Castalia

Castalia is an intellectual journal featuring essays, reflections, and stories focused on themes like authenticity in writing, the impact of digital platforms, cultural critiques, and free speech. It emphasizes individuality, creativity over market-driven content, and ongoing debates about modern societal shifts.

Writing and Authenticity Digital Platforms Cultural Critiques Free Speech Modern Societal Shifts

The hottest Substack posts of Castalia

And their main takeaways

Curator

1758 implied HN points • 08 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Publishing Art Criticism Society
  1. Literary writing should introduce new ideas, provide honest experiences, or unleash creativity. Unfortunately, much of what's out there feels repetitive and lacks depth.
  2. There's a growing disconnect between writers and publishers, as publishers often prioritize profits over the integrity of literary work. This leads to a system that might not serve those truly passionate about literature.
  3. The publishing industry is shifting, and some men feel left out of the conversation. It's essential to remember that literature should be about artistic expression, not just political representation.

The Troll School of Literature

2238 implied HN points • 30 Jul 24
📚 Literature Criticism Publishing Fiction Reviews Cultural Commentary
  1. Some writers gain fame not for their talent, but for the buzz around them. This can help their books sell, even if the writing isn't good.
  2. Reviews can sometimes fail to criticize bad books, making it harder for readers to know what's worthwhile. Honest reviews are important to point out what really matters.
  3. The idea of just getting attention, regardless of quality, can overshadow real literary talent. It’s easy for readers to get caught up in the hype instead of seeking out good literature.

Substack Anniversary

2018 implied HN points • 25 Jun 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Community Digital Media Content creation
  1. Starting a Substack can be a great decision for writers. It offers a chance to connect with a community and share their work without the typical constraints of traditional publishing.
  2. The challenges of internet writing include keeping readers engaged and dealing with financial uncertainties. Writers should focus on expressing their true thoughts rather than just chasing popularity.
  3. Substack represents a shift in how content can be shared, allowing more freedom for writers. It's seen as a positive alternative to other social media platforms, encouraging meaningful and longer-form writing.

End of an Era

1139 implied HN points • 11 Jul 24
🕹 Technology Software AI Computing Innovation Digital Culture
  1. We might be at the end of the 'Software Era' because many tech companies feel stuck and aren't coming up with new ideas. People are noticing that apps and technologies often prioritize ads over user experience.
  2. In past decades, society shifted from valuing collective worker identity to focusing more on individuals. This change brought about personal computing, but it also resulted in fewer job opportunities compared to earlier industrial times.
  3. AI could replace many white-collar jobs, but it clashes with people's desire for individuality. While tech like the Metaverse offers potential growth, it may reshape our identities into something more complex and multiple.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Against Stories

1918 implied HN points • 07 Jun 24
📚 Literature Literary Criticism Narrative Theory Creative Writing Contemporary Fiction
  1. Stories have a clear structure with a beginning, middle, and end, but life doesn't always fit into these neat patterns. There are moments of confusion, boredom, and the everyday that aren't typically captured in stories.
  2. Many great writers focus on the real, messy aspects of life rather than following traditional story arcs. They highlight the mundane feelings and events that often get overlooked in mainstream literature.
  3. While stories can be enjoyable, getting too caught up in them can make life feel flat or predictable. Embracing the complexities of reality can lead to a richer and more interesting experience.

My Mormon Obsession

479 implied HN points • 13 Aug 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religious history Theology Cultural Studies Personal narrative Community Dynamics
  1. Joseph Smith had unique and complex beliefs about God and spirituality that diverged from the mainstream ideas of his followers. He believed that humans could become like God and that creativity was a path to divinity.
  2. Smith faced opposition and challenges from both within and outside his community, including issues arising from his controversial practices like plural marriage. This led to tensions among his followers and eventually to his downfall.
  3. After Smith's death, the Mormon community experienced a significant shift as leadership changed hands. Brigham Young led the migration to Utah, where the community adopted a more structured approach, moving away from the free-spirited culture that characterized Smith's time.

What I Learned From Editing Substack Reads

2378 implied HN points • 20 May 24
📚 Literature Writing Editing Publishing Content creation Market research
  1. Substack is packed with all kinds of content, making it hard to find what matters to you. It's better to think about how to reach a wider audience rather than just focusing on your own style.
  2. The platform seems to have more older writers than younger ones. Younger writers might not realize how useful Substack can be for launching their careers.
  3. Substack shows the power of democratic expression with lots of voices and ideas. However, the vast amount of content can make it feel overwhelming and make each writer feel less unique.

