performance from Robert Downey Jr., making his return to the stage after more than 40 years, McNeal delves into the complexities introduced by large language models (LLMs) and their impact on the creative landscape.

As someone deeply engaged in conversations about artificial generative intelligence, Akhtar stands out as one of the few writers whose perspective on AI does not boil down to a frantic defense against life-threatening disruptions. In fact, Akhtar has embraced these advanced tools, such as ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, during the writing process of McNeal. To his surprise, these technologies seem to have enhanced his work, prompting a fascinating debate on whether their use should be perceived as controversial.

In September, a gathering transpired at Downey’s New York residence, featuring Akhtar, Downey, and Tony Award-winning director Bartlett Sher, leading to a spirited exchange on the play’s themes and the implications of AI in the creative realm. Intermittently joined by Susan Downey, the discussion traversed various ideas, showcasing the exceptional qualities of each participant, all while addressing the inevitable changes brought by technology.

The Context of AI in Creativity

During the conversation, Akhtar shared thoughtful insights regarding the long-standing influence of technology on writing and creativity. “We’ve been living in a regime of automated cognition, digital cognition, for a decade and a half. With AI, we’re witnessing its downstream effects, which are not entirely new to us,” he explained. His apprehension lies in understanding how these new technologies would have influenced literary giants like Saul Bellow and Philip Roth, whose linguistic richness is cherished by many, including himself.

“While the legacy of these authors persists, we must consider how their works resonate in our rapidly evolving context,” he added. This sentiment is echoed in McNeal, where Akhtar blends the wisdom of luminaries from a bygone era with the daunting shifts caused by modern advancements, suggesting that AI can illuminate rather than overshadow the role of the writer.

Unique Philosophical Perspectives

The play’s protagonist emphasizes the timeless struggles and aspirations of a writer faced with the challenges of an increasingly distracted society. Akhtar thoughtfully mentioned, “In this play, the dazzling display of natural wonder, traditionally seen as awe-inspiring, has been transformed into AI. It’s no longer the sublime of nature that captivates us—it’s now the realm of artificial creation.”

In a playful moment, Robert Downey Jr. interjected, “I feel that me and ideal are synonymous,” injecting levity into a profound conversation about the essence of character creation.

The intertwining of humanity with technology in Akhtar’s narrative prompts a reevaluation of what it truly means to be a creator in the age of AI. As Downey prepares to navigate this complex character in McNeal, the audience is left pondering how artworks and artists can evolve alongside the technology that both challenges and enhances their craft.

Conclusion: Embracing the Intersection of Art and AI

As the dialogue surrounding AI and the creative process continues to resonate across various fields, McNeal becomes a focal point for conversations about art, originality, and the future of storytelling. Akhtar’s willingness to engage with new technologies in the creation of his art serves as an invitation for others to consider the potential benefits of collaboration with AI rather than viewing it strictly as a threat. Through this perspective, the artistic community can strive for a landscape where human ingenuity is not diminished but amplified by the tools it employs.

This exploration of creativity in the age of AI not only reflects the thoughts of one playwright but also resonates as a broader commentary on the ongoing evolution of artistic expression in a world unraveled by technology. As we embrace these changes, it becomes essential to navigate this intersection with curiosity and cautious optimism.

This article appears in the November 2024 print edition under the headline “The Playwright in the Age of AI.”