Story Club with George Saunders

Story Club with George Saunders explores the intricacies of short storytelling, focusing on writing processes, editing, the role of rejection, the essence of authentic voice, and the business aspects of writing. It emphasizes the importance of reader-writer connection, personal growth through writing, and respectful discourse in literary discussions.

Writing Process Editing and Publishing Rejection and Criticism Authentic Voice in Writing Reader-Writer Connection Literary Agent Dynamics Balancing Personal and Professional Life Storytelling Techniques Writing Exercises Reader Engagement and Awareness

The hottest Substack posts of Story Club with George Saunders

And their main takeaways

Ivan...

35 implied HN points • 02 Mar 25
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Literary Criticism Book Reviews
  1. Questions can be a great way to understand stories better. It's okay to ask what you don't understand or want to know more about.
  2. Discussing a story with others can provide new insights and make the experience more enriching.
  3. Sharing thoughts and reflections on literature can deepen your connection to the themes and characters.

An Unusual Bonus Friday Post

253 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Essays Writing Authors Critique
  1. Keeping politics out of discussions is important, but sometimes it's necessary to address serious issues affecting governance and society.
  2. It's essential to remember the values of kindness and support for the less fortunate, especially during challenging times.
  3. Staying engaged and critical while maintaining a sense of humor can help us deal with difficult situations and keep hope alive for a better future.

The End

52 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Book clubs Narrative Storytelling
  1. The story 'The Death of Ivan Ilyich' has a powerful ending that raises many thoughts and feelings. It's a perfect example of how storytelling can deeply impact us.
  2. As you read stories, pay attention to what captures your interest or confuses you. These moments can lead to deeper understanding and help improve your own writing.
  3. Discussing stories in a group can enhance your experience. Sharing questions and thoughts can lead to exciting discoveries and insights into the text.

Yikes, a Heartfelt Abject Apology

67 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Authors Writing Literary Events
  1. Mistakes can happen, and it's important to acknowledge them honestly. George was tricked by incorrect information about someone else's well-being.
  2. Offering a heartfelt apology helps to clear the air and show care for others. George expressed his genuine regret for jumping to conclusions.
  3. It's always good to double-check information before spreading it. This situation reminds us to be careful about what we share.

"Is the Sky Ever Green?"

56 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Storytelling Authors Critique
  1. Writing well isn’t just about following rules; it often involves a natural talent that can’t be forced. Sometimes inspiration comes unexpectedly, like catching a fish out of nowhere.
  2. Specificity in writing helps create a vivid picture, but it can also be useful to think about how your reader reacts to each line as they read. This helps you create a more engaging experience.
  3. Colors in prose can surprise readers and enhance the story. Using unique colors can make readers pause and think, which draws them deeper into the imaginary world.
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The Decline Will Occur Incrementally

50 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Essays Biography Classics
  1. Change happens slowly over time, it's not always sudden. You might not notice it day to day, but over the years, things can shift a lot.
  2. Understanding someone's struggles can come from their relationships, like in stories where personal lives influence their work. It shows how feelings and experiences shape creativity.
  3. Literature often reflects personal experiences, and authors might use their own lives in their stories. This can lead to some interesting insights about their characters.

Describe a Mind, Running

72 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Writing Reading
  1. Tolstoy shows characters reacting to death in a cold way. This makes us think about how people can be selfish during tough times.
  2. Thought is complex and can show different levels at once. Writers often have to choose which thoughts to share.
  3. Tolstoy's choice to focus on the characters' selfish reactions serves a purpose. It makes us question why he chose to present them this way.

Ivan: the Good (?) Years

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.

Casting a Wide Net

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.

Office Hours

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.

A Slightly Altered Course

590 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Storytelling Authors Commentary
  1. It's important to keep political discussions separate from certain spaces. This helps maintain a positive and civil environment.
  2. Understanding different perspectives is crucial, especially when it comes to politics. People may see things differently, and being curious about those views can help us grow.
  3. Moving forward, the focus will be on storytelling and literature, while political topics will be discussed in other venues. This way, the creative space remains enjoyable for everyone.

Happy Sunday

59 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
📚 Literature Creative Writing Reading Storytelling Authors Literary Analysis
  1. The post features a mix of content including answers to questions and plans for future group activities. It's great to have something engaging and interactive to look forward to.
  2. The author apologizes for missing a previous post, showing accountability. It's nice to see someone taking responsibility and connecting with their audience.
  3. Content is mainly for paid subscribers, emphasizing a supportive community. Being part of a paid group can give access to exclusive insights and shared experiences.

"Death of Ivan Ilyich"...

35 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Reading Authors Literary Analysis Book clubs
  1. The reading assignment focuses on Sections II and III of 'The Death of Ivan Ilyich.', which should help everyone dive deep into the story.
  2. Taking the time to read slowly allows for a more thoughtful understanding of the themes.
  3. There will be a special post mid-week to discuss and respond to comments from the last meeting.