New(ish) Books

939 implied HN points • 16 Jul 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Publishing Literary Criticism Authorship
  1. Honor Levy's book, 'My First Book', received harsh criticism for not living up to the hype. It's seen as lacking depth and is heavily marketed despite its flaws.
  2. Alexandre Lefebvre's 'Liberalism as a Way of Life' presents liberalism as an ethical way to live. He explores its historical roots and addresses modern challenges to liberal values.
  3. Lefebvre emphasizes the need for strong institutions to support liberalism. He believes that simply promoting good behavior isn't enough without collective action.

Working Class Hero

699 implied HN points • 27 Jul 24
📚 Literature Short Stories Fiction Character Study
  1. Tyler thought he was destined for something special but was stuck in an office job until he decided to become an actor. His leap of faith led him to success, but it also changed his life dramatically.
  2. As Tyler became more successful, he struggled with personal relationships, especially with his girlfriend Rebecca. He felt like their lives were on different paths, leading to their eventual breakup.
  3. Despite his fame, Tyler faced doubts about the meaning of success. He reflected on the pressures of being a celebrity and the reality of his journey, realizing that true fulfillment might not come from being in the spotlight.

Illiberals All the Way Down

479 implied HN points • 06 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Liberalism Capitalism Democracy
  1. Illiberalism is more than just the opposite of liberalism; it has its own beliefs and influences that shape how people behave in society. Instead of just resisting liberal ideas, it promotes a system focused on individual self-interest.
  2. The rise of illiberalism has changed how many view governance and society. Politicians may act selfishly and prioritize their own gain, appealing to a more primal side of human nature that people relate to.
  3. Liberalism offers a more cooperative and functional way of living together in society. History shows that while illiberalism might seem appealing, long-term survival requires values of collaboration and shared ethics.

On Aristocracy

759 implied HN points • 14 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Social Class Education Inequality History Identity
  1. Aristocracy means being part of an elite class in society, often due to having a prestigious education or social connections. It's not just about wealth but also about how you maintain your status.
  2. The new aristocracy focuses on things like high-status jobs and education rather than old wealth. Families aim to pass on their advantages through schooling instead of inheritance.
  3. This modern elite tries to seem open and merit-based, but still, the same types of people tend to succeed. It's like a game where the rules make sure they always win.

Why I Am A Pagan

1119 implied HN points • 20 Jun 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Theology Philosophy Religious Studies
  1. Paganism views divinity as a connection to nature and different energies in life, rather than just a single god. It's about listening to nature and aligning with its various forces.
  2. In paganism, people can embody different roles like lover, fighter, or craftsman, and their value is based on how they act in each role. This differs from monotheistic views where morality is more binary.
  3. Paganism offers a richer understanding of our experiences and the complexity of human life. It encourages seeing divinity as a form of art that reflects our relationship to the world.

My Mormon Obsession

459 implied HN points • 03 Aug 24
💾 History American history Religious history Cultural Studies Political History Historical Narratives
  1. Nauvoo was a unique place in American history where Mormons created a theocratic community led by Joseph Smith. They had a different approach to politics and society compared to the individualistic American spirit.
  2. Despite facing hardships, the Mormons worked hard and grew in numbers, thanks in part to Joseph Smith's leadership and their strong community spirit. Nauvoo became a symbol of resilience for them.
  3. Joseph Smith's personal life was complex, involving multiple marriages and hidden affairs. He justified his actions through his religious beliefs, demonstrating a mix of idealism and ambition.

Commentator

579 implied HN points • 22 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Government Political parties Campaigns
  1. If Donald Trump had been shot and hadn't reacted, it could have changed politics a lot, making the Republican party scramble for a new leader. It might have led to violence, but it also could have been calmer than expected.
  2. The Democrats seemed resigned to losing the upcoming elections, with many believing Biden needed to step down. Their response has been quiet, as some leaders were preparing a plan to encourage Biden to leave gracefully.
  3. Now that Biden is out and Kamala Harris is the nominee, she needs to lead a strong campaign against Trump. Harris must highlight Trump's threats to democracy while showing she's capable, even though people often view her as insincere.

My Mormon Obsession

499 implied HN points • 24 Jul 24
📚 Literature Essays Fiction History Biography Cultural critique
  1. The author has written two novels about Mormonism, despite having no personal connection to the religion. They find the history and stories surrounding Mormonism fascinating.
  2. Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism, had a unique background that influenced his development as a leader. His early life was marked by treasure hunting and a strong sense of individualism.
  3. Mormonism grew in a time of religious enthusiasm and many followers were drawn to its intellectual appeal. Smith's charisma and the communal experiences helped shape the church's early success.

