The hottest Literature Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Literature Topics

[OVERRIDE]

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 673 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
📚 Literature Narrative Creative Writing Literary Criticism Storytelling
  1. The work consists of ten chapters that form a serial metafiction written by the same author, despite featuring different fictional names. Each chapter contributes to a bigger story that explores themes of authorship and reality.
  2. The author emphasizes that from this point onward, nothing else can be considered a part of the 'Work'. Any future contributions under fictional names will either be collaborations or individual essays, and misunderstanding them as part of the 'Work' is a reader's concern.
  3. There is a call for deeper engagement from readers to understand the complexities of internet-specific fiction. The author aims to challenge readers' attention spans and encourages them to explore the narrative more richly.

How to write

Striking 13 • 2475 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
📚 Literature Writing Journalism Non-fiction Curiosity Emotions
  1. Writing is about being in touch with your feelings and having confidence in sharing them.
  2. Good non-fiction writing starts with curiosity and understanding that everything can be interesting if approached correctly.
  3. Boredom and frustration when writing is a guide to improve the content for readers by finding ways to present information in engaging ways.

Every writing book is good

Austin Kleon • 3317 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
📚 Literature Writing Books Authors Creativity
  1. Every writing book can help you start writing. Even if it feels hard, just getting words on a page is a big step.
  2. It's normal for your first drafts to be messy and not great. Writing is a process, and you can fix things up later.
  3. Writing can be tough for everyone, no matter how many books you've written. It's okay to feel challenged and scared about creating something new.

The Future of Reading

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 794 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
📚 Literature Reading Writing Cultural critique Media theory Literary Trends
  1. Reading and writing are changing as new technologies emerge. The way people engage with texts is evolving, such as using visual signs and orality, like in Snapchat.
  2. Young people are still writing a lot, especially through fan fiction, even if it's different from traditional literature. This form of writing allows them to express their creativity.
  3. There are concerns that the current generation is losing interest in classic literature, but there are ideas on how to make these works more appealing to young readers. Solutions may include breaking up long books into smaller, more engaging editions.
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Ivan: the Good (?) Years

Story Club with George Saunders • 48 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Classic Analysis Essays Discussion
  1. The story goes back to the start of Ivan's life, not just the end. This shows a different side of his character development.
  2. Pyotr is not the main focus of the story after all. Instead, the story centers around Ivan, the one in the coffin.
  3. Readers might be surprised by the shifts in focus and the narrative structure, creating an unexpected reading experience.

necessary scenes

sweater weather • 6171 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
📚 Literature Storytelling Character development Novel Analysis
  1. Some argue that certain elements in art, like sex scenes, are unnecessary, but they actually serve to broaden the depth and concerns of the work.
  2. The concept of necessity in art is subjective and varies based on individual preferences and reading agendas.
  3. What may seem unnecessary in a piece of art to one person could be crucial to another's interpretation or understanding.

The 13 New Books to Expand Your Mind in 2023

Granted • 7906 implied HN points • 28 Jan 23
📚 Literature Fiction Self-help Philosophy Nonfiction Motivation
  1. Tim Urban's book 'What's Our Problem?' offers insightful analysis on societal issues and how to combat polarization and tribalism.
  2. Nedra Glover Tawwab's 'Drama Free' provides valuable advice on handling family relationships, emphasizing the importance of mental health in families.
  3. Bill Hammack's 'The Things We Make' unravels the engineering behind human masterpieces, making engineering concepts accessible even for those who don't love math.

Sometimes Readers Prefer Paperbacks

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 965 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
📚 Literature Books Memoirs Reading Social Class Publishing
  1. Many people still enjoy reading physical books like paperbacks. There's something special about holding a book compared to digital formats.
  2. The author highlights key themes in their book, such as social class and upward mobility. These topics are important for understanding today's society.
  3. The author faced challenges with book promotion, including bias in bestseller lists. This shows how difficult it can be to gain recognition in the publishing world.

Reading Notes

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 691 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
📚 Literature Reading Culture Digital Media Cultural Theory
  1. Reading habits are changing, and many people have less time or interest in immersing themselves in traditional books. This shift may be due to economic pressures and the availability of digital media.
  2. The rise of digital screens impacts how we read and understand texts. The experience of reading is now intertwined with our interactions online, leading to new forms of engagement and understanding.
  3. Despite the decline of traditional reading, there is potential for new and exciting forms of literacy to emerge. It's important to adapt and discover how we can find value in these changes.

