The Common Reader

The Common Reader explores a wide range of interests across literature, philosophy, productivity, technology, and culture. It emphasizes the value of diverse reading, critical thinking, and creativity through examinations of children's films, literary critique, personal productivity tools, and the roles of arts and humanities in society.

Literature Philosophy Productivity Technology Culture Literary Critique Creative Writing Arts and Humanities

The hottest Substack posts of The Common Reader

And their main takeaways

AI and the future of literature.

2090 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📚 Literature Literary Criticism Creative Writing AI Impact Cultural Theory Modernism
  1. AI is changing literature and writers need to pay attention to it. It's becoming a tool that helps with research and creates new possibilities in storytelling.
  2. Some see AI as a threat to writing because it can generate content, which might take away from the unique human experience in literature. Others believe it's just another tool that can enhance creativity.
  3. Literature has always adapted to new technology, and ignoring AI might leave writers behind. Engaging with AI might lead to new forms of art and storytelling that we cannot yet imagine.

Read more, Generations, Hill, Post-feminist Austen, Marketing Tolstoy, Delve, Book Tok, Close Reading, Anthology, Reverse Engineering, AI firms, Publishing, Sontag, Who Cares?, Serious Joke Poems

1098 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
📚 Literature Book clubs Literary Criticism Genres
  1. Reading should be fun! Enjoying what you read helps you do it more, so pick books you love.
  2. Different generations have unique perspectives on crises, as seen in Homer's Iliad, which teaches us about temperaments over time.
  3. It's important to share knowledge, like Geoffrey Hill's lectures, so more people can learn and grow together.

Pride and Poverty? Lizzy Bennet's financial prospects.

1452 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
📚 Literature Classics Analysis Feminism Economics Gender
  1. Lizzy Bennet's family has a good income, so she's not in danger of starving or facing true poverty. Even if she stays single, her situation is better than what some people think.
  2. The idea that Austen's characters face extreme poverty is overstated. Rather, their concerns are about losing status and a comfortable lifestyle, not about basic survival.
  3. When discussing genteel poverty, it's important to remember that Lizzy's financial prospects are still well above average for her time, making her situation more about class than actual financial distress.

Founders over fifty.

1842 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Investing Venture Capital Startups Innovation
  1. Older founders often have more experience and valuable connections than younger ones. This helps them spot opportunities that others might miss.
  2. Studies show the average age of successful entrepreneurs is around 45. Older founders are more likely to make successful sales than younger founders.
  3. Experience from past failures can improve the chances of success in new ventures. Many middle-aged entrepreneurs have the financial stability to start their own businesses.
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Does the flame of genius burn past 30?

4181 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Philosophy Education Science
  1. Genius can continue to shine bright after age 30, not just in youth. Many inventors and artists create amazing work later in life too.
  2. The age at which people achieve great things has changed over time, often due to the increasing complexity of knowledge in various fields.
  3. Not all talent comes from young people. Many famous poets and thinkers made their best contributions after they turned fifty.

Literary culture can't just dismiss AI.

3402 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Media Innovation Technology
  1. AI is changing how we think about literature and culture. It's important to embrace this change rather than ignore it.
  2. Modern literature needs to engage with new technologies to stay relevant. Just like past innovations, AI can be a tool for creativity instead of a replacement.
  3. Writers should adapt to the evolving cultural landscape. Accepting AI as part of the literary world can help create a richer and more diverse artistic expression.

Does Jane Austen hate you?

1488 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
📚 Literature Literary Criticism Classics Feminism Cultural analysis Historical context
  1. Jane Austen used satire to challenge and criticize society, rather than simply portraying it in a positive light. Her works often reveal her disdain for social norms and the people who uphold them.
  2. Austen's characters often provoke a sense of superiority in readers, showing their flaws in a humorous way. This allows readers to laugh at their shortcomings but also reflects Austen's complicated feelings about her society.
  3. Critics like W.D. Harding and Marvin Mudrick examined Austen's work with different perspectives, highlighting her use of irony and the psychological complexity of characters over moral judgments.

