The hottest Culture Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Culture Topics

Green Seduction

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 459 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Nature Literature History Plants Environment
  1. Plants are amazing and can be found everywhere, even in unexpected places. They are essential for life and create environments where other creatures can thrive.
  2. Experiencing and enjoying plants can really connect us to nature, especially in cities. Whether it's in our backyards or parks, plants can bring us joy and comfort.
  3. It's important to keep the language around nature alive. Losing words related to plants and nature can dull our connection and understanding of the world around us.

A creepy sci-fi horror series with a great conceptual hook, a strangely gripping movie about Nazi bureaucracy, and more

Read Max • 553 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Film Literature Music Media Art
  1. There's a really creepy sci-fi horror series that has a cool concept. It sounds like it could be a great watch for horror fans.
  2. A gripping movie about Nazi bureaucracy is highlighted. It might be particularly interesting if you enjoy shows like Andor.
  3. The roundup includes new music and essays discussing big ideas like AI's impact on jobs. These topics are worth exploring for those interested in the future.

Why there's no "Joe Rogan of the left"

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 1140 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Entertainment Politics Society Identity
  1. There's no 'Joe Rogan of the left' because Rogan appeals to a non-political crowd. To engage more people, the left needs to communicate in spaces outside traditional politics.
  2. Rogan has created a strong connection with his audience by producing a lot of content. This helps him fight loneliness for listeners who feel like he is their friend.
  3. People are drawn to fun and relatable content. If the left wants to attract more followers, they need to focus on building positive relationships instead of criticizing others.

Top Links 811 Dali and the dollar. Making the most of the “longevity dividend”. The fall of the Roman Republic and how a Baywatch star became a Berlin hero.

Chartbook • 400 implied HN points • 27 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art History Media Entertainment Literature
  1. The phrase 'Avida Dollars' was used to mock Salvador Dali, but he took it as a compliment. It shows how creative minds can turn criticism into praise.
  2. German car exports to China are dropping, which is making things tough for Europe. This could have big effects on their economy and job market.
  3. The newsletter shares various insightful links, encouraging readers to explore different topics. This helps keep readers informed about various global issues.
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Tomorrow is February

Austin Kleon • 2058 implied HN points • 31 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Holidays Traditions Art Inspiration Personal Growth
  1. February is the shortest month, making it a good time to start new habits or challenges. You could try reading more, journaling, or even going for daily walks.
  2. Many cultures have special days in February to look forward to, like Imbolc and Candlemas, which can help bring a bit of hope during the winter months.
  3. It's okay to take it easy in February. It's a time to go with the flow rather than force productivity, maybe even pampering yourself a bit with activities that bring joy.

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.

Shopping as a "hobby"

Maybe Baby • 602 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🎭️ Culture Fashion Lifestyle Art Commerce Trends
  1. Shopping can be seen as a fun hobby for many people. It mixes creativity with the thrill of finding new items.
  2. There is a debate about shopping being a form of art or just a big money-making business. This makes people think about what fashion really means.
  3. The way we view shopping affects how we think about style and trends in our society. It's important to understand both sides of this conversation.

Tuesday Thread: What Are You Working On?

Culture Study • 1000 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Arts Lifestyle Traditions Social Communities
  1. Engaging in gardening can be a fun and rewarding hobby. It allows you to witness small changes, like a plant budding, which can bring joy.
  2. Taking cuttings from plants can help you expand your garden without needing to buy new ones. It's a clever way to grow your collection.
  3. Working on a personal project or hobby can be a great distraction. It offers both relaxation and a sense of accomplishment as you see progress.

All good things must begin (again)

Austin Kleon • 2178 implied HN points • 10 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Writing Expression Creativity
  1. Starting fresh can be tough, but it's okay to take your time. Sometimes it helps to focus on the little things that motivate you every day.
  2. Writing isn’t always about creating new ideas; it's also about rediscovering old ones and sharing them again. What you say can still be valuable even if others have said it before.
  3. Using notebook affirmations can uplift your spirit and give you the push you need to create. Remind yourself of your goals and why you love writing to stay inspired.