The Future Belongs to The Imposter Writers

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 739 implied HN points • 19 Jun 24
📚 Literature Writing Creativity Authors Publishing Inspiration
  1. Feeling fear and self-doubt is normal and can even help you grow. It means you're pushing yourself and trying new things.
  2. Everyone has their own journey, so don't compare your start to someone else's success. You are exactly where you need to be right now.
  3. Instead of letting fear hold you back, use it as a motivator. Embrace your feelings and take risks for the chance of amazing rewards.

Unplanned obsolescence

Vague Blue • 1537 implied HN points • 22 Apr 24
📚 Literature Style Realism Marketplace Rejection
  1. Literary careerism has evolved into a multifaceted concept encompassing financial sustainability, clout chasing, and cultivating online personas.
  2. The contemporary literary landscape reflects an intertwined relationship between traditional realism, artistic sensibility, and the influence of market forces.
  3. The concept of 'selling out' in literature has shifted within the landscape of late capitalism, where clout and societal status play a significant role in artistic production.

Common Sense and Sensibility

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 30 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📚 Literature Literary Criticism Publishing Cultural Commentary Creative Writing
  1. A new magazine called 'The Metropolitan Review' has launched, focusing on diverse voices and unique perspectives in literature and criticism.
  2. The goal is to embrace individual writers' styles without enforcing a strict house style, allowing for more creative freedom and expression.
  3. The rise of platforms like Substack shows that there’s a growing wave of fresh, independent writing that can challenge traditional media and engage readers.

From Beginner to Substack Expert | Interview with Sarah Fay

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 1398 implied HN points • 27 Apr 24
📚 Literature Writing Tips Publishing Author interviews Content creation Online Platforms
  1. Many publishers are encouraging writers to use Substack to connect with readers and promote their older works. It's a good way to keep selling books that might otherwise be forgotten.
  2. Building a network on Substack is key to success. It's not just about writing; you need to engage with your audience and connect with others in the writing community.
  3. Unlike social media, Substack allows writers to grow their presence without constantly chasing trends. It offers a supportive environment where writers can focus on quality and creativity.

Seashells

The Commonplace • 638 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Prose Fiction Essays Writing
  1. Seashells are treasures found on the beach, reminding us of nature's beauty. They come in many shapes and forms, each with its own story.
  2. As children, we are curious and eager to learn about sea creatures like crabs and mollusks. This curiosity helps us connect with the world around us.
  3. Seashells symbolize the passage of time, being both temporary and eternal. They represent memories that change with the seasons but are always present in our lives.

The 11 New Idea Books to Spring into Summer

Granted • 5690 implied HN points • 30 Apr 23
📚 Literature Motivation Work Social Change Thinking
  1. Motivation is key: Explore books on perfectionism, finding motivation, and unleashing creativity to overcome obstacles and move forward.
  2. Work-life balance matters: Discover titles advocating for good quality jobs, designing work around life, and finding significance in work for a fulfilling career.
  3. Social change and innovation are crucial: Learn from books on sparking revolutions, promoting inclusivity, and reimagining government for a more inclusive and digital future.

Medium Isn't Dead. It's The Era of Smaller and New Writers.

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 1198 implied HN points • 09 May 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Authors Online Platforms Content creation
  1. Many new and smaller writers are finding success and growing their audience on platforms like Medium. It's a good time for fresh voices to emerge and make their mark.
  2. Big-name writers leaving Medium often create noise, but writers should trust their instincts and explore their own path instead of just following trends.
  3. The landscape of writing platforms is changing, but opportunities still exist. Writers can still build careers and connections if they put in the effort and adapt to new demands.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 539 implied HN points • 03 Jul 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Non-fiction Cultural critique Historical Analysis
  1. Vinson Cunningham's _Great Expectations_ blends personal reflections and cultural commentary but lacks a clear story structure, leaving readers unsure of its purpose. The writing feels overdone at times, trying to impress rather than convey meaningful insights.
  2. Hugh Wilford's _The CIA: An Imperial History_ offers a comprehensive look at the CIA's role in American foreign policy, framing it as an imperial organization rather than a mere intelligence agency. It dives into the agency's history without dwelling on popular conspiracy theories, presenting a more nuanced view.
  3. Both authors highlight a disconnect between personal experiences and broader cultural narratives. Cunningham struggles to make his memories relevant, while Wilford presents the CIA's actions as complex but often poorly understood, emphasizing that there's more to uncover about the agency's true impact.

