The hottest Culture Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

How To Love Classical Music

The Ruffian • 878 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Music Art Education Tradition Performance
  1. Classical music has a rich history and can be a powerful emotional experience, especially when experienced live. Seeing many musicians come together to perform can make the music feel even more alive and impactful.
  2. Investing time and effort into understanding classical music can greatly enhance your appreciation of it. Unlike pop music, classical music may require more focus and patience to enjoy fully.
  3. You don't need to grow up with classical music to appreciate it, but having some exposure helps. Many people discover and love it later in life, and there are many resources available to help you get started.

T.V. News: Pledges, Hiatus, Wong Kar Wai Revisions

Textual Variations • 231 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Film Television Media Art Entertainment
  1. The author plans to take a break from publication to catch up on other priorities, which might cause gaps in the schedule this Spring. They hope to return to a regular posting schedule by May.
  2. Wong Kar Wai's classic film 'In the Mood for Love' is being reissued in China with new footage, and there are discussions about changes that may come with this release.
  3. The new animated series 'Invincible Fight Girl' is praised for its authentic anime style and storytelling, blending action with comedic elements in a unique way.

Whole Activities

Nothing Human • 64 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Sociology Spirituality Recreation Health
  1. Modern life separates many activities from their original context, which can make it hard for us to feel fulfilled. For example, eating has become disconnected from the nourishment our body needs.
  2. Some people try to return to older ways of living or use modern tools to deal with these changes. A better approach might be to find 'whole activities' that meet multiple needs at once.
  3. Whole activities, like team sports or church, can make us feel more human and connected. They satisfy many aspects of our lives, instead of just focusing on one thing.

When Auschwitz Becomes a Theme Park

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 644 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Tourism History Memory Trauma
  1. Tourism at Holocaust sites like Auschwitz can feel wrong and disrespectful to many people. It's strange to combine such serious history with entertainment.
  2. The movie 'A Real Pain' explores the impact of the Holocaust on future generations and how it shapes their identities. It's a personal story about understanding family and history.
  3. There's a disconnect in Poland where some people feel distant or unwelcoming toward Jewish history and culture, which can lead to a cold atmosphere during visits. This ambivalence is troubling for many visitors.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Going Out on Top

We're Gonna Get Those Bastards • 5 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Comics Entertainment Media
  1. It's good to know when to quit before you overstay your welcome. Leaving on a high note can help preserve your legacy.
  2. Creative exhaustion is a real thing. Sometimes it's better to stop while you're ahead rather than risk producing lesser work.
  3. Having a plan for after you leave an industry is important. Staying just for the money can lead to dissatisfaction later in life.

A Brief Theory of the Modern Gift Guide

Culture Study • 3013 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Consumerism Gift Guides Media Studies Curation
  1. Gift guides are super helpful because they show shoppers what's available. They help people find gifts without feeling lost in endless options.
  2. Many gift guides now rely on affiliate links for income. This helps publications stay afloat while still recommending products they think are great.
  3. People enjoy the personal touch of tailored gift suggestions. It's nice to feel like someone understands your tastes and can help you pick the perfect gift.

Heroin Chic Is Back

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1247 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Body Image Fashion Health Media Celebrity
  1. The current trend of using weight-loss drugs like Ozempic has shifted how people view body image and the body positivity movement. Many now see the movement as unrealistic since more people are choosing to be thinner.
  2. The emphasis on thinness in Hollywood is more apparent than ever, with celebrities being scrutinized for their appearance on the red carpet. This has led to a resurgence of the 'heroin chic' aesthetic.
  3. Even celebrities who once promoted body positivity are now opting for weight loss, indicating a change in societal standards regarding body image and attractiveness.

The One and the Many

The Fry Corner • 21522 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Theater Philosophy Psychology Politics Statistics
  1. Groups of people can behave in predictable ways, even if individuals within those groups act randomly. This means we can anticipate the behavior of a crowd better than that of a single person.
  2. Statistics play a big role in predicting risks and behaviors. For example, actuarial tables help insurance companies set rates based on the likelihood of certain events, regardless of the reasons behind those probabilities.
  3. There is often a disconnect between how we view groups of people versus individuals. While we might feel negatively about humanity as a whole, we tend to appreciate and trust the individuals we meet in our daily lives.

