Canadian publisher Boréal ends relationship with novelist Thélyson Orélien over alleged use of AI
Canadian publisher Boréal has severed ties with novelist Thélyson Orélien after an investigation confirmed the use of artificial intelligence in his novel. Orélien had previously denied the allegations, which led to his removal from the Prix Goncourt list.
Why it matters
This case underscores the growing controversy and ethical concerns regarding the use of AI in creative writing and literary awards.
Novelist Thélyson Orélien at the 28th Les Correspondances literature festival in Manosque, France on 24 September 2026./Getty Images Novelist Thélyson Orélien at the 28th Les Correspondances literature festival in Manosque, France on 24 September 2026./Getty Images Awards and prizes Canadian publisher Boréal ends relationship with novelist Thélyson Orélien over alleged use of AI Author withdrawn from France’s Prix Goncourt last month has repeatedly denied using artificial intelligence to write novel
Prefer the Guardian on Google The publisher of top-selling Haitian Canadian writer Thélyson Orélien, who was removed from France’s most prestigious literary prize list last month, has confirmed the author used artificial intelligence to help write his novel C’était ça ou mourir (It Was Either That or Die).
Orélien has denied allegations that he used AI on his breakthrough novel and, last week, Canadian publisher Les Éditions du Boréal said it was standing by the 38-year-old writer.
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