Telling the Bees

The Abbey of Misrule • 280 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Non-fiction Essays Mythology
  1. Domnoc, a sixth-century figure, had a special bond with bees, often feeling more connected to them than to people. This highlights a deep connection to nature.
  2. He was seen as a different kind of person, wandering and dreaming, suggesting that he didn’t feel entirely at home in the human world. This idea resonates with many who feel out of place in society.
  3. The notion that humans come from somewhere else and are on a journey back can inspire feelings of longing and purpose. It reminds us to reflect on our deeper connections and origins.

A chat with John Grisham

The Watch • 529 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Authors Books Interviews
  1. John Grisham focuses on wrongful convictions and the flaws in the criminal justice system. His new book, 'Framed', sheds light on these issues and emphasizes the importance of reform.
  2. The conversation around the innocence movement highlights the challenges in getting justice for those wrongfully convicted. There's a lack of accountability among those involved in these cases, making it hard to address systemic mistakes.
  3. Everyday people can make a difference by engaging with those in prison, whether through writing letters or supporting innocence organizations. Small acts of kindness can provide hope to those who feel forgotten.

The Third Person

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 170 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
📚 Literature Writing Education Voice Identity Self-Expression
  1. Writing in the third person can feel freeing because it allows for distance from personal emotions. It helps some writers feel less vulnerable and more objective in their work.
  2. Many people struggle with expressing personal views in writing, often feeling it's arrogant to use 'I'. This can create a barrier to authentic self-expression in writing.
  3. Finding one's true writing voice can come from personal growth and life experiences over time, rather than just practice in writing. It's an ongoing journey of self-discovery.

What a world

Letters of Note • 2810 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
📚 Literature Letters Family Death Memories
  1. A grieving father shares a heartfelt letter to close friends about his son's passing and the emotional moments leading to his organ donation.
  2. The letter depicts the father's pain, the family's love, the decision to donate organs, and the bittersweet beauty of the world amidst tragedy.
  3. The story highlights the depth of familial love, the emotional intensity of saying goodbye to a loved one, and the impact of organ donation.

Casting a Wide Net

Story Club with George Saunders • 67 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Literary Criticism
  1. The story focuses on the theme of life and death, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives. It's about understanding what really matters as we face inevitable change.
  2. Through the character of Ivan Ilyich, readers are invited to explore the emptiness of a life lived solely for societal expectations. It shows the struggle between personal happiness and social pressures.
  3. The discussion emphasizes the importance of connecting deeply with our experiences. It suggests that true fulfillment comes from being authentic and valuing our own unique journeys.

Agents, Awards, Taylor Swift, The Day Job, and This Very Thing You Are Reading

Notes from a Small Press • 26 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
📚 Literature Publishing Writing Awards Cultural Commentary
  1. It’s important for writers to understand the role of agents in the publishing industry. Agents can help negotiate deals and represent a writer's best interests.
  2. Awards can play a big role in a writer's visibility and career. Winning an award can open doors and attract new readers.
  3. It's okay to have other jobs while pursuing writing. Many successful authors started out with a day job before making it big.

On Bonfire Night

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 449 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
📚 Literature Reading Writing Renaissance Literacy
  1. Reading and literacy are changing, and many people seem less interested in understanding where their information comes from. This could mean we're heading back to a time when knowledge is just for a few elite people instead of everyone.
  2. Our relationship with reading might be vital right now, especially in a world filled with distractions. We should focus on the best literature and ideas to maintain the depth of our reading experience.
  3. It's important to share the value of reading with others. Like early believers sharing their faith, we must show people how reading has transformed our lives and encourage them to experience that too.

Office Hours

Story Club with George Saunders • 77 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Authors Literary Analysis Reading
  1. When writing with two characters, ask if both are really needed in the story. Sometimes one character might be enough.
  2. Look at the important events in your story and see how each character adds to them. One character might end up being more essential than the other.
  3. Try cutting down the slower character's sections to meet key story moments. This can help balance their pacing and keep the story flowing better.

Words of love

Austin Kleon • 2537 implied HN points • 13 Feb 24
📚 Literature Poetry Quotes Essays Love
  1. Love can be seen as an ongoing action, like making bread. It's something we need to keep nurturing and renewing over time.
  2. Our connections with others transform us. The people we love shape who we are and who we become.
  3. Each person's experience of love is unique. No two loves are the same, so comparing them doesn't really make sense.

