The hottest Culture Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Can you feel it?

Disaffected Newsletter • 1199 implied HN points • 24 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Mental health Social Issues Personal narratives Community Psychology
  1. Many people feel like something big is about to happen. It's a shared feeling among those who come from troubled family backgrounds.
  2. If you're feeling overwhelmed or crazy about society, you're not alone. A lot of others are feeling the same way.
  3. It's important to recognize that these feelings do not mean you're not sane. It's a normal response to the craziness happening around us.

The Collapse of Hollywood

Development Hell • 276 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Entertainment Media Industry Creativity Challenges
  1. The entertainment industry may seem like it's collapsing with big companies acquiring smaller ones and existing companies facing challenges, but it's not as dramatic as it sounds.
  2. The entertainment industry is driven by profit and existing intellectual property, not creative integrity or risky original ideas.
  3. Despite the challenges in the industry, it's important to stay focused on your work, be resilient, and not be overly concerned with the overall industry difficulties.

What I've been reading to understand the election, a pure-escapist stupid slapstick comedy, and four new tracks I like

Read Max • 974 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Film Comedy Music Politics
  1. Reading is important for understanding current events, like the election. Articles and columns can provide valuable insights.
  2. Sometimes, it's good to escape and have fun. Watching a silly comedy can be a great way to lighten your mood.
  3. Discovering new music can bring joy. Listening to fresh tracks can be a fun experience and help you find new favorites.

⬜ Notes on format

One Thing • 395 implied HN points • 14 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Media Online Culture Community Creativity Authenticity
  1. Neighborhood restaurants like Tail Up Goat focus on a coherent vision, care, and unexpected surprises, qualities desired in media publications.
  2. One Thing newsletter aims for reliability with interest, focusing on quality, specificity, and texture in the content.
  3. The project explores a new form of 'corner-store microblogging' to move away from formulaic content creation, prioritizing authenticity, creativity, and discussions among cultural friends.
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Of Course Fetishes Are Political

Many Such Cases • 1179 implied HN points • 10 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Feminism Political Discourse Social Issues Media Critique
  1. Sex positivity is often seen as the idea that all kinks are personal and shouldn't be criticized. But it's important to understand that sex is also influenced by culture and politics.
  2. Some people see traditional lifestyles, like being a 'tradwife', as just a personal choice, but they can also be tied to specific sexual or cultural fetishes, showing how complicated these desires can be.
  3. We need to be open to discussing and critiquing various fetishes instead of just accepting them as normal. Not all desires are healthy, and we should explore where they come from.

It was not a request

Austin Kleon • 1778 implied HN points • 07 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Film Media
  1. Many people today struggle with hands-on skills, like cutting paper, which shows a disconnect from traditional crafts.
  2. Artists like Steve Keene focus on quantity over perfection, believing that producing more work can lead to better creativity.
  3. There's a shared appreciation for music and movies, with a nostalgia for past artists and a love for engaging stories told through film.

What we publishing people can learn from that Cloudflare layoff TikTok brouhaha

How to Glow in the Dark • 359 implied HN points • 20 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Publishing Media Workplace culture Social media Organizational Culture
  1. Lesson from Cloudflare layoff: There are useful lessons for everyone in handling layoffs and difficult conversations professionally.
  2. Lesson from Brittany's experience: Be prepared, question feedback that doesn't make sense, and stand up for yourself in professional settings.
  3. Lesson on organizational culture: Though industries may differ, there can be overlap in challenges like attracting talent and handling social media crises.

Cyborg Baby

Default Wisdom • 706 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy Literature Society Media Psychology
  1. Adderall and heavy internet use can change how people think and feel. They can make emotions flat and cause mood swings.
  2. There's a shift in writing styles today compared to the past, with longer and more emotional pieces becoming popular. These essays often focus on being authentic rather than just sharing ideas.
  3. The idea of mixing human DNA with robots raises interesting questions about the future of humanity and technology. It's a thought that's worth exploring more deeply.

Big Money, Elites, San Francisco

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 2083 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Books Podcasts Events
  1. Rob Henderson is making TV and podcast appearances discussing topics like elites, hidden hierarchies, and luxury beliefs.
  2. Join Rob Henderson at book events in San Francisco on March 6 and March 7 to discuss his book _Troubled_.
  3. Listen to Rob Henderson on various podcasts like Modern Wisdom and YOUR WELCOME, sharing insights on diverse topics including genetic tests and reinventing oneself.

