The hottest Storytelling Substack posts right now

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Chapter 31: Koa doesn't take the news well

PASSAGES • 1139 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Narrative Storytelling Character development Emotional Cultural Context
  1. Koa feels anxious about leaving her home in the Valley. She is not ready to leave the only place she has known as home.
  2. Koa discovers surprising and upsetting news about her family, which makes her feel lost and confused. She is starting to question who she really is.
  3. She experiences something new and exciting when taken to a diner, showing her curiosity about the world outside the Valley. The meal brings her joy but also adds to her feelings of uncertainty.

A Tale of a Lost Heir

Papyrus Rampant • 119 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction History Storytelling Character development Cultural analysis
  1. When writing about a lost heir, it's important to show why others want to follow them. A strong character, like Bonnie Prince Charlie, can inspire loyalty in others, making the story more engaging.
  2. Authors need to create believable circumstances that allow the heir to gather support without being quickly defeated. Historical events can provide inspiration for how to craft these situations.
  3. A lost heir's eventual reign should hint at their ability to lead. Even if they don't win, showing how they would govern helps readers connect with the character and understand the challenges they face.

The Visual World of 'Samurai Jack'

Animation Obsessive • 30856 implied HN points • 26 May 25
🎭️ Culture Animation Visual Arts Film Television Storytelling
  1. Samurai Jack told stories through visuals instead of dialogue. The team focused on creating beautiful images that captured emotions and actions without needing words.
  2. The show's unique art style came from mixing different influences, like classic films and mid-century cartoons. This made the backgrounds and characters really stand out.
  3. Tartakovsky believed kids could understand complex stories, so he created a show that treated them with intelligence. This bold approach made Samurai Jack memorable and different from other cartoons at the time.

A Hopeless Introvert's Guide to Hopeful Public Speaking

Unmapped Storylands with Elif Shafak • 8650 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
📚 Literature Public Speaking Storytelling Writing Emotions Literary Events
  1. Perception matters. If you view public speaking as a burden, it will feel heavy to you. But seeing it as a chance to connect can change everything.
  2. Being imperfect is okay. People come to listen to your stories, not to see a perfect image. Your genuine self is what really matters.
  3. Remember, the audience is part of the conversation too. We all share this confusing world, so it's important to connect and share our questions together.

Character Generation on the Carousel of Collapse

Postcards From Barsoom • 2399 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Storytelling Dystopia Culture
  1. The collapse of complex civilizations leads to interesting discussions on future societies and human roles. People often use storytelling and archetypes to explore these ideas.
  2. There is a growing conversation around the influence of gender dynamics in spaces like academia, focusing on how male engagement is changing.
  3. Podcast discussions often dive into topics like male flight from traditional roles and the significance of reality as a structured story, prompting listeners to reflect on their own roles.
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The Review

lcamtuf’s thing • 5305 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
⚔ Fiction Drama Dialogue Character Storytelling Existential
  1. The meeting that was supposed to happen is canceled, reflecting unpredictability in life. Sometimes, things we expect can change suddenly.
  2. The speaker uses the idea of the universe's chaos to illustrate how unlikely events can occur, similar to the randomness of life. It suggests that the universe has strange ways of creating possibilities.
  3. The conversation explores the concept of reality versus perception, questioning whether our experiences are real or just a dream. This raises interesting thoughts about how we view our existence.

When Do We Give Up on Writing?

Unmapped Storylands with Elif Shafak • 15613 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing Literary Criticism Storytelling Children's literature Philosophy
  1. Writing often takes us to a quiet, lonely place where we can be creative, but once we share our work, our lives can become busy and public.
  2. Many people stop calling themselves writers or artists as they grow up because they fear judgment and criticism from others.
  3. We shouldn't let the fear of what others think keep us from expressing ourselves. It's important to hold onto our creativity and remember the joy of storytelling.