Shakespeare the economist.

992 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
📚 Literature Shakespeare Economics Human nature Social Issues Debt
  1. Shakespeare understood economics really well. He used themes like wealth and trade in his plays to show how money affects human relationships.
  2. His work highlights the moral issues of money, like debt and lending. For example, in The Merchant of Venice, the harsh realities of financial need lead to serious conflicts.
  3. Shakespeare's stories reflect the changing social dynamics of his time. The rise of the middle class and trade had a big impact on society and he captured that in his writing.

A place where knowledge is ours for the taking.

3508 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Existentialism Critical Thinking Inquiry
  1. Socrates had doubts about his life's work before he died, showing that even great thinkers question their choices. This makes us think about whether we feel we are doing enough in our own lives.
  2. Agnes Callard emphasizes the importance of dialogue and inquiry in understanding life. She believes that discussing tough questions helps us live better and make meaningful choices.
  3. Living philosophically means constantly examining our beliefs and decisions. This can be hard for people to accept, especially when those beliefs challenge what’s considered normal.

Why is Harry Potter quite so influential?

2232 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Cultural impact Reading habits
  1. Harry Potter has a special charm because it mixes ordinary places, like King’s Cross station, with the idea of magical adventures. This makes readers feel like they can escape into a wonderful world.
  2. Many adult fans of Harry Potter visit places like Platform 9¾, which shows how much the series means to people of all ages. It's not just a children's story; it resonates with grown-ups too.
  3. The popularity of Harry Potter is on par with classic books like 'The Hobbit' and 'Alice in Wonderland,' highlighting its impact on modern literature and culture. People connect deeply with the characters and stories.

The books I enjoyed most this year, 2024.

7477 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Book Reviews Literary Criticism Poetry
  1. Reading can deeply impact us, and some books, like 'The Golden Bowl,' are worth multiple readings for their intricate themes.
  2. Biographies and memoirs, such as A.N. Wilson's work on Goethe, can unveil fascinating aspects of historical figures and artists.
  3. Exploring diverse genres, including fiction and non-fiction, helps us appreciate different perspectives and storytelling styles.

How good is AI at literary criticism?

2374 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
📚 Literature Literary Criticism Poetry Classics Narrative Theory
  1. AI is getting better at understanding and analyzing literary texts. It can now discuss themes and characters with more clarity than before.
  2. While AI still struggles with some complex questions, it is moving away from vague and fluffy talk about feelings and the human condition.
  3. Good literary criticism should be specific and informed. As AI improves, it is becoming a more useful tool for readers seeking to enhance their understanding of literature.

Seventieth anniversaries. 1955 was a very good year.

3295 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction History Cultural criticism Books
  1. 1955 was an important year for literature, with many significant books published. It featured works from renowned authors like Nabokov and Tolkien.
  2. Beyond literature, 1955 marked key moments in American history and science, including the approval of the polio vaccine and the start of McDonald's.
  3. We should celebrate anniversaries, not just of centenary events, but also of important years like 1955 that shaped culture and society.

Twenty-nine facts about Richard III

1204 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
📚 Literature Shakespeare Drama History Tragedy Character analysis
  1. Richard III starts with the main character sharing his feelings, which is not typical in Shakespeare's plays. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of his character.
  2. The play was likely written between 1587 and 1592, and it’s one of Shakespeare’s earlier works. It gained popularity quickly, evidenced by multiple editions being published.
  3. Unlike many stories, Richard III has no side plots, which keeps the focus solely on Richard's journey. This clarity helps highlight the themes of free will and identity.

