Next Token Prediction Is a Dead End for Creativity

Ibukun Olatunji; Mark Sheppard

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arXiv · 2505.19277

Next Token Prediction Is a Dead End for Creativity

Ibukun Olatunji·Mark Sheppard

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Abstract

This paper argues that token prediction is fundamentally misaligned with real creativity. While next-token models have enabled impressive advances in language generation, their architecture favours surface-level coherence over spontaneity, originality, and improvisational risk. We use battle rap as a case study to expose the limitations of predictive systems, demonstrating that they cannot truly engage in adversarial or emotionally resonant exchanges. By reframing creativity as an interactive process rather than a predictive output, we offer a vision for AI systems that are more expressive, responsive, and aligned with human creative practice.

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Ibukun Olatunji, Mark Sheppard. 2025-05-25. Next Token Prediction Is a Dead End for Creativity. https://arxiv.org/abs/2505.19277

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