Chapter 30: Kent continues investigating Koa

PASSAGES • 1478 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Narrative Storytelling Novels
  1. Kent is investigating a case involving a woman named Mary Anderson, who had a stillborn baby twenty years ago. He is trying to confirm if she had a specific procedure after the delivery.
  2. Kent speaks with Dr. Samuel Ito, the doctor who delivered Mary's baby, to get answers. However, Dr. Ito is very cautious because of patient confidentiality rules.
  3. While waiting to hear back from the doctor, Kent reflects on his day and thinks about Koa, showing that he has personal feelings connected to his investigation.

Journalists should start building life rafts earlier in their careers

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 523 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Media Filmmaking Journalism Content creation Storytelling
  1. Journalists should think about creating their own platforms early in their careers. Having a personal website or newsletter can help them connect better with their audience.
  2. The situation at CNN is uncertain as they transition away from traditional cable. There is a need for major changes to adapt to the future of media.
  3. Support for indie filmmakers is growing, with new partnerships like Tubi and Kickstarter helping fresh talent get their movies made.

Chapter 29: Jud and his family visit the Valley

PASSAGES • 1278 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Storytelling Writing Character development Narrative
  1. Jud and his family are traveling down a narrow and steep road into Waimalia Valley. It's a bit scary, but they are excited to see the wild horses.
  2. The journey brings a sense of responsibility for Jud as he drives with his family in the truck. He wants to keep them safe while they explore.
  3. On the way, Jud meets a local driver, which shows the community feel of the area. It’s nice to see locals enjoying the valley just like his family.

Hector Saves His Dad

Postcards From Barsoom • 1863 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
⚔ Fiction Creative Writing Literature Storytelling Narrative
  1. A boy named Hector goes on a journey to help his dad, showing the strong bond between family members. This story highlights the importance of love and support in difficult times.
  2. The author feels guilty for not doing more for his supporters and wants to offer something special by putting his fiction behind a paywall. This decision is meant to reward those who truly value his work.
  3. Fiction often struggles to get attention and engagement compared to other topics like politics. The author hopes that by offering fiction for paid subscribers, he can encourage more people to appreciate this art form.

The Inherited Ceramics Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1206 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🎭️ Culture Heritage Art Family Identity Storytelling
  1. Inherited objects, like ceramics, can carry deep family stories and connections to the past. They remind us of our roots and the experiences of our loved ones.
  2. Many younger people today don't see value in their parents' heirlooms and often sell or discard them. What's considered treasure can quickly become trash.
  3. Finding creative ways to repurpose or display these inherited items can breathe new life into them. It helps keep the memories alive without the pressure of keeping them pristine.

In-person event, an interview, a personal note and a political comment

Charles Eisenstein • 6 implied HN points • 03 Mar 25
🎭️ Culture Personal Growth Storytelling Community Technology impact Political Commentary
  1. Take breaks for mental and physical health. Rest is really important to recharge and enjoy life.
  2. Many people feel torn between different political views. It's valuable to understand various perspectives without choosing sides.
  3. There's a unique gathering happening at the Omega Institute focused on a new and ancient story. It blends different financial contributions to make it accessible for everyone.

Chapter 27: Koa goes topside

PASSAGES • 1638 implied HN points • 02 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Storytelling Narrative Character development
  1. Koa experiences a new way of exploring the world while riding in a truck, feeling like she's on a boat. This shows her that movement can change how she sees things around her without needing to slow down.
  2. As they drive, Koa reflects on her home in the Valley and feels both comforted by it and overwhelmed by the outside world. She realizes she knows her home well, but is also curious about what lies beyond.
  3. Koa struggles with her emotions about leaving the Valley, wishing she could stay forever but trying to embrace the new experiences. It's a mix of fear and excitement when facing the unknown.

Classics Corner: Corduroy

Readable Moments Book Club • 396 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
📚 Literature Children's Books Illustration Classic literature Storytelling Cultural Context
  1. Corduroy is a story about a bear who wants to find a home and a child, Lisa, who sees his worth despite his missing button. It shows the importance of loving something for its uniqueness.
  2. The illustrations in Corduroy are charming and convey deep emotions, making the story more special. They help readers connect with Corduroy’s longing to be loved.
  3. Corduroy’s journey reflects a common human experience of wanting to belong, reminding readers about the deep desire for acceptance and a place to call home.

