A tool is an extension of man, and it is not additive as you suggest, even for “talented writers”. A tool interacts with man’s mind and body, and society’s fabric, “adjusting the sense ratios” of man, to use McLuhan’s phrase.
“Just a tool” is lazy thinking that is most effectively used to stifle debate about technology. This has happened with the typewriter, the gun, the computer. For a more sophisticated engagement with technology, see Neil Postman, Ivan Illic, Marshall McLuhan, even Frank Herbert.