Office Hours

92 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
📚 Literature Writing Fiction Creative Process Storytelling Literary Analysis
  1. It's important to notice areas in your writing that feel off or unsatisfying. These areas can guide you to make better changes and improve your story.
  2. Polishing your writing helps you see new possibilities. Once everything looks clean, you might realize something about the overall structure or flow that needs adjusting.
  3. Practicing writing through revision is key. Focus on small sections of your work and ask yourself how they can be improved, which can reveal new ideas for your storytelling.

What to Do?

117 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Reading Art Philosophy
  1. Finding peace in difficult times can come from focusing on positive systems and relationships in your life. It's important to connect with people and activities that align with your values.
  2. Art and writing can be a powerful way to express feelings and connect with others. Creative work can serve as a positive outlet and a source of meaning.
  3. Even when overwhelmed, small acts of kindness, like writing, can make a big impact. Taking little steps each day can help bring happiness and presence into your life.

"A Christmas Carol" Finale

37 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Literary Analysis Short Stories Classic literature Creative Writing
  1. The finale of 'A Christmas Carol' is very concise and to the point. It shows how well a story can be told without extra fluff.
  2. Great writers have a knack for keeping things simple and powerful. This is a skill that's often missing in lesser writers.
  3. The conclusion ties up the story beautifully, emphasizing the character's transformation and the spirit of Christmas. It leaves a lasting impact on the reader.

Brilliant Young Voices

74 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Writing Reading Education
  1. True love means accepting someone's flaws and growing together. It's about being there for each other, no matter what changes occur over time.
  2. Caregiving is tough, but it is a profound act of love. It shows how much we care about someone, even when the work feels heavy and challenging.
  3. Love is messy and complicated, but choosing to love anyway is what truly matters. Recognizing our own flaws while being there for those we care about is a big part of being human.

"A Christmas Carol"

61 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
📚 Literature Author analysis Book Discussion Literary Criticism
  1. The speaker loves 'A Christmas Carol' and considers it their favorite book. They feel free to admit this now without worrying about others' opinions.
  2. Mark Twain had a different view, believing the book lacks real emotion and is more about surface beauty than true feeling.
  3. People seem to have mixed feelings about the book, with some finding it too sentimental while others think it doesn't convey enough emotion.

"A Christmas Carol"

32 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Drama Essays
  1. Stave Four of 'A Christmas Carol' presents a haunting image of death, making us confront our own mortality. It's a powerful reminder of the impact our choices have on our lives.
  2. The depiction of Scrooge's grave in this section evokes a sense of dread and reflection. Looking at one's own grave can be a terrifying but necessary experience to reevaluate our lives.
  3. The story encourages us to think about how we want to be remembered and the legacy we leave behind. It pushes us to consider our actions and their effects on others.

"A Christmas Carol"

43 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Reading
  1. Reading can lead to powerful experiences that inspire and motivate us for the future. It's great to share suggestions with others as we plan our reading lists.
  2. Reflecting on what we've read helps us connect with the stories and their meanings. It's important to engage with good literature to enrich our lives.
  3. Sharing good books with friends and community can create a sense of bonding and support. Recommendations can help others discover wonderful new reads.

"A Christmas Carol"

34 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Classic
  1. Structure in storytelling helps to present arguments clearly and logically. It's like the backbone that holds the whole story together.
  2. Exploring significant questions through a structured approach can deepen our understanding of the narrative and its characters.
  3. Understanding how to use structure can make writing more effective and engaging for readers. It guides them through the story smoothly.

My Annual Impossible Question For You

63 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing Authors Book Reviews Literary Analysis
  1. It's important to think about big questions that seem impossible to answer. They can help us reflect on what really matters to us.
  2. Sharing our thoughts and ideas with others can create meaningful conversations. Talking about difficult topics can bring people closer together.
  3. Being open to different perspectives can enrich our understanding of the world. It's good to listen and learn from others' experiences.

Screenwriting

57 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Screenwriting Writing Storytelling Adaptation
  1. Writing for film and TV is different from writing books. In screenwriting, many choices depend on how the scene is shot and performed, which isn’t just up to the writer.
  2. Screenwriting can feel frustrating because it limits the writer's control over language and detail while also feeling liberating since writers can imagine big, wild scenes without needing to describe every detail.
  3. It's common for writers to have strong opinions about their work in fiction, while they might be more unsure when writing scripts. This can lead to both hesitance and exploration in screenwriting.

Writing by a "Dossier" Method (?)

65 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing Storytelling Character development Writing process
  1. You can start writing a story just by focusing on your characters first. Get to know them well before adding any plot or action.
  2. There’s no one right way to create a story. Different methods can work, and it’s okay to lean into what feels right for you.
  3. If your story feels a bit flat, try making your characters interact more. This can help bring energy and connection to the narrative.

Theft

49 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Storytelling Critique Discussion
  1. A good work of art captures something deep and meaningful. It's about more than just the surface level; it resonates with our emotions and thoughts.
  2. Engaging with art is a collaborative experience. The audience plays a vital role in interpreting and connecting with the work.
  3. Effective storytelling includes exploring difficult themes. A story can tackle complex issues while still being relatable and thought-provoking.