Reading Jane Austen

3295 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
📚 Literature Classic Novels Authors Literary Analysis Cultural criticism
  1. Forget about movie and TV adaptations of Jane Austen's work. Reading the novels without visual influences helps you understand them better.
  2. Austen's writing is clever and rich in irony, which can be lost in adaptations. Her unique narrative style can't be captured on screen, and that's part of what makes her books special.
  3. Many people come to appreciate Austen only after initially disliking her work. It's worth giving her novels a second chance as opinions can change with new perspectives.

Shakespeare's stirring world.

1204 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
📚 Literature Drama Poetry Shakespeare Critique History
  1. The plays in Shakespeare's Henry VI trilogy are often seen as dull and filled with excessive speeches that could be shortened.
  2. Characters in these plays rarely show deep self-reflection, which is a hallmark of Shakespeare's more famous works.
  3. Despite some poetic moments, the writing in Henry VI lacks the emotional depth seen in Shakespeare's later plays.

A short defence of gossip

1417 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Moral Philosophy Communication Human behavior Ethics
  1. Gossip helps us communicate the truth when direct conversations feel difficult. It allows people to share important information without the pressure of a public setting.
  2. Telling the truth is morally important, especially when it can serve as a warning about someone's behavior. This makes gossip a tool for honest inquiry.
  3. Even though gossip often gets a bad reputation, it has a valuable role in social interactions. It enables people to express concerns and share insights about others.

Is the Baroness in The Sound of Music a Nazi?

2055 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Literature History Art Theater
  1. The Baroness in The Sound of Music might be seen as a Nazi sympathizer due to her actions and lack of opposition to the Nazi regime. Her character does not openly challenge the views around her.
  2. She maintains a connection to Rolf, who is aligned with the Nazis, indicating a passive acceptance of his stance. This raises questions about her moral standing in the film.
  3. While the film is viewed as a beloved classic, the deeper analysis of its characters, like the Baroness, reveals complex themes related to loyalty and affiliation during a troubled historical period.

Year in review, 2024

2799 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Criticism Media Publishing
  1. Subscriber numbers more than doubled from 7,440 to 16,068 in a year, showing strong growth. Thanks to everyone for reading!
  2. The book 'Second Act' received positive reviews from well-known publications, highlighting its appeal to late bloomers seeking success.
  3. Popular topics on The Common Reader included essays on literary criticism and cultural commentary, reflecting a mix of interests among readers.

How I learned to love literary criticism.

3154 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
📚 Literature Literary Criticism Reading Writing Biography Essays
  1. Literary criticism can be valuable for helping readers understand deeper meanings in texts. It can guide readers to appreciate literature beyond just their personal thoughts.
  2. Reading secondary literature can enrich your understanding of authors and their works. Many great critics highlight unnoticed details that make reading more enjoyable.
  3. Critics who focus on the structure and style of writing can improve our reading skills. They help us notice important aspects of a text that we might otherwise miss.

Late bloomers, Holmes' copyright shame, Guinness Magi, Unphilosophical living, Scott revival?, Context Collapse.

1134 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
📚 Literature Book Reviews Cultural criticism Literary Trends
  1. Some people are late bloomers, meaning they achieve success later in life. It's often just a part of their personality, not because they are held back.
  2. The estate of Sherlock Holmes has faced criticism for aggressively protecting copyright, even after losing court cases. Many believe this approach is unfair and counters the spirit of the original author's intent.
  3. There are different types of luck, such as finding opportunities through being active or being open to new ideas. Creating opportunities can lead to unexpected successes.

Book Club 2025

2551 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
📚 Literature Book clubs Shakespeare Classic Novels
  1. The 2025 book club will explore many Shakespeare plays like 'Macbeth' and 'Pride and Prejudice'. Participants can share their thoughts in scheduled meetings.
  2. Reading Shakespeare can be fun and engaging, even for those doing it for the first time since school. His plays are exciting and have great characters.
  3. 2025 is also Jane Austen's 250th birthday, and there will be a special book club for her novels. Each session will discuss a different book, making it a great way to enjoy her stories.