On Fairy Tales

Secretum Secretorum • 151 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
📚 Literature Storytelling Childhood Mythology Symbolism
  1. Fairy tales often focus on themes of transformation and redemption, showing how characters grow and change through their challenges. For instance, Belle and the Beast evolve through their relationship, revealing that true beauty lies within.
  2. Telling stories connects generations, creating a special bond between the elderly and young, as tales from the past guide the future. These stories help children understand their roots and the world around them.
  3. The journey in a fairy tale is often unpredictable, leading characters to unexpected places where they ultimately discover what truly matters. This reflects our own journeys in life where we learn and grow along the way.

This New Internet Thing, Chapter 33

Life Since the Baby Boom • 922 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
⚔ Fiction Literature Storytelling Character development Narrative Themes
  1. Len has found a new purpose in his retirement by managing an Internet sector mutual fund. It's surprising how his career took a turn he never expected.
  2. Cassie is now a single mom and Len is thrilled to be her child's godfather. Family roles can change, but that doesn't mean they can't bring happiness.
  3. Len is thinking about the future, considering how to help his goddaughter and honoring his late brother. It's important to think about legacy and the impact we can have on others.

Rêves trouvés

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 293 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Storytelling Creative Writing Narrative
  1. The author found a lost notebook that had a note asking to be returned to its owner, which sparked a journey to reconnect it with that person.
  2. The contents of the notebook revealed dreams written by someone, which were personal and at times eerie, showcasing the complexities of human emotions.
  3. There was a moral dilemma about returning the notebook, as the author reflected on the past experiences with its owner while trying to do the right thing.

Doing Crimes w my dad

Both Are True • 130 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Family Storytelling Humor Memory Relationships
  1. Spending time with family can lead to funny and memorable moments, like the bonding experience of removing an old TV together. It's special to share laughter and joy while doing something that feels a bit adventurous.
  2. Communication can shift between languages and cultures, as seen in the playful interactions between family members who speak different languages. It's a fun reminder of how language can bring us closer or create a divide.
  3. Inside jokes and shared laughter help strengthen family ties, making ordinary moments more meaningful. Humor can turn a simple task into a cherished memory.

4 Children's Books About Loneliness

Readable Moments Book Club • 317 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
📚 Literature Children's Books Book Reviews Education Storytelling
  1. Children experience loneliness too, and it can be deep and overwhelming for them. They need comfort and understanding from adults and friends.
  2. Books can help kids cope with loneliness by showing them different ways to connect with themselves and others. Reading together can also strengthen those bonds.
  3. Friendship and community are important ways to combat loneliness. Events like sharing food can bring people together and help kids feel less alone.

21 Pitch Calls from Paying Publications

The Sub Club Newsletter • 396 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Writing Publishing Media Storytelling Lifestyle
  1. Editors are really busy right now and getting lots of pitches, so don't take it personally if you don't hear back right away.
  2. If you're unsure if a story idea will be popular, don't hesitate to pitch it. Your unique experience could resonate with many readers.
  3. There are many opportunities to pitch stories on various topics like lifestyle, politics, and ageism, so keep looking for the right fit for your ideas.

The Look of 'Over the Garden Wall'

Animation Obsessive • 15786 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Animation Film Visual Arts Television Storytelling
  1. Over the Garden Wall is a special show that stands out for its unique visual style and storytelling. It mixes comedy, drama, and horror in a way that makes it feel like a timeless classic.
  2. The art team, led by Nick Cross, worked hard to create stunning backgrounds and designs using inspiration from old cartoons and paintings. This attention to detail made the show feel like an independent film on TV.
  3. Despite the challenges of making a short series, the team enjoyed a lot of creative freedom. This allowed them to take risks and try new ideas, which is something that’s rare in the animation industry today.

