Mowshowitz backs AI rejection letters and back-cover copy that sells
Zvi MowshowitzWriter of Don't Worry About the Vase
Mowshowitz supports some use of AI for rejection letters and says AI-written back-cover copy makes sense if it sells books more effectively. He advises authors against contractual bans on processing manuscripts with AI, predicting that such restrictions could make editors reject their work.
“Rejection letters seem like a good place to sometimes use AI.”
Analysis
Where this statement fits
Should book publishers use AI tools in their internal workflows?
WIRED's October 9, 2026 report documents disagreement over publishers' internal AI use. Simon & Schuster's Wibke Grutjen defends optional, approved tools. Literary agent Emma Dries prefers a ban, or clearer disclosure. Publicist Kathleen Schmidt accepts administrative assistance but rejects AI-written publicity pitches.
Source and context
Analysis
About this source
Mowshowitz supports some uses of AI in rejection letters and back-cover copy, and advises authors against blanket contractual prohibitions.
Archived copy (opens in a new tab)Before the quotation
His October 15 newsletter comments on Adam Morgan's WIRED report about publisher AI use.
After the quotation
He distinguishes his own evaluations from excerpts he quotes from Morgan's reporting.
How this statement is classified
The label describes this statement's response within the context above.
Why this label?
Mowshowitz expressly supports specific publisher uses of AI and advises against blanket contractual restrictions.
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The Dispute Index. "Mowshowitz backs AI rejection letters and back-cover copy that sells". First published: 2026-10-30. Last updated: 2026-10-30. https://disputeindex.com/events/7340-mowshowitz-supports-some-use-of-ai-for-rejection