Commentator

819 implied HN points • 28 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Debates Political strategy Leadership
  1. Biden needs to step aside as he is not adding any value to the Democratic campaign. If he does so, the party could hold a convention and choose a new candidate who might have a better chance against Trump.
  2. Biden's poor debate performance shows he may not realize how badly it went. It's important for influential people around him to help him see the truth for the good of the party.
  3. Even if the Democratic convention seems messy, it's a valid way to choose a candidate. The party has strong talent and could effectively challenge Trump if Biden makes way for someone new.

Why I Am A (Medieval) Catholic

699 implied HN points • 06 Jul 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Philosophy Psychology Tradition Healing
  1. Medieval Catholicism offers a unique way to understand psychological states using the idea of demons and possession. This approach can help explain behaviors and emotions in a way that modern labels sometimes fail to capture.
  2. The Catholic tradition emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and redemption. This is shown through stories, like Dante's, which illustrate that even the worst actions can lead to healing through understanding and acceptance of one's sins.
  3. Religious language and belief systems can provide powerful support in overcoming struggles, like addiction. Many people find that embracing a higher power helps them in their journey towards recovery and self-acceptance.

What Has Been Lost In Israel/Gaza

1019 implied HN points • 11 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Conflict resolution Middle East Public Opinion Human Rights
  1. The narrative of Jewish victimhood is changing, as Israel's actions in the conflict have started to challenge the idea of Jewish innocence and justification. Many are struggling with the moral implications of these actions, feeling a sense of grief and complicity.
  2. Hope for reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians is fading. Past optimism around peace agreements now feels unlikely, as historical grievances on both sides make a peaceful resolution seem more distant.
  3. The international community's role as a mediator is diminishing. Israel feels increasingly isolated and perceived as a pariah state, making diplomatic efforts less effective in the face of ongoing violence.

What Does A Healthy Culture Look Like?

1498 implied HN points • 13 May 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Media Society
  1. A healthy culture should be open and decentralized. This means it shouldn't be controlled by a few powerful people, allowing many voices to be heard.
  2. Quality work is important, but everyone should have the chance to share their art. A good culture encourages creativity and supports new ideas.
  3. Art and money are different things. While artists need support to create, financial success doesn’t always mean the art is good. The focus should be on creativity rather than just profits.

Commentator

639 implied HN points • 08 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Elections Public Opinion Government Accountability International relations
  1. Many people believe Biden should drop out of the race because he seems too old and is dragging the party down, but he refuses to listen to that advice.
  2. Electoral shifts in Britain and France show that political power is moving away from the centrist parties and towards the extremes, leaving a lot of uncertainty in how these countries will be governed.
  3. The response to COVID highlighted serious flaws in trusting experts without questioning them, which led to unnecessary restrictions and a loss of trust in government and public health authorities.

Commentator

639 implied HN points • 01 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Leadership Public Opinion Political strategy Campaigns
  1. Many Democrats feel that Biden should step aside for the next election, with polls showing a strong preference for a different candidate. The belief is that Biden's time as a leader may be coming to an end.
  2. Biden's team seems out of touch with public opinion and overestimates his connection with voters. They appear to believe that if they manage the media coverage well, it will change how people feel about him.
  3. There's a significant concern about Biden's age and health, with many questioning whether he can effectively lead. This has led to worries about who truly influences his decisions and whether his close circle is providing honest advice.

New(ish) Books

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.

Against Branding (and Sarah Fay)

4895 implied HN points • 01 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Writing Branding Identity Expression Media
  1. Writing should be about exploration and self-discovery, not just about building a brand or following. Writers should feel free to express their thoughts without worrying about market trends.
  2. The idea of 'branding' can limit creativity and individual expression. People should resist pressure to conform to easy, recognizable formats in their writing.
  3. Substack was meant to be a platform for genuine writing, not just a marketplace for consumer-driven content. It's important to keep the spirit of originality and experimentation alive.

How Are You Shaped By How You Write?

559 implied HN points • 18 Jun 24
📚 Literature Writing Authors Genres History Theory
  1. The tools you use for writing affect how you express your thoughts. Each medium, like paper or a typewriter, has its own energy and style.
  2. Writing by hand can feel personal and intimate, while typing might allow for faster expression but can also lead to distractions.
  3. The place you write also matters. Using a smart phone means you can jot down ideas anywhere, but it might make your writing less focused.