Bucknell Graduation

Splattern • 179 implied HN points • 13 May 24
🎭️ Culture Social Events Higher education Personal Reflection Family Dynamics Celebration
  1. Seeing the graduation was a surprise. The students really embraced the moment and had a lot of fun, even if it meant pushing their limits.
  2. People often feel uncertain during big life changes, like graduation. This makes them focus more on enjoying the present instead of worrying about the future.
  3. Family gatherings can change over time. It was nice to see everyone getting along and sharing laughs while helping each other, showing how relationships evolve.

Transcript: Katherine Brodsky

Lean Out with Tara Henley • 432 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Books Psychology History Social Issues Personal experiences
  1. Guest Katherine Brodsky shares insights on speaking out against orthodoxies in the age of outrage.
  2. Brodsky's personal experience of being mobbed online led her to write her book, 'No Apologies'.
  3. Growing up in a household that talked about self-silencing under communism shaped Brodsky's perspective on censorship and free speech.

An emotion I can't name

Disaffected Newsletter • 1618 implied HN points • 07 May 23
🎭️ Culture Emotions Family Tradition Relationships Memory
  1. It's common to feel complex emotions that are hard to label. Sometimes, experiences can touch us deeply without having a clear name for the feeling.
  2. Receiving a meaningful gift from a loved one can evoke strong emotions. It shows that someone cares about us and wants to share something special.
  3. Family relationships and their expressions of love can shape our emotional experiences. Understanding these moments can help us recognize and appreciate our feelings better.

WILD, WILD WOMEN

Secretum Secretorum • 1212 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Fashion Literature History Photography
  1. Women have unique qualities that make them strong and wild. Embracing those qualities can lead to empowerment.
  2. Celebrating women's individuality is important. Each woman's story adds to the rich diversity of experiences.
  3. Creativity and expression through art are key ways to showcase and appreciate women's strength.

I need to stop being Sisyphus

Disaffected Newsletter • 959 implied HN points • 12 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Gender Issues Relationships Societal norms Personal Growth Mental health
  1. It's hard to please everyone, especially when it comes to people's opinions about men. You can't change people's views, no matter how hard you try.
  2. Chasing the idea of being seen as a 'good man' can lead to frustration. It's like trying to roll a boulder uphill with no end in sight.
  3. Instead of trying to meet unrealistic expectations, focus on being true to yourself and your values. That's more important than seeking approval from others.

'Gone With the Wind': The Explosive Lost Scenes

The Ankler • 884 implied HN points • 01 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Film History Race relations Social Impact
  1. At the Atlanta premiere of Gone With the Wind, there was a hidden civil war over how slavery should be depicted in the movie, leading to the exclusion of some intense scenes.
  2. Gone With the Wind, a highly successful film, faced criticism for its romanticized portrayal of slavery, which influenced perceptions of race relations worldwide.
  3. The legacy of Gone With the Wind is complex, with debates surrounding its portrayal of slavery, the impact on culture, and the role of key figures like Hattie McDaniel in the movie's history.

The Most English Man in the World

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 996 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Travel Politics Media Society History
  1. The author humorously explores British culture and customs while visiting London for the first time. They joke about misunderstandings, like 'mushy peas' being a real food and the confusion around British geography.
  2. The author learns about Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, a prominent British politician, who is described as very traditional. They explain how he became a 'sir' through a special honor from a former prime minister.
  3. The article highlights the author's curiosity about British life and their playful approach to learning about a different culture through funny anecdotes and questions.

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 589 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Media Lifestyle Personal Growth
  1. The importance of sticking with things even when they seem slow or dull can lead to valuable insights. Don't rush through; take your time to absorb it all.
  2. Getting enough sleep is crucial for both physical and mental health. When sleep is lacking, life can feel tougher and more challenging.
  3. Reading essays and deep articles can help us connect with our emotions and experiences. They often reveal deeper truths about being human.

Life update

Escaping Flatland • 530 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture
  1. The post shares a life update and fragments of essays by Henrik Karlsson.
  2. Some parts were cut from a previous draft, with a small update on Henrik and Johanna's activities included.
  3. The post is intended for paid subscribers to read more content by subscribing.