The rareness of good readers?

2197 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Literary Criticism Memoir
  1. Good readers are very rare, just like good writers. It's hard to find people who truly understand and appreciate a book.
  2. Writers often believe their good writing will attract good readers, but that's not always the case. Many times, books end up in the hands of readers who may not grasp their true value.
  3. Sometimes, writers who aren't very good can become famous because their work is misunderstood in a way that people interpret as greatness.

Wicked King, Mozart: performance and posterity, Women detectives, Midwinter wood, Henry V, Venture Capital, Annihilation, Neverwhere, Enchanted Glass

602 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Music Art Performance History
  1. Wicked King is a well-written book that combines elements of horror and suspense. It has a unique and cult-classic feel, making it stand out in its genre.
  2. Reading about Mozart's life and work revealed that he improved his music by improvising during performances. This shows how creativity can blend with skill in art.
  3. Exploring different genres and topics, like women detectives and venture capital, can broaden your understanding of literature and culture.

Context Collapse is a very bad poem.

2657 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Criticism Modernism Literary theory Historical context
  1. The poem _Context Collapse_ lacks real poetic qualities, reading more like flat prose than verse. It doesn't have rhythm or flow, making it hard to see it as true poetry.
  2. Many lines in the poem are filled with clichés and tired phrases, which stifle creativity. The use of overly familiar language takes away from any potential wit or originality.
  3. The poem seems to take itself too seriously despite claiming to be a 'mock-academic' work. It ends up being more of a pastiche than a clever commentary.

Austen saved me from social media

708 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Philosophy Media Social
  1. Reading Jane Austen can offer a refreshing break from the fast-paced and often shallow content of social media. It allows for a deeper engagement with language and storytelling.
  2. Switching from social media to classic literature can feel challenging at first, but it can lead to a rewarding reading experience. The complexity of Austen's writing is like a nutritious meal compared to fast food.
  3. Engaging with classic literature may require patience and effort, but it ultimately helps to develop a more thoughtful and enriching perspective on communication and social interactions.

Can the philistine supremacy be stopped?

2232 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Arts Literature Education Social Issues History
  1. Schools are changing curriculums in ways that some believe exclude important classics, like Shakespeare and ancient texts. This might limit students' exposure to foundational literature.
  2. There is a push to replace traditional cultural experiences, like theater and museums, with more relatable activities for students. Critics argue that this could reduce opportunities for learning and growth.
  3. Knowledge from literature and history plays a big role in helping students from all backgrounds move up in society. It's important to ensure all students have access to enriching educational experiences.

J.R.R. Tolkien the poet in search of lost time.

1736 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Books Authors Literary Analysis Cultural Studies
  1. J.R.R. Tolkien's poetry often explores the theme of lost time, reflecting on beauty and grief during the First World War.
  2. Despite being a poet with unique style, Tolkien's work shows connections to his contemporaries and the literary trends of his time.
  3. The recent collection of his poems is a valuable insight into his development as a writer and offers interesting historical context.

Shakespeare Schedule 2025

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.

Christmas, science, context, suicide, E.B. White, Bear, Piranesi, James, reading, epigraphs?, Murdoch, selfish, X, smells, Potter, gpt philosophy, PhD, rating Austen, American fantasy?, Art job

992 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Criticism Poetry Literary theory
  1. Ben Jonson played a role in shaping the modern concept of Father Christmas, but it's unclear if he truly invented the character. He helped create the idea of a cheerful, fatherly figure for the holiday season.
  2. Critics argue that the scientific study of literature can't fully capture its value, suggesting that some truths about reading can't be easily tested. This raises questions about the reliability of many academic studies in this field.
  3. The review of 'Context Collapse' highlights its complex writing style and the author's impressive range of knowledge. While the book might feel like a mix of random facts, it aims to convey deeper insights through its collage-like structure.

Can fiction improve you?

