A Special Issue on Computer-Generated Text
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MQR is calling for submissions for a special issue on the theme of computer-generated text with particular emphasis on writing projects or pieces that feature machine learning methods and/or language models, large or small, such as those of the generative pre-trained transformer (GPT) family, stand-alone GANs and RNNs, and more, in the generation, composition, or arrangement of text. The issue also welcomes pieces generated, composed, or arranged by computational non-machine learning methods such as Markov chain generation and works generated in any variety of program languages. Collaborations are welcome.
All pieces should be accompanied by a “Works Statement” of 500-1000 words that illustrates for the reader how the pieces were composed/operated/manipulated/prompted/coded etc.
We are especially interested in works that do more than demonstrate the ability of certain software and programs to generate cogent text—so much is already evident by a casual interaction with ChatGPT. We are interested in works ranging from lyrical narratives to the experimental and innovative that aim to subvert, re-interpret, examine, challenge and recontextualize what it means to write with and within machine processes and that consider the literary and cultural effects of using computational systems as writing tools. We are interested in work that shifts our perceptions of generated text and that probes the limitations and failures of language models in unique and interesting ways.
We welcome texts in all genres (poetry, prose, art, and researched essays) as well as in mixed genres and hybrid work. In addition to original, previously unpublished works in all genres, we also welcome collaborative work, translations, and visual works that can be presented in print or digitally on MQR online.
Guest Editor: Lillian-Yvonne Bertram
The issue will be published in October 2025.
Maximum length for articles, essays, and works of fiction is 7,000 words.
Poetry submissions must not exceed 10 pages.
If Submittable is not accessible to you, please email mqr@umich.edu