The Year's End

Animation Obsessive • 10135 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Animation Art Film Media Storytelling
  1. Animation has had a year of ups and downs. Big hits and mass job losses coexisted in America, while Japan's animation scene is growing despite some challenges.
  2. There are plenty of inspiring stories in the animation world, like independent creators making feature films or successful documentaries about past works. Art continues to find a way to shine through difficulties.
  3. The newsletter aims to celebrate good work and share intriguing stories, showing that even in tough times, passion and creativity can lead to great achievements.

One of 2024's Best Films Was Made in Pakistan

Animation Obsessive • 9956 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Film Animation Art Music Storytelling
  1. The Glassworker is a unique animated film from Pakistan that explores themes of art and war. It highlights the importance of creativity even in difficult times.
  2. The creators of The Glassworker spent ten years making the film, overcoming challenges to set up their animation studio in Karachi. They aimed to prove that high-quality animation could be produced in Pakistan.
  3. The film combines local culture with a universal fantasy feel, using the story of glassblowing to reflect the journey of its creators. It's set against the backdrop of their experiences growing up during conflict.

Excel at Assimilation

antoniomelonio • 75 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
⚔ Fiction Literature Creative Writing Storytelling Narrative
  1. Getting stuck in repetitive tasks can feel overwhelming, like being trapped in a never-ending loop with no escape. It's important to find a way out of that cycle to regain your sense of control.
  2. People often define themselves by how they're measured at work, which can feel dehumanizing. We shouldn't let our worth be reduced to numbers and data points.
  3. Finding moments of nostalgia and connection to simpler times can help revive our spirit amidst the chaos of modern work life. Those memories can provide comfort and hope for a better balance.

The End

Story Club with George Saunders • 52 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Book clubs Narrative Storytelling
  1. The story 'The Death of Ivan Ilyich' has a powerful ending that raises many thoughts and feelings. It's a perfect example of how storytelling can deeply impact us.
  2. As you read stories, pay attention to what captures your interest or confuses you. These moments can lead to deeper understanding and help improve your own writing.
  3. Discussing stories in a group can enhance your experience. Sharing questions and thoughts can lead to exciting discoveries and insights into the text.

Not Just a Camera, Not Just an Engine

Breaking Smart • 36 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Narratives Storytelling Media Agency Society
  1. We often feel trapped between two narratives: one where people are blindly building without seeing reality, and another where people feel helpless and see a bleak future. Both views are inadequate.
  2. There are stories that help us see and do at the same time. It's important to find a balance between understanding the situation and taking action.
  3. Some narratives not only observe but also help shape reality, which can inspire us to navigate complex contexts in a more powerful way.

AI is an Assistant

Life Since the Baby Boom • 1152 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
📚 Literature Writing Tips Nonfiction Storytelling Publishing
  1. AI can help writers by suggesting ways to make their writing more engaging. This includes adding stories and examples to capture interest.
  2. Using a conversational tone makes writing more relatable to readers. Simple language can help connect better than formal, complex words.
  3. It's important to hook readers emotionally and surprise them with interesting ideas. Engaging them with questions can keep their attention.

A Weekend of New Animation

Animation Obsessive • 8252 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Animation Storytelling Cinematography Visual Arts
  1. The London International Animation Festival (LIAF) showcased many interesting animation films from around the world, featuring unique styles and stories.
  2. Some standout films included 'Adios', which explores a father-son relationship in a beautifully crafted stop-motion style, and 'The Girl with the Occupied Eyes', which creatively addresses modern issues using vibrant animation.
  3. There is a notable trend of children's films at festivals tackling serious themes, suggesting that animations for kids can also tell meaningful and thoughtful stories.

Extreme Pain, Extreme Joy

Culture Study • 2090 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Documentary Photography Women's Health Storytelling
  1. Photographer Maggie Shannon explores women's health, focusing on childbirth and midwifery, to share stories often left untold. She wants to reveal the care and love that happen during this crucial time.
  2. Shannon emphasizes the importance of consent and building relationships with her subjects. She believes that creating trust leads to better, more authentic photographs.
  3. Her work captures the complex emotions surrounding childbirth, showing both the pain and joy involved. Shannon aims to highlight the gray areas of these experiences, rather than just viewing them in black and white.