A great new sci-fi novel for Iain M. Banks fans, a masterpiece French crime epic, and a great new jangly power-pop album

Read Max • 711 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Books Music Film Literature Art
  1. There's a new sci-fi novel that fans of Iain M. Banks will likely enjoy. It's about space travel and alien intelligence.
  2. A thrilling French crime story set in prison is now available on Netflix. It’s a gripping watch if you like intense dramas.
  3. A fresh album inspired by bands like Hüsker Dü and Big Star has been released. It's catchy and worth a listen.

Vibes Cartel

Unpopular Front • 145 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Cultural Discourse Trend Analysis Political Commentary Media Critique Social movements
  1. 'Vibe shift' often acts like a trend in the stock market, where people want to align politically or culturally with what's popular at the moment.
  2. Media and leaders sometimes push specific vibes as a way to validate their actions, regardless of potential negative effects.
  3. It's important to think critically about these changes instead of just going along with them; we should question why and how these cultural shifts are happening.

Curator

Castalia • 1758 implied HN points • 08 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Publishing Art Criticism Society
  1. Literary writing should introduce new ideas, provide honest experiences, or unleash creativity. Unfortunately, much of what's out there feels repetitive and lacks depth.
  2. There's a growing disconnect between writers and publishers, as publishers often prioritize profits over the integrity of literary work. This leads to a system that might not serve those truly passionate about literature.
  3. The publishing industry is shifting, and some men feel left out of the conversation. It's essential to remember that literature should be about artistic expression, not just political representation.

Pantheons, Panchronos

How the Hell • 129 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Religion History Mythology Literature Philosophy
  1. The Pantheon of the Past represents a nostalgic time when humans relied on the gods. It serves as a reminder of a simpler, carefree era.
  2. The Pantheon of the Present reflects a confusing time where humans struggle to define their identity and values without divine guidance.
  3. The Pantheon of the Future offers hope as it imagines a world alongside intelligent beings. It suggests that while the future may belong to new entities, the values we cherish could still live on.

Nectar Card

Vittles • 241 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Migration Identity Emotions Community Food
  1. Supermarkets can feel different depending on where you are. In Belfast, they felt warm and friendly, while in London, they sometimes feel cold and uninviting.
  2. Running into familiar accents can remind you of home and bring up emotions you didn’t expect. This can happen anywhere, even in a supermarket.
  3. Feeling disconnected from friends and home can lead to moments of vulnerability. Sometimes, small encounters can make you reflect on your experiences and relationships.

How AI Is Quietly Changing What It Means to Be Alone

The Algorithmic Bridge • 1167 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior AI Impact Technology influence
  1. AI is making it easier for people to be alone without feeling lonely. This can be concerning because we may lose the desire to connect with others.
  2. We're spending less time socializing, and our connection to shared experiences is fading. This means we don’t have much in common to talk about anymore.
  3. While it might seem fun to have personalized entertainment and AI companions, it can lead to deeper solitude. We might start to prefer this over real human connections.

Friday Thread: How Are You Planning For Your Senescence?

Culture Study • 2321 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Aging Retirement Wellness Relationships
  1. It's important to think about how you will take care of yourself as you get older. Planning for your elder years can help ease worries and create a sense of security.
  2. Many people learn valuable lessons from watching loved ones age. These experiences can guide how we approach our own aging.
  3. Retirement planning is a common concern. It's good to think about your financial future and make a plan so you can enjoy your later years.

Best of The Free Press: We’re All Gonna Make It

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1799 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Travel Philosophy Parenting
  1. Even in tough times, there's a sense of optimism that things can get better. It's about hoping for change and taking action instead of giving in to despair.
  2. People are finding joy in unexpected places, like celebrating together even when plans go wrong. It's about making the best out of challenging situations.
  3. There’s a shift in how young people view education, with many choosing southern colleges over prestigious Ivy League schools for a more enjoyable experience and a different environment.

Best of The Free Press: Stories That Stirred My Soul

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1697 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Journalism Human Interest Narrative Art Personal essays
  1. It's important to be aware of the things around us that we often overlook. Being humble and curious helps us see the bigger picture in life.
  2. Stories can deeply connect us to the experiences of others, helping us appreciate what we have. They remind us of the beauty and struggles in the world.
  3. Leaving a legacy goes beyond having children; we can create beauty through our actions and creativity. Even small things, like a rosebush, can have a lasting impact.

Why won’t the media use the word misogyny?

