Jamir Nazir’s short story “The Serpent in the Grove” wins the Commonwealth short story prize even after widespread online accusations that it was written using AI. The story goes viral after being named a regional winner in mid-May, prompting critics on platforms including X and Bluesky to argue it shows “obvious markers” of AI use. Following the controversy, Granta—previously set to publish the Commonwealth winners—withdraws from its agreement. Multiple outlets report that Nazir disputes the allegations and offers a defense in response to claims that the work was produced with AI.
The Commonwealth Foundation is also reported to have reviewed the matter and concludes it is satisfied that no AI was used in the writing of Nazir’s story. Despite criticism and the publishing disruption, the judging process proceeds, and the prize committee describes the story as original, poetic, and moving. Nazir ultimately receives the overall Commonwealth prize, with the award formally recognizing “The Serpent in the Grove.”
