AI Writing, Em-Dashes & Why We're Not Really Arguing About the Same Thing
I’m Doing It Again – Talking About the Em-Dash
Because this discussion isn’t really about one specific punctuation mark. And it’s definitely not about hating on AI or fearing change.
But if you’ve missed it: a lot of people have pointed out that the em-dash is becoming a clear sign (or “tell”) of AI-generated writing. Others are arguing back – rightfully hyped about the massive potential of AI – saying we shouldn’t waste time on punctuation when a technological revolution is happening.
I, too, chimed in with my own nerdy take on what different dashes actually do (hyphen, en-dash, em-dash) and how they shape tone. But this sparked a bigger thought:
We’re having two conversations at once – and they don’t quite line up.
The Double Conversation: Tech Revolution vs. Good Copy
Here’s what I think is going on.
🔹 On one side: a conversation about AI’s development, possibilities, and how we navigate a new tech-driven reality.
🔹 On the other: a conversation about what makes text actually good, compelling, and human – and why some AI-written pieces fall flat.
And unless we’re clear about which conversation we’re in, things can get messy.
It’s like two people discussing whether ice cream is good – but one is talking about flavor, and the other about consistency. If they don’t realize they’re answering different questions, the conversation quickly becomes confusing.
It’s Not About Being a Style Police
People aren’t nitpicking punctuation for the fun of it. (Okay, some of us might be 🤓.)
But really – it’s a reaction to the feeling that something’s off.
When a text feels generic, bland, or oddly structured, we start pointing at surface-level clues: punctuation, tone, rhythm. It’s a form of symptom-reading. A way to explain why a text doesn’t quite connect.
Often, the real issue isn’t the dash – it’s that the text lacks a strong point of view, a real voice, or a clear intention. That’s what we’re reacting to.
Good Copy Still Matters (Maybe More Than Ever)
Here’s where it gets interesting:
We’re not only moving forward in lightning speed when it comes to tech – we’re also being pushed to evolve how we think about communication.
What makes something feel human? What sparks connection? What earns attention?
These questions aren’t new. Every wave of new tech – from the printing press to text messages to social media – has changed how we tell stories, sell ideas, and engage people. (Remember when journalists wrote the most important facts last? Today, everything has to fit above a “read more” fold.)
So while AI gives us incredible tools, we still need to shape the message. Copywriting, strategy, tone, clarity, personality – all of it still matters.
Maybe even more than before.
So… Should We Care About Em-Dashes?
Yes – and no.
Not because a dash alone makes or breaks your writing, but because it points to a deeper truth: tools don’t replace creativity. They amplify it.
If we use AI without intention, without voice, without that human spark… the result is often a blur of beige content.
But if we use it well – if we add our own ideas, strategy, and creativity – it becomes something else entirely.
Final Thought: Let’s Keep Both Conversations Going
This isn’t a war between camps. It’s an invitation to nuance.
We can be excited about AI and care about what makes writing work.
We can geek out about grammar and explore how tech boosts creativity.
We can analyze style choices and build rockets to Mars.
(And if your text uses semicolons instead of em-dashes? You’ll get a gold star from me.)
🚀 Want Help Standing Out With Your Content?
If you’re navigating the world of AI-generated text but still want your content to feel sharp, human, and aligned with your brand – that’s where I come in.
I help businesses and creators shape messaging that connects: blending strategy, creativity, and just the right amount of polish. Whether you’re writing everything yourself, co-creating with AI, or handing it over completely – I make sure your content still sounds like you.
Curious to see how we could work together?