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 10569 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media Critique Feminism Celebrity Culture Gender Issues Social media
  1. Misogyny is often at the heart of smear campaigns against women, but the media rarely calls it out. This avoids addressing the real hatred that fuels these attacks.
  2. Women face intense backlash when they speak out about abuse or challenge powerful figures. Their reputations are often targeted in coordinated efforts to discredit them.
  3. Unlike women, men usually do not face the same level of vilification in the media. This unequal treatment shows that misogyny is a significant factor in how public opinion is shaped.

When you get confused

Austin Kleon • 6454 implied HN points • 31 May 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Media Creativity
  1. It's okay if your writing isn't perfect at first. The important thing is to just get it out there.
  2. Taking time to relax and enjoy lighter activities can help balance out harder work, making you more creative.
  3. When you feel confused or stuck, sometimes just getting on your bike and listening to music can clear your mind.

Don't Tell Your Parents

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 170 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Childhood Empathy Entertainment Parenting Perception
  1. Kids see the world differently than adults do. They have unique perspectives and experiences that adults often struggle to understand.
  2. Entertainment for kids used to create a sense of adventure and secrecy, but now it often feels like adults are trying too hard to be relatable. This can take away the excitement for children.
  3. Empathy is important for both kids and adults. Understanding each other's viewpoints can help bridge the gap in communication and lead to better relationships.

Your Interesting Friend

Culture Study • 1872 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Friendship Relationships Socialization Community Personal Stories
  1. It's valuable to look closely at our friendships, especially those with unexpected people. You might find deeper connections than you thought.
  2. Some of the best friendships can come from surprising places, like people we don’t usually connect with. These relationships can teach us a lot.
  3. Exploring what makes friends interesting can help us understand ourselves and others better. It's a fun exercise to share these stories.

Notes on Chapter 32

Life Since the Baby Boom • 691 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature History Art Family Relationships
  1. The characters have reached important milestones in their lives, like successful careers and personal achievements such as adoption. These moments show growth and fulfillment.
  2. The author acknowledges the loss of a friend who contributed to the writing process, highlighting the theme of family and community. This adds an emotional depth to the story.
  3. There is a hint at upcoming events, like the Microsoft antitrust trial, suggesting that the story will intertwine personal narratives with historical events. This keeps the reader engaged with both plot and context.

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.

Indulge Your Internet Addiction By Reading About Internet Addiction

Astral Codex Ten • 11769 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Internet culture Addiction Family Dynamics Mental health Surveys
  1. Many people consider themselves addicted to the internet, and the more time they spend online, the more likely they are to perceive their usage as an addiction. On average, self-reported addicts spend more time online each day.
  2. There is a negative link between internet addiction and life satisfaction. Those who consider themselves more addicted tend to report lower happiness levels.
  3. Parents who restrict their children's internet use when they are young may help reduce the chance of their kids becoming internet addicts as adults. This suggests that early internet habits can influence future behaviors.

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.

A process to process

Austin Kleon • 4955 implied HN points • 14 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Events Reflection
  1. Many people enjoy reflecting on memories, like going through old photos. It's a nice way to process feelings and experiences.
  2. There are always new books being released by different authors. Checking them out can introduce you to fresh ideas and stories.
  3. Gardening teaches us patience. Just like plants take time to grow, our creative projects need time to develop too.

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.

How Do You Balance Responsibilities To Yourself/Your Kin & Your Wider Community?

Culture Study • 3834 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Society Community Responsibility Ethics Decision-making
  1. It's important to figure out how to balance your own needs with the needs of your family and community. This can include deciding between things like private and public schools for your kids.
  2. People face tricky choices when it comes to their careers, like choosing a job that pays well versus one that helps the world. Each choice comes with its own set of feelings and challenges.
  3. Many folks want to hear about how others manage these tough decisions and what emotions come up. Sharing experiences can help everyone understand and support each other better.

A club where you pay thousands to make 'old money' content

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 6001 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Influencer Culture Social media
  1. There's a new club called TuxedoSociety where members pay a lot of money to create 'old money' content for social media. They dress up and act fancy, but it's mainly for show.
  2. The club doesn't have a real location, so members are paying to join a community and for special events. It’s all about networking and pretending to live a luxurious lifestyle.
  3. This trend of creating 'old money' content is rising especially because many young people feel uncertain about their economic futures, offering them a fun way to escape into a fantasy of wealth and stability.