"Is the Sky Ever Green?"

Story Club with George Saunders • 56 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Storytelling Authors Critique
  1. Writing well isn’t just about following rules; it often involves a natural talent that can’t be forced. Sometimes inspiration comes unexpectedly, like catching a fish out of nowhere.
  2. Specificity in writing helps create a vivid picture, but it can also be useful to think about how your reader reacts to each line as they read. This helps you create a more engaging experience.
  3. Colors in prose can surprise readers and enhance the story. Using unique colors can make readers pause and think, which draws them deeper into the imaginary world.

Who Killed 'Fraidy Cat'?

Animation Obsessive • 9328 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Animation Film Art History Storytelling
  1. The story of 'Fraidy Cat' was about a cat named Oscar who was wrongly accused of swallowing a bird. The film went through many changes during its development and was influenced by Hitchcock's style.
  2. Piet Kroon, the director, faced a lot of studio politics and creative conflicts while trying to bring his vision for 'Fraidy Cat' to life, which included several writers being brought in to make changes.
  3. Despite the project receiving praise and momentum at Disney, it was ultimately shelved when the studio decided to close its Florida branch, which contributed to 'Fraidy Cat' never being completed.

Women Running Barefoot

The Reclamation Era • 239 implied HN points • 09 Sep 24
🎭️ Culture Women's issues Personal Growth Storytelling Emotional Wellbeing Community support
  1. Even when life feels overwhelming, we can find strength to keep going. It's okay to have ups and downs; that’s part of life.
  2. Having a support system is vital, especially during tough times. The connection with others can help us heal and feel less alone.
  3. Sometimes, breaking down is necessary for growth. It's important to feel our emotions and understand that they can lead to positive change.

Why Everywhere We Look, There We Are

Everything Is Amazing • 1547 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Human behavior Cognitive Science Social Responsibility Environmental Issues Storytelling
  1. People often see faces and familiar patterns in everyday things. This strange trick our brain plays is called pareidolia, and it shows how we connect what we see to ourselves.
  2. Our attachment to objects, like clothing or old gear, can be sentimental. This affection helps us care more about the environment and encourages us to repair instead of throw away.
  3. Understanding our cognitive biases, like pareidolia, can help us be more curious and appreciate the world around us. If we learn to see ourselves in everything, we might treat it all with more care.

Hope, Small but Strong

Animation Obsessive • 7355 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art Film Animation Media Storytelling
  1. Michael Sporn created unique animated films that told important stories, even if they were often overlooked. His work was heartfelt and showcased real human experiences.
  2. The film 'Champagne' tells the story of a girl living in a shelter, highlighting her struggles and hope for the future. It's well-made and received awards despite being lesser-known today.
  3. Sporn's animation style was creative and personal, using improvised techniques that added warmth and charm to his films, showing that art can thrive even under tight budgets.

Is Remedy Making an Alan Wake spinoff about Mr. Door?

Textual Variations • 165 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Video Games Entertainment Storytelling Multiverse Game design
  1. Remedy Entertainment is working on an unannounced game that is likely an Alan Wake spinoff called Doors. This project is part of a larger plan to expand their gaming universe.
  2. The new game might focus on characters like Mr. Door and Saga Anderson, exploring themes of parallel universes and interdimensional travel.
  3. The game is still in early development and is expected to be released around 2028 or later, emphasizing a connection to Remedy's other titles.

Pointless Pace Killers

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 3200 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
📚 Literature Memoir Writing Storytelling Psychology Critique
  1. People often compare their boring everyday lives to the exciting highlights they see in stories or on social media, which can make them feel inadequate. It's important to remember that everyone has regular parts of their life that aren't shown.
  2. When writing, it's crucial to focus on the most interesting and meaningful parts of a story instead of trying to capture every detail. The first draft should be for yourself without outside feedback, then later you can edit for the audience.
  3. Stories are designed to be engaging, which means they often skip over mundane details. The best stories focus on conflict and emotion, highlighting only the moments that resonate with the reader.