How much of the planet should we harm for our comfort?

The Novelleist • 434 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Philosophy Environment Science fiction Society
  1. It's important to think about how much harm we cause to nature for our comfort. Finding a balance is key for both humans and the environment.
  2. Humans often prioritize their comforts, but this can sometimes harm ecosystems. We must consider the impact of our choices on nature and other species.
  3. Technology can improve our lives, but we should aim to use it sustainably. The future should focus on a balance that benefits everyone, including the planet.

🚀 Beyond 'The Jetsons': A new vision of a fantastic future that never was

Faster, Please! • 1096 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Film Design Futurism Architecture Literature
  1. Stories about the future are really important. They can inspire people to be more creative and push for new technologies.
  2. Dystopian tales have been popular for a long time, which makes the need for positive and hopeful stories about the future even greater.
  3. With technology changing fast, like AI and space travel, we need more stories that remind us to dream big and embrace progress.

Nights Without Dreams

Crumpstack • 432 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Nightlife Subcultures Art Music
  1. The downtown Manhattan scene is divided into two main groups: the 'politicos' and the 'hipsters'.
  2. Sovereign House is a popular spot for Yarvinist DIY-space nightlife.
  3. There is a symbiotic relationship between the 'politicos' and the 'hipsters' in maintaining the scene's allure.

Are Men and Women Different?

Fake Noûs • 1079 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Gender Studies Psychology Evolutionary Theory Sociology Philosophy
  1. Men and women are different in many ways, especially on average, like strength and interests. It’s important to recognize these differences, but it doesn’t mean every individual fits those patterns.
  2. Some people believe these differences come from culture, but many differences are actually seen across different societies and even species. This suggests they are more than just social norms.
  3. The main reason for these differences comes from how men and women reproduce and invest in offspring. This impacts behavior, risk-taking, and interests, which helps explain why men and women often act the way they do.

Shakespeare Schedule 2025

The Common Reader • 1275 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Theater Arts Education History
  1. There is a schedule for reading Shakespeare's plays throughout 2025. Each play will be discussed on a Sunday at 7 PM UK time over Zoom.
  2. The schedule includes various famous plays like 'Richard III', 'Midsummer Night’s Dream', and 'Macbeth'.
  3. Participants will receive a Zoom link the day before each meeting to join the discussion.

You catch more flies with vinegar

Disaffected Newsletter • 1059 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Philosophy Society Tradition Language Art
  1. Some common sayings might have their meanings reversed over time. A phrase like 'blood is thicker than water' could mean the opposite of what we think it does.
  2. The saying 'you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar' isn't accurate when it comes to actual flies. Sometimes vinegar works better for attracting pests like fruit flies.
  3. Making a fruit fly trap with vinegar is simple. Just mix vinegar in a jar with holes in the lid, and the flies won't be able to escape after they get in.

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.

The Tachibana Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1025 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Music Art History Fashion Travel
  1. Buying used records can make music purchases more special. It allows for a personal connection to the places visited.
  2. The Tohru Aizawa Quartet created a rare jazz album in the 1970s, originally made as a business card. The album stands out because of its unique backstory and quality.
  3. Despite their main careers being outside music, the band delivered impressive compositions that show their talent. Their music can be enjoyed by listening online, even if you can't find the physical record.

And then what?

Austin Kleon • 2278 implied HN points • 16 Dec 22
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Education Media
  1. It's important to think about what comes next after finishing a big task. Asking 'And then what?' can help guide your next steps.
  2. We often shape ourselves to fit what machines can do. It's surprising how much we adapt to be like technology.
  3. Kids today are pushing back against social media culture. They care less about likes and more about real connections.

You Want to Hate AI Slop But You Absolutely Love It

The Algorithmic Bridge • 509 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Philosophy Technology Psychology
  1. People often prefer AI-generated content over human-made, even if they think they dislike it. This shows how our preferences can be influenced by our biases.
  2. The brain seeks to create a coherent story and will rationalize its choices, even if it means rewriting how we feel about something. This happens when faced with conflicting ideas.
  3. Experiences matter more than the source of the content. If something moves you or makes you think, the origin may not be as important as we believe.