Anatomy of a Hatchet Job

2597 implied HN points • 13 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Media Critique Content Moderation Online Platforms Cultural Issues
  1. Substack has a different approach to content moderation compared to major social media platforms, focusing on free speech rather than strict content controls. This has led to controversies about the type of content allowed on their platform.
  2. Recent articles have criticized Substack for hosting extremist content, sparking debates about the platform's moderation policies. Critics argue that having such content reflects poorly on Substack, while supporters argue it aligns with free speech principles.
  3. The tensions between traditional media and new platforms like Substack highlight a struggle over who gets to control public discourse. Some view Substack as a space for independent voices, while others see it as problematic for allowing potentially harmful content.

Commentator

639 implied HN points • 04 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict analysis International relations Humanitarian Issues Geopolitics Middle East
  1. The situation in Gaza is extremely dire, with a collapsed economy and high unemployment. Reporting restrictions make it hard to fully understand the devastation there.
  2. In Ukraine, the conflict seems to be at a breaking point, with varying reports about military actions. The U.S. is now allowing Ukraine to respond to attacks in Russia, marking a significant escalation.
  3. Sudan faces a severe humanitarian crisis, yet it's largely ignored in the media. Thousands are being killed and displaced, reminiscent of past atrocities, but international intervention seems unlikely.

New(ish) Books

519 implied HN points • 14 Jun 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Memoirs Fiction Cultural critique Contemporary Issues
  1. Adelle Waldman's new book, _Help Wanted_, is based on her real experiences working with warehouse employees. While it's well-researched, it feels more like observing the workers than authentically capturing their lives.
  2. Glenn Loury's memoir, _Late Admissions_, dives into his complex life and the internal struggles he faces. It's not about trying to fit into one idea but exploring his multiple identities and contradictions.
  3. Both books highlight the challenges of representing people's real experiences. Waldman struggles with the class divide in storytelling, while Loury reflects on personal conflicts that make his journey relatable yet complicated.

What Is Substack For?

3017 implied HN points • 21 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Writing Community Publishing Art Expression
  1. Substack can help writers make money from their work, encouraging them to think like entrepreneurs and market their writing effectively.
  2. Some argue that Substack is more about building a community of writers, emphasizing creativity and support over money.
  3. Another view is to see Substack as a base for writing, where authors can share their voice while also engaging with wider audiences through different platforms.

The Tragic View of Life v. Spirituality

499 implied HN points • 01 Jun 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Spirituality Materialism Ethics
  1. Spirituality suggests there's a guiding intelligence in life, making events feel purposeful. Many people express spiritual ideas even if they're not religious.
  2. The tragic view of life sees meaning in the absurdity of existence, emphasizing courage in facing life's challenges without relying on a higher power.
  3. There's an ongoing debate between believing in spiritual guidance or accepting life's chaos. It can be more fulfilling to find strength in life's struggles than to search endlessly for meaning.

Curator

519 implied HN points • 23 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Institutions Ideology Political Discourse Censorship
  1. Many traditional institutions, like PEN America and NPR, are struggling because they tried to overly cater to progressive demands but ended up alienating audiences. It's important for these organizations to return to their core missions and values.
  2. The New York Times seems to be adjusting its approach to reporting and emphasizing independence after a difficult period, while other outlets continue to face public trust issues due to perceived ideological bias.
  3. The so-called 'Intellectual Dark Web' has gained attention for their critiques of mainstream discourse, but many still view them with suspicion. This shows a need for open conversations and diverse perspectives, especially in today's polarized political climate.

Fugly

319 implied HN points • 16 Jun 24
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Relationships Character Study Narrative style
  1. Brian and Liz have a complicated relationship where they go back and forth between friendship and romance. Their dynamic shows how friendships can sometimes turn into something deeper, even if it’s messy.
  2. Liz’s past with Aaron affects her new relationship with Brian. They both struggle with their feelings and the baggage they carry from previous lovers, highlighting how past experiences can shape present connections.
  3. Despite their ups and downs, Brian and Liz find comfort in each other and eventually decide to live together. Their story reflects how settling for companionship can be a realistic choice for many couples.