Literary Generations

Life and Letters • 559 implied HN points • 28 Jun 24
📚 Literature Literary theory Author studies Cultural History
  1. Authors can help us understand literature, but it's tricky when we look at many of them. Sometimes, their lives don't match the timing of their works.
  2. Generations matter in literary history, as they show how styles and ideas change over time. But it’s not always easy to categorize writers this way.
  3. The life cycle of a writer influences their work, showing that when they're born can affect their style. This connection between life and literature is important.

no redemption arcs in hell

sweater weather • 5346 implied HN points • 16 May 23
📚 Literature Redemption Morality Fiction Character development Narrative analysis
  1. Redemption in fiction has evolved from demanding likable characters to morally gray characters proving themselves worthy.
  2. A show like _Succession_ illustrates the complexities of morality within its storyworld and challenges traditional redemption arcs.
  3. Moments of grace in fiction, where characters are seen and accepted without judgment, can be more impactful than traditional redemption arcs.

Letter to Refaat Alareer

The Chris Hedges Report • 302 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Writing Human Rights Censorship Conflict
  1. Poetry can hold immense power, serving as a way to express emotions like hope, loss, and resistance against oppression. It connects people and keeps their stories alive.
  2. Many individuals, including students, journalists, and academics, are facing serious consequences, such as losing jobs or being silenced, for speaking out against injustice and violence.
  3. Remembering the stories of those who have suffered, like Palestinian poet Refaat Alareer, is crucial. Their voices continue to resonate and challenge the narrative imposed by oppressive forces.

a close read of my MFA statement of purpose

sweater weather • 4166 implied HN points • 20 Nov 23
📚 Literature Writing Influences Craft Experience
  1. A statement of purpose for MFA programs is about explaining your reasons for pursuing the degree.
  2. In writing, the concept of 'purpose' can be elusive and complex, leading to a struggle in articulating one's creative goals.
  3. Regardless of the challenges faced during the MFA program application process, it's essential to stay true to your writing ambitions and seek to make those aspirations a reality.

Essays on writing, life, and my journey.

Neckar’s Notes • 6 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
📚 Literature Writing Essays Personal Growth Self-reflection Creative Expression
  1. Writing can help us find meaning in difficult experiences. It lets us explore our emotions and transform our pain into something valuable.
  2. Being honest and writing from the heart is important. It helps us connect with ourselves and our readers genuinely.
  3. Life is about the journey, not just the end goal. We should focus on growing and appreciating where we are right now.

Bored in an exam

Obvious Bicycle • 526 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Writing Education Creativity Expression
  1. Students often feel bored during exams and sometimes struggle to stay focused. It's common for thoughts to wander and distractions to creep in.
  2. There's a mutual understanding between teachers and students about the exam stress, but it can feel awkward when everyone knows it.
  3. Many students wish they had studied more before the exam, realizing too late that they haven't prepared properly. This leads to a cycle of regret during the test.

"Were I a writer, and dead..."

Five’s Substack • 219 implied HN points • 08 Aug 24
📚 Literature Criticism Theory Biography
  1. The idea of the 'death of the author' suggests that the author's intentions shouldn't dictate how we understand their work. Instead, we should focus on the text itself and what it communicates.
  2. Experiencing literary theory can be overwhelming and exciting, especially for students. It often opens the door to new questions and perspectives that challenge previous understanding.
  3. Roland Barthes encourages readers to think about the little details in life. Even small aspects, like a mark on someone's shoe, can carry deeper meanings and connections.

Summer reading assignment

Austin Kleon • 7713 implied HN points • 30 May 23
📚 Literature Reading Books Libraries Education Writing
  1. Get a library card to access tons of free resources. Libraries offer books, movies, and more without any cost!
  2. Don’t hesitate to ask a librarian for help. They can give you a tour and show you how to use all the library services.
  3. Try to borrow something from the library. It's a great way to support local libraries and start reading!

My Top 10 Books From 2023

The Pomp Letter • 3776 implied HN points • 27 Dec 23
📚 Literature Fiction Biography Self-help
  1. Reading is a valuable way to learn and gain fresh ideas across different topics.
  2. Books recommended by successful individuals can provide insights and lessons applicable to personal and professional growth.
  3. Investing time in reading can be rewarding and essential for personal development and career advancement.