Community Responses To Bad Behavior

Thing of Things • 275 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture
  1. Communities can respond to bad behavior by doing nothing, which is the most common response for trivial issues.
  2. Whisper networks are a flexible tool for low-drama prevention of bad behavior, but can lead to misinformation and exclusion of vulnerable people.
  3. Callout posts make wrongdoing public but come with significant downsides for all parties involved, leading to intense scrutiny and negative consequences.

How did I get here? A bit about me in brief(ish).

A B’Old Woman • 659 implied HN points • 17 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism Gender Rights Activism Personal Story Social Issues
  1. Women's rights can be taken away, and we should never take our rights for granted. It’s important to stay aware of changes that might seem small but can lead to bigger problems.
  2. Paying attention to what some people call 'trivial matters' is crucial. Issues affecting women can often be dismissed, but they deserve attention to prevent further erosion of rights.
  3. Getting involved in activism can be eye-opening and transformative. Through experiences in advocacy, we can learn about the values and decency in people while also facing challenges.

The Monday Media Diet with Joost Joossen

Why is this interesting? • 663 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media Books Photography Podcasts Music
  1. Joost Joossen uses photography as a way to practice mindfulness and boost his creativity. He believes in the power of daily photography to enhance well-being.
  2. Podcasts are a big part of Joost's media diet, helping him dig deeper into important topics without the stress of breaking news. He enjoys shows that cover culture, politics, and philosophy.
  3. He encourages everyone to visit bookstores and libraries, viewing them as essential places for learning and personal growth.

Single Ladies, Paying on Dates, Tinder Matching

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 2121 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Relationships Gender Books Media Society
  1. Sociometric status, like respect and admiration from peers, can influence well-being more than socioeconomic status, even for introverted individuals
  2. The family structure is noted as a hindrance to central control of social processes in historical Marxist literature. Engels initially included undermining family bonds in the Communist Manifesto draft
  3. Women in their twenties using Tinder are more likely to swipe right for a man with a master's degree compared to one with a bachelor's degree

The coming pro-smoking discourse

Read Max • 3504 implied HN points • 05 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Discourse Trends Social media Subcultures Influencers
  1. There's a prediction that a pro-smoking discourse backed by socio-political identities is gaining momentum.
  2. Historically, contrarian arguments in favor of smoking have existed but are now potentially resurfacing in various circles.
  3. The potential pro-smoking coalition includes The Intellectual Dark Web, cool downtown art and scene kids, and 'trad' health and lifestyle influencers.

American Fiction and The Holdovers

Castalia • 299 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Film Art Literature Critical Theory Social Commentary
  1. The movie 'American Fiction' challenges the current view of wokeness in art. It argues that reducing people to simple racial stereotypes limits true understanding and representation of complex human experiences.
  2. In 'The Holdovers,' the characters struggle with awkwardness and emotional distance. The film shows how hard it can be for people to connect, especially men, and it avoids the usual happy endings found in many films.
  3. Both films show the importance of honesty in storytelling. 'American Fiction' dives into the messy realities of life, while 'The Holdovers' highlights the idea that sometimes keeping things private can be a way to protect oneself.

Real

ASK MOLLY • 550 implied HN points • 30 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Personal Stories Travel
  1. The post is about feeling nostalgia for a changing San Francisco.
  2. The content is for paid subscribers only.
  3. The author Heather Havrilesky reflects on the changing bars in the Mission district.

Things that won't work on me

Disaffected Newsletter • 1119 implied HN points • 04 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism Gender Issues Social Commentary Political Discourse Identity politics
  1. False claims made by some feminists about harassment are seen as untrustworthy and deceitful.
  2. There is frustration with demands for detailed explanations about how to address cultural issues, feeling that it's a waste of time.
  3. Suggestions to tone down anger or criticism are rejected, as the focus is on holding others accountable rather than trying to convince them.

On Arts Competition and Arts Cabals

Castalia • 519 implied HN points • 21 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Competition Self-Expression
  1. Art does not have to be about being the best; it's about personal expression and the journey of creating. Everyone has something interesting to say if they express themselves sincerely.
  2. Competition in art can be helpful and push artists to improve, but it should be personal and not about judging others. It's okay to be ambitious and strive for greatness.
  3. Arts cabals, on the other hand, create unnecessary divisions and can stifle creativity by deciding who gets to be seen or heard. True art should be open and inclusive, valuing all creators.