The meaning of, and in, McDonald's

Chris Arnade Walks the World • 2678 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Community Sociology Cultural Studies Media Public Opinion
  1. McDonald's serves as a community hub for many Americans. It provides a comfortable place for people from all walks of life to gather and connect.
  2. Political figures like Trump tap into McDonald's popularity to resonate with average voters. His love for the franchise makes him seem relatable and down-to-earth.
  3. Many people facing challenges, like mental illness, find safety and social interaction in McDonald's. The staff and regulars often look out for each other, creating a supportive environment.

sunday meanpool

bad cattitude • 131 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Humor Media Trends Social Internet
  1. Mean tweets are coming back, which feels nostalgic, like a blast from the past. It's like we've gone back to the 90s in some ways.
  2. Everyone seems to be talking about how those who don't like it will keep complaining. Some people just can’t resist hating on trends.
  3. There's a playful vibe in the air, as if everyone is ready to embrace the fun and chaos of old-school internet culture.

The Absurd Genius of Netflix Christmas Films

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1743 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Film Media Holidays Trends Popular culture
  1. Netflix's holiday films, like 'Hot Frosty,' are intentionally over-the-top and silly. They embrace a kind of absurdity that attracts viewers despite being labeled as bad.
  2. Despite awful reviews, these films become hugely popular, sometimes hitting top viewership numbers on Netflix. People enjoy them even when critics don't.
  3. This phenomenon shows how different audiences have varying tastes. Some viewers love the escapism and fun of these cheesy holiday movies.

Thinking Under Fascism

Dada Drummer Almanach • 505 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art History Media Philosophy Politics
  1. Thinking creatively during tough times can help us hold onto our reality. It's important to find a personal truth even when the world feels distorted.
  2. Art can be a powerful tool against oppressive forces, as shown by Chaplin's famous speech in 'The Great Dictator.' Speaking out against injustice can attract both support and backlash.
  3. History shows us that silencing voices of opposition is a strategy used by fascists. We must stay connected and support one another to resist these challenges in the present.

The Very Best Culture Study Advice

Culture Study • 3206 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Social Trends Personal Development Media Analysis Community Interaction
  1. Finding joy in your life and embracing aging can lead to personal growth and compassion for others. It's amazing to reflect on how much our lives can improve over generations.
  2. Love can often be found in small, everyday moments rather than in grand stories. It's important to cherish and nurture these simple acts of love.
  3. Sometimes, stepping back from career goals can help realign your priorities and lead to a more fulfilling life. It’s about finding balance between work and personal values.

Celebrating One Year of The Soul of Civility - A Special Giveaway!

Civic Renaissance with Alexandra Hudson • 259 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Civility Social norms Public Discourse Literature Communication
  1. The book 'The Soul of Civility' explores how civility can help us get along better, especially during tough times. It encourages respectful conversation even with people we disagree with.
  2. Many important people have praised the book, highlighting its impact and importance for today's society. This recognition shows that the message of civility is resonating widely.
  3. The author has traveled far and wide to discuss civility with various audiences. These talks are helping spread the idea of civil dialogue and connection in a divided world.

Doomscroll: Trevor Paglen

Joshua Citarella's Newsletter • 437 implied HN points • 02 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art Media Politics Technology Design
  1. Trevor Paglen discusses how art connects technology and politics, showing us what can often be hidden or ignored. His work helps us think about the important issues behind new tech.
  2. He talks about 'psyops capitalism', where media creates content based on user behavior, which can shape our views and experiences.
  3. Paglen compares early UFO stories to today's social media disinformation, highlighting how misinformation has always been a part of our society.

What We’re Grateful For

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2926 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Thanksgiving Gratitude Family Traditions American history
  1. Thanksgiving is a unique American holiday where people take a moment to express gratitude for what they have. It's a time to pause, reflect, and appreciate the love and connections in our lives.
  2. Even amid political divides, it’s important to remember the value of family gatherings and shared meals. Coming together can help bridge differences and create lasting memories.
  3. Gratitude comes from various sources - from simple pleasures like good health, family, and friends, to shared experiences and creative innovations that improve our lives.

Cultural methodology

The Sociology of Business • 319 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Cultural Trends Brand Strategy Social Dynamics Consumer behavior
  1. There are two important steps in cultural research: first, discover and inform by understanding a company's business goals and existing materials. This helps create a clear strategy based on culture.
  2. The '4Cs' analysis looks at culture, category, company, and consumer to identify areas for growth and opportunity. It involves diving deep into market trends and understanding customer values.
  3. To effectively communicate a brand's purpose, businesses need to align their strategy with cultural influences and ensure it resonates with their audience.