"Theft"

54 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Storytelling Narrative
  1. The story explores deep feelings of loss and how they impact our lives. It shows that remembering past losses can affect our present emotions.
  2. Katherine Anne Porter's 'Theft' invites readers to think about the nature of storytelling. It provides insights that can help us understand stories better.
  3. There’s an interesting trivia piece related to the story that sheds light on its themes. Learning these little facts can enhance our appreciation of the narrative.

Happy Thanksgiving

48 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Book recommendations
  1. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone celebrating this holiday!
  2. Be aware that any social media accounts claiming to be George Saunders on Bluesky and Facebook are fake.
  3. A fun way to support the literary magazine n+1 is through their Bookmatch fundraiser, which gives personalized book recommendations based on a quiz.

On Titles

57 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
📚 Literature Writing Storytelling Authors Literary Analysis Creative Process
  1. Titles should be simple and not give too much away about the story. A good title can grab the reader’s attention without being too clever or obvious.
  2. Many titles come to the writer naturally while working on the story. They might pop into the writer's head without much effort.
  3. It's important for a title to resonate with the story after it's read, adding extra meaning while still not being overly complicated or distracting.

"Theft"

45 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Essays Short Stories Criticism Creative Writing
  1. The story 'Theft' by Katherine Anne Porter explores themes of loss and value. It makes you think about what things really mean to us.
  2. The discussion led by George Saunders encourages readers to engage deeply with the story. Thinking about the characters and their experiences helps enrich the reading.
  3. Turning off the comments allows for a more thoughtful reading process. It gives everyone time to reflect on their thoughts before sharing.

On Political Writing

70 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Art Politics Culture
  1. When writing political stories, it's important to elevate the narrative beyond just being an opinion piece. Aim for the story to resonate on a deeper, more universal level that will last beyond current events.
  2. A good story explores complexities instead of presenting a single viewpoint. This helps avoid alienating readers and opens up a space for deeper discussions within the narrative.
  3. Instead of forcing a political stance, let the story unfold naturally. Sometimes, the most powerful messages emerge when you allow the characters and plot to guide the direction.

An Exercise...

49 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Art Creativity Intention Discussion
  1. Art can spark different emotions and reactions in people. It's not always about getting things perfect, but about creating a reaction.
  2. The process of finding intention in art can be seen as an experiment. Artists should think about how they want to proceed and the impact they want to make.
  3. Discussion and shared experiences are important in art. Engaging others can lead to deeper understanding and powerful conversations.

An Astonishing List

56 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing Literary Analysis Reading Lists Short Stories Author studies
  1. Paid subscribers get special perks like exclusive posts and commenting. This helps keep the community engaged and allows for better quality content.
  2. Annemarie Gallaugher created a helpful list of book recommendations based on reader responses. This list aims to guide writers on what to read for inspiration.
  3. The writer is adjusting the posting schedule to balance content creation with personal projects. This change will help manage time better while still providing valuable content to subscribers.

A Bone to Pick (With Me)

37 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Criticism
  1. The importance of intention in writing is significant. It's about understanding what you want to communicate and why it matters.
  2. Engaging with feedback can enhance the writing process. Listening to others can provide new perspectives and improve your work.
  3. Creative exercises can be beneficial. They can stimulate ideas and help writers think outside the box.

"Boule de Suif"

41 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Essays Critique Teaching
  1. The story 'Boule de Suif' explores themes of sacrifice and morality. It shows how people's values can change in difficult situations.
  2. The character of Boule de Suif represents strength and resilience despite facing judgment from others. She's a strong woman in a challenging world.
  3. The setting of the story highlights the impact of war on individuals and society. It reveals how external conflicts can shape personal choices.

In Which, for the First Time...

41 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Essays Reviews Analysis Authors
  1. The author discusses being inspired by reading 'The Street of Crocodiles' and how it moved them. It's a good idea to read different authors and see what we can learn from them.
  2. There was also a mention of an essay about Bruno Schulz that was appreciated by a reader. Sharing interesting articles can spark good conversations.
  3. The post seems to focus on literature and connecting with other readers. Engaging with a community around books can enhance our reading experience.

"Boule de Suif"

37 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Drama Essays Short Stories
  1. "Boule de Suif" is a story by Guy de Maupassant that explores themes of social class and morality during difficult times.
  2. The version discussed is from 1922, and it's helpful to have a printed copy with numbered pages for easier reference.
  3. This discussion is intended for paid subscribers, highlighting the exclusivity of the content and insights provided.

An Event..(Bonus Post)

26 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
📚 Literature Books Authors Events Memoirs Writing
  1. A book launch event for Jenny Slate's new memoir, 'LIFEFORM', is happening in Los Angeles on October 25th.
  2. The event will feature Jenny performing excerpts from her book, followed by an interview and audience questions.
  3. Jenny Slate is known for her creative and heartfelt writing, making this event one to look forward to.