AI & social media

a word about social media

You may note that as author-artist of EXUDE, my social media footprint is skimpy or inconsistent, at best.

Unlike countless authors today, I don't maintain much of a social media presence across the usual medley of popular platforms often used to promote book launches and such.

This reality is by design.

You see, while working on EXUDE (and, to be frank, even well before), I was already re-evaluating my entire online presence, professional and otherwise.

Without going too deep down any rabbit holes, what I will say is that somewhere in the middle of this immersive, visual writing project, I decided that social media engagement, despite its convenience and connection, comes at too-high-a-price in terms of:

• commoditization of the self; 

• a slew of privacy violations too lengthy to list;

• increasing loss of autonomy;

• enables massive copyright theft by AI developers;

• erodes overall mental health for countless children, teens, and adults

Please note I'm not naive. 

I understand social media is the dominating way of the world today BUT that doesn't mean 'I'm helpless' and can't make adjustments to my digital footprint activity and especially across social platforms.

I recognize my decision to taper social activity goes against the grain of industry's "marketing advice" or "best practice;" especially during a critical time like a book launch.

But as a free thinker, I've never been one to follow the pack.

Don't get me wrong.

I love technology and staying connected.

I just don't love the platform owners, their unsafe practices, their unethical policies, and their overall disregard towards users.

As I type here, I wrestle often with finding a (better?) balance.

The platforms I'm fairly "ok" with, though my participation varies widely from time to time, currently include:

• BlueSky

• Pinterest

• Substack

• TikTok

• Instagram (my indie press brand)

• YouTube (for me and for my indie press brand)

Bottom line:

If you're active on social media and happen to post about EXUDE using the #EXUDEbook hashtag, there's a strong possibility I may not immediately see or access your conversation(s) in a timely fashion (because I keep my social media on a tight rein, as explained).

That said, if you *REALLY* want to share comments with me, and/or would like a personalized response from me, your best bet will be to simply email me at hellomayrayadir@gmail.com.

In gratitude,