2055 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Reading Psychology Philosophy Education
  1. Fiction might not really improve you as some believe. Studies show that its benefits, like understanding emotions, are small and not clear-cut.
  2. Reading fiction can be enjoyable, but it could also lead you to accept false beliefs. Sometimes, it sways our thoughts and feelings in ways we might not notice.
  3. The debate on whether fiction is good or bad for us is complicated. It might inspire creativity and reflection, but it's hard to measure how much it truly affects us.

Death, Sociology, Crime, Knowledge, Jargon, Novels, Men

1240 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
📚 Literature Novels Sociology Crime Knowledge Philosophy
  1. Bach's music connects deeply with our feelings of love and loss. Listening to it can be especially meaningful after reflecting on personal experiences.
  2. Crime novels are a popular genre, and there are many great authors to explore for your reading list. They can be a perfect choice, especially around the holidays.
  3. The idea of conversation being at the heart of intellectual life is important. It shows how our thoughts are shaped by discussions with others, making creativity a social process.

Learning to love. How the poet Dana Gioia discovered his vocation through music.

1701 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Music Poetry Art
  1. Dana Gioia discovered his love for poetry while being exposed to opera. He found that experiencing opera deeply influenced his understanding of music and poetry.
  2. His time in Vienna showed him the value of spontaneity. He went there to study music but ended up realizing he wanted to be a poet instead.
  3. The experience taught him that sometimes things don’t go as planned, but unexpected gifts can lead to new passions, like how losing relationships led him to find inspiration in the arts.

How Prospero repents.

779 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
📚 Literature Shakespeare Analysis Themes Characters
  1. Prospero's journey in _The Tempest_ shows a struggle between love and revenge, highlighting the importance of love over power. He eventually realizes he needs to choose compassion instead of seeking vengeance.
  2. The theme of what it means to be human is central to the story, as Prospero learns his cruel treatment of others diminishes his own humanity and status.
  3. Prospero's control over events often falters, showing that true power cannot be forced and that genuine connections matter more than manipulation.

Unstylish style in Vanity Fair.

956 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
📚 Literature Prose Writing Style Criticism Authors
  1. There is a difference between 'style' and 'stylish'. Style is about how someone expresses themselves, while stylish means following trends or being fashionable.
  2. William Shakespeare, for example, has a diverse range of styles but isn't necessarily considered stylish because he doesn't conform to any one fashionable way of writing.
  3. Modern writers are often seen as stylish because they write in a polished manner, but not all styles, even if they are complex or intricate, are considered stylish.

Rundell, Ibsen, Gogh, Yoshida, Tanizaki, Atwood, Dolan, Bate, Chaucer, Orbital, Liberalism, Future, Monsters, Justice, Autism, Ass

815 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Media Film Theater
  1. Katherine Rundell is a talented children's author, and her books are worth reading for both kids and adults. Her work promotes the importance of great children's literature.
  2. Ibsen's play 'Wild Duck' can be boring because it feels overly structured and focused on heavy themes. However, seeing it performed in Norwegian adds to its emotional depth.
  3. Van Gogh's exhibition has some beautiful works, even if he's not a favorite. Experiencing art with family can create lasting memories.

Coriolanus, literary theory, bad fiction, literary utility, Grimms, shelves, Public humanities, dead novels, fictional therapy, Where is our Milton of the space age?, Austen's sisters, AI art

992 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
📚 Literature Literary theory Fiction Classics Criticism
  1. Coriolanus explores how personal feelings and actions can influence society and politics. It's a reminder that we all share responsibility for the outcomes in our communities.
  2. Literary theory can be complex and off-putting, but it's important to differentiate between good criticism and jargon-heavy theory. Not all literary discussions need to be dense or confusing.
  3. New Historicism focuses heavily on the historical context of literature, which may lead to interpretations that ignore the text itself. It's important to balance historical insights with a direct reading of the literature.