New(ish) Books

379 implied HN points • 29 May 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Non-fiction Cultural critique
  1. Emma Cline's book _The Guest_ presents a strong narrative about class dynamics, where the main character navigates different social strata, showcasing how perception varies between the wealthy and the underprivileged.
  2. Nellie Bowles' _Morning After The Revolution_ explores the rise and consequences of woke culture in society, illustrating the challenges and contradictions that arose from good intentions.
  3. Both authors highlight the complexities of modern social issues, with Cline focusing on personal dynamics within class structures, and Bowles reflecting on the broader cultural shifts related to social movements.

Is It Possible To Stay Sane on Israel/Gaza?

419 implied HN points • 10 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East International relations Conflict resolution Political Rhetoric Public Opinion
  1. It's tough to find a balanced view on the Israel-Palestine conflict with so much chaos happening. Both sides have strong feelings, but finding common ground is really important.
  2. Terms like 'colonialism' and 'genocide' are used differently by different people, which can confuse discussions. Understanding the exact meanings behind these words is key to clearer conversations.
  3. Thinking about all the suffering in Gaza and the political arguments can be really overwhelming. It's important to take a step back, breathe, and try to view things from all sides to stay sane.

What Was A Millennial?

539 implied HN points • 10 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Identity politics Social Trends Cultural criticism Gender Studies
  1. Millennials challenged traditional ideas of adulthood, believing that fulfillment doesn't require following old initiation rites like military service or parenthood. They made this idea more mainstream, especially through the concept of metrosexuality.
  2. As millennials focused on self-care and personal fulfillment, they experienced challenges in workplaces that valued traditional hierarchies. This shift also led to lower birth rates, as many sought meaning outside of family structures.
  3. The rise of androgyny and gender fluidity was prominent in both millennials and Gen Z, suggesting a future with fewer gender boundaries. However, older generations often felt this led to a loss of clear roles and responsibilities.

What Is An Elite?

299 implied HN points • 27 May 24
🎭️ Culture Social Status Education Influence Wealth
  1. Being elite can come from different paths, like being born into wealth or status. It’s like having a hidden head start in life compared to others.
  2. Education plays a big role in elite status, especially through prestigious schools. Many people with elite backgrounds invest heavily in their children's education, making it harder for others to catch up.
  3. Money is a major factor for entering elite circles, but it doesn't always guarantee acceptance. Some people get influence and status through connections and public roles rather than just wealth.

New(ish) Books

419 implied HN points • 27 Apr 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Non-fiction Cultural critique Psychology Foreign Policy
  1. The Biden administration faced tough challenges early on, especially with issues like the withdrawal from Afghanistan. This decision had big consequences, as it hinted at U.S. weaknesses that adversaries like Putin could sense.
  2. There’s a concerning rise in anxiety and depression among kids today, largely due to smartphones and social media. These tools have changed how children grow and interact with the world around them.
  3. Haidt suggests that to help kids, we should limit their access to smartphones and social media. But it seems hard to implement these changes in today's digital age, as technology has fundamentally reshaped our lives.

Free Speech Is Actually Really Simple

1278 implied HN points • 05 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech First Amendment Civil Rights Political Discourse Media Regulation
  1. Free speech is important because it allows everyone to express their ideas, even the ones that are controversial. When we let others speak freely, we protect our own right to speak up too.
  2. There are some concerns that free speech can support harmful ideas or groups. However, allowing open discussion can help check power and make society stronger over time.
  3. Private companies can set their own speech rules, but this can create problems and complicate open discussions. It's often better to stick with the basic idea of free speech to keep conversations simple and honest.

Historical Fiction: The Problem Genre

459 implied HN points • 15 Apr 24
📚 Literature Fiction Historical Writing Narrative Arts
  1. Historical fiction can be tricky because it's hard to write about the past without getting it wrong. Authors need to balance modern ideas with how people thought back then.
  2. There are different paths writers can take in historical fiction, like blending their creativity with real history or using the past to imagine new outcomes, which can make stories exciting.
  3. Despite its challenges, historical fiction is important because it helps us connect with the past and understand our world better. It should not just be seen as romance or costume drama.

Alexei Navalny RIP

759 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Authoritarianism Civil Rights International relations Political History
  1. Alexei Navalny was a brave opposition leader in Russia who stood up against Putin's regime. Despite facing imprisonment and even being poisoned, he returned to Russia to show his strength and courage.
  2. He represented a connection to a time of hope in the 1990s when many Russians wanted change. His death marks a significant point in the decline of political dissent in Russia.
  3. Navalny believed in the power of truth and courage over fear. He thought that standing up for what is right was worth the risk, even if it seemed like nothing would change.