Quebec writer of Haitian origin Thélyson Orélien defends the authenticity of his novel «That was it or die.», in the centre of a controversy since 21 September. In a statement this Tuesday, he claims to have started writing the book in 2017, in Quebec, and denies having used artificial intelligence to write its content. However, he acknowledges that he has used certain tools for his research, including linguistics, while denouncing threats, racist harassment and personal attacks he claims to be the target.
The author also goes back to mistakes committed at the beginning of his literary career, which he now considers unacceptable, and presents an unreserved apology. He admits that his old publications and his career can be critically examined, although he believes that these elements do not constitute evidence of the use of artificial intelligence in the writing of his novel. He said he accepted journalistic investigations and criticism from readers, but rejected the attacks he considered harassment.
Published in March 2026, «That was it or die.» deals in particular with exile, migration and their human consequences through the history of Jonas Dorléon. Thélyson Orélien asks that his work be judged on its content rather than on the accusations surrounding it. He claims that he wants to make a human story heard beyond the origins of his character and the controversy raised by the book.