Inside the Mind of Wang Huning; Christmas Day as Judgement Day

Scholar's Stage Updates • 339 implied HN points • 03 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy Faith & Spirituality Literature History Art & Illustration
  1. Wang Huning identifies America's technological success from a unique perspective, linking it to American values and traditions.
  2. Reflections on Christmas reveal it as a holiday of domestic happiness, charity, and modesty, rather than focusing on heroism or grandeur.
  3. Contrasting American futurism and innovation with societal realities prompts an intriguing discussion on the evolving cultural landscape.

How Woke Led to Cultural Decadence

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 3438 implied HN points • 14 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Film Gender Race Art Pop culture
  1. Cultural critics are concerned about the decline in original storytelling in movies, with studios relying more on established franchises.
  2. The influence of 'woke' ideology on art can limit the creation of compelling works by disregarding the natural differences and gendered characteristics between men and women.
  3. Wokeness has impacted art in areas like race representation in fantasy worlds, creating challenges for new storytelling while established franchises remain unaffected.

Re-post: A Goodbye Love Letter to Madonna Ciccone

Disaffected Newsletter • 1478 implied HN points • 31 Dec 22
🎭️ Culture Pop culture Celebrity Music Feminism Identity Mental health
  1. Madonna has always stood out for her bold and sexual persona, challenging societal norms and expectations for women. This often led to criticism, especially from other women who were jealous or saw her as a threat to feminist ideals.
  2. The personal struggles and traumas she faced growing up shaped her identity and art, revealing a complex character with deep insecurities. Her experiences resonate with many, especially those who relate to her feelings of abandonment and longing for love.
  3. As Madonna ages, her performances have shifted, revealing a sense of vulnerability and loss of the strong icon she once was. This change highlights the emotional challenges of growing older in the spotlight, leaving fans wishing for a more empowered version of her.

Hooked On A Feeling

Everything Is Amazing • 923 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Writing Storytelling Literature Creativity Emotions
  1. Good writing should make readers feel something. When words connect with the senses, it creates a deeper experience, almost making them live the moment.
  2. Felt writing is more impactful because it uses vivid details to evoke memories and emotions. This helps the reader connect with the story and remember it better.
  3. Mastering felt writing can help you communicate more effectively. It's about picking the right details to engage readers quickly and make every word count.

Come hang out with me next week

Sasha's 'Newsletter' • 369 implied HN points • 27 May 25
🎭️ Culture Events Education Literature Personal Development Entertainment
  1. There's an exciting event happening next Monday in San Francisco called Trampoline Hall, featuring funny and unique speakers. It's a fun and unexpected experience that you shouldn't miss.
  2. The author is working on a self-help book with their wife about being effective like her, set to be released in spring 2026. It's based on traits and habits that can be learned and shared.
  3. They are also starting a new Substack together to share more of their wife's insights and ideas. If you enjoy the author's writing, you might like this new project too.

The Fever Dream of Barbenheimer

The Ankler • 294 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Movies Entertainment Celebrities Awards
  1. Barbie and Oppenheimer faced off at the Oscars, but only one emerged as a clear favorite.
  2. Having two popular films as major players is good for attracting viewers, but sets up disappointment for fans of the losing film.
  3. Barbie faced snubs in key categories like best director and best actress nominations, causing disappointment among fans.

When Emily Met Evan

Ladyparts • 439 implied HN points • 19 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Love Stories
  1. The story discusses a humorous and unique love story involving Emily Halpern, a screenwriter known for works like BOOK SMART and 80 FOR BRADY.
  2. The post highlights the role of curiosity and hope in relationships, as seen through the lens of asking people about how they met.
  3. The content aims to provide a heartwarming and uplifting break from the overwhelming world events by sharing relatable and joyous tales of love.

Two Communities

David Friedman’s Substack • 305 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Community Lifestyle Events Ideology Religion
  1. Porcfest and Less Online are two different events with unique cultures. Porcfest has a more casual, practical vibe while Less Online focuses on rationality and future tech.
  2. The people at Porcfest tend to be more traditional, with a mix of families and libertarians, whereas Less Online attracts more intellectuals who often reject conventional beliefs, including religion.
  3. Both events differ greatly in cost and organization, with Less Online being more structured and expensive compared to the decentralized, more affordable Porcfest.

how to be happy in san francisco

bookbear express • 814 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Urban living Friendship Outdoor activities Food culture
  1. Explore outdoor activities like running or hiking regularly. It's a great way to enjoy the beautiful California weather and stay healthy.
  2. Find a few favorite coffee shops near you for those cozy moments. Having a go-to place for your coffee can really brighten your day.
  3. Connect with people around you and build a small friend group. Having a few close friends in the city makes life so much more enjoyable.