Arjun’s Newsletter

Arjun’s Newsletter explores the intersection of literature, personal reflection, and the impact of technology on imagination and society. It consistently emphasizes the value of reading, critical thinking, and the richness that diverse cultural experiences and literature bring to understanding human emotions, creativity, and the complexities of life.

Literature Personal Reflection Technology's Impact Cultural Experiences Creativity and Imagination Critical Thinking Human Emotions

The hottest Substack posts of Arjun’s Newsletter

And their main takeaways

The Tintin Opera House

6 implied HN points • 13 Sep 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Architecture Storytelling History
  1. The Tintin Opera House was a remarkable building in Sarasota, Florida, created by the Tintin brothers.
  2. Dick Dawson, an enterprising New Yorker, transformed the failing venue into a successful establishment.
  3. After financial struggles and tragic events, the Tintin brothers had to sell the opera house, leading to its eventual transformation and loss of original beauty.

Ink #2

6 implied HN points • 03 Sep 23
📚 Literature Short Story Novels Music
  1. The writer shared their experiences and observations after moving back to Brooklyn, highlighting the diverse conversations and atmosphere of ideas in New York City.
  2. The best short story recommendation was given for 'The Stone Boy', emphasizing its depth and simple prose without spoilers, encouraging readers to reflect on its content.
  3. Book reviews were shared for 'To Have and Have Not' by Ernest Hemingway and 'Summing Up' by Somerset Maugham, with critical analysis and recommendation for aspiring writers.

Rafael

10 implied HN points • 05 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Life Relationships Community Values Experience
  1. The narrator had a silent competition with an old man for a sunny table at a cafe in Leblon.
  2. The old man's health deteriorated, leading to his move to a small town near his daughter.
  3. The narrator reflects on the passing of time, companionship, and changes in life observed through the old man's story.

Ink #3

3 implied HN points • 10 Sep 23
📚 Literature Short Story Video
  1. Arjun shares his favorite reads and insights weekly on his Substack.
  2. Chekhov's short stories are rich in character and complexity.
  3. F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Crack Up' offers a somber reflection on ambition and tragedy.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Ink #1

3 implied HN points • 20 Aug 23
📚 Literature Short Story Novel Music
  1. Arjun shares his favorite cultural experiences each week, like a jazz performance in New York
  2. He recommends reading J.D. Salinger's short story 'For Esmé—with Love and Squalor' for its emotional depth
  3. Arjun suggests Graham Greene's 'Our Man in Havana' for a light, humorous read about espionage during the Cuban Missile Crisis

The Quiet American by Graham Greene

3 HN points • 16 Aug 23
📚 Literature Book Reviews Novel Analysis Literary Criticism Historical Fiction
  1. Graham Greene, the author of The Quiet American, led a fascinating life with experiences that influenced his writing.
  2. The novel accurately predicted the US invasion of Vietnam and explored complex themes of American involvement.
  3. Through its impartial portrayal of characters and themes, The Quiet American challenges readers to think critically about real-world complexities.

Contemplating New York: In a City With Everything, What Do You Want?

1 HN point • 22 Sep 23
📚 Literature Book review City life Character analysis Themes
  1. Moving to New York can be overwhelming with temptations and responsibilities, especially for young adults.
  2. The novel 'Bright Lights, Big City' captures the essence of New York City through the protagonist's struggles and temptations.
  3. The book highlights the conflict between who the protagonist wants to be and who he really is, showcasing the allure, challenges, and self-discovery in the city.

Of Human Bondage

1 HN point • 30 Aug 23
📚 Literature Book Reviews Novel Analysis
  1. Literature aims to bridge the gap between human experiences and emotions through storytelling.
  2. Successful writers create intimacy by making readers feel closely connected to the characters and emotions in the story.
  3. Of Human Bondage is praised for its ability to capture universal human emotions and experiences in a compelling narrative.

Writer

1 HN point • 05 Jun 23
📚 Literature Writing Author Books Language
  1. Writing is a challenging business, but calling yourself a writer is important.
  2. Don't focus on making money from writing; focus on writing freely.
  3. Write for specific people and aim to connect with them on a deeper level.