Eclecticism: Reflections on literature, writing and life

Eclecticism: Reflections on literature, writing, and life is a Substack focused on exploring a wide range of topics encompassing literary reflections, personal musings on daily life, in-depth book reviews, creative nonfiction writing experiments, and the inclusion of humor. It delves into everyday experiences, literature analysis, writing practices, cultural assessments, and personal anecdotes to offer nuanced perspectives on life and art.

Literature and Book Reviews Creative Writing and Nonfiction Personal Musings and Everyday Life Cultural and Artistic Commentary Writing Techniques and Experiments Music and Arts Humor and Satire Health and Lifestyle Changes Personal Development and Self-improvement Technology and Media

The hottest Substack posts of Eclecticism: Reflections on literature, writing and life

And their main takeaways

Start the week #61

8 implied HN points • 18 Mar 24
📚 Literature Writing Videos Stories Experiments Letters
  1. Genuine writing should focus on conveying emotions and sentiments rather than just technical brilliance.
  2. When writing, aim to connect with the reader on a heartfelt level rather than just impressing them with technical skills.
  3. Writing with genuine emotion and sentiment can have a more profound impact on readers than technically impressive but emotionally lacking content.

Experiments in style: Inappropriate epithets

8 implied HN points • 17 Mar 24
📚 Literature Writing Style Genres Narrative
  1. Experimenting with writing styles by reworking text into different genres or styles can help improve writing skills.
  2. Using adjectives inappropriately can create intriguing effects in storytelling by making readers think about the words' deeper meanings.
  3. Constraints, like using adjectives from specific sections of a dictionary, can be a creative exercise to enhance writing and explore new narrative possibilities.

Start the week #60

9 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
📚 Literature Writing Reading Reflections Constraints Workshop
  1. When sharing posts or newsletters, make sure comments are open to everyone, not just paid subscribers.
  2. Taking care of your health is essential, especially during times of illness. Don't forget to rest and prioritize your well-being.
  3. Writing about personal experiences can involve overcoming inner doubts. It's okay to wait for the right moment for your thoughts to flow naturally.

Letter to Rebecca #24-06

8 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature Health Photography Fashion Humor
  1. The author discusses illness, fake photos, and Jane Austen in a letter to Rebecca.
  2. Reading about Jane Austen's clothing and the history of ready-to-wear fashion led to reflections on modern conveniences compared to the past.
  3. Anecdotes about running out of tea and fake photos add humor to the conversation.
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Escapism

9 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
📚 Literature Writing Constraints
  1. The post discusses escapism and a 50-word prose poem.
  2. It introduces the Oulipo writing movement that uses constraints in writing.
  3. The author invites readers to a workshop on writing with constraints and showcases their publication.

Escapism: the solution

7 implied HN points • 14 Mar 24
📚 Literature Constraints Writing Workshop Reflections
  1. The article discusses the concept of escapism as a solution to various challenges.
  2. The author used a unique constraint from the Oulipo movement to craft a story in a novel manner.
  3. By applying constraints in writing, individuals can explore new directions and generate diverse texts.

Start the week #58

15 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
📚 Literature Writing Book Reviews Art Jazz
  1. The author had a close call with their cat Minty almost getting run over, revealing a story with humor and relief.
  2. The author is promoting a writing course and showcased an AI-generated press release that praised their literary imagination.
  3. The author is reimagining Macbeth for a modern audience, blending humor and nuance to explore the characters' dynamics.

Stupid rules

19 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Humor Personal Stories
  1. Some rules may seem stupid, but there might be a logical reason behind them.
  2. Sometimes guarantees may not cover the most obvious things, like the actual glass in a window.
  3. Strict adherence to rules, no matter how nonsensical, can lead to frustrating experiences.

Start the week #59

8 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature Music Videos Film Visual art
  1. Our impact on the world is reflected in the values we instill in others and the work we leave behind.
  2. Lightening the mood with videos and personal anecdotes can add variety and engage readers.
  3. Connecting with readers through intriguing content and responses can enhance engagement and subscription rates.

Review: The Oulipo and Modern Thought

8 implied HN points • 25 Feb 24
📚 Literature Analysis Review Techniques Authors
  1. The Oulipo movement plays with constraints and mathematical devices to create new writing, advocating for unique approaches in literature.
  2. The Oulipo group was against surrealists, focusing on a mechanical approach to writing that aimed to cut out the author, leading to innovative ideas like computer-generated creative content.
  3. The Oulipo's methods are now embraced beyond the group itself, with the term 'Oulipian' belonging to everyone interested in creating new forms of literature.

Start the Week #56

13 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
📚 Literature Writing Teaching Books
  1. This edition of Start the Week is shorter due to the writer feeling tired from biking in strong winds.
  2. The newsletter includes discussions on teaching scripts, gutter cleaning, and advice for writers.
  3. The writer shares personal experiences and links to recent published content.

Letter to Rebecca #24-04

9 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
📚 Literature Letters Literary Criticism
  1. The author shares a letter to Rebecca discussing the casual and informal nature of modern communication, especially in comparison to classic literature like 'Sense and Sensibility'.
  2. The author reflects on gender dynamics in literature and creative writing classes, noting the predominance of women participants, which sparks humorous interactions and discussions.
  3. The text delves into the concept of unsent letters and the cathartic purpose they serve, highlighted through an AI-generated 'Letter to Rebecca That Is Not a Letter'.

Letter to Rebecca #24-05

6 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Literature History Education
  1. In the past, postal delivery was more intricate, with methods such as spiral writing on letters and unique ways of folding paper; things like envelopes weren't common.
  2. The concept of parallel dimensions can be a fascinating explanation for differing memories or experiences, with the idea that multiple universes could exist.
  3. Humor can be found in creative solutions to everyday issues, like renaming transport lines or unique strategies for ensuring mail delivery.

Start the week #57

9 implied HN points • 13 Feb 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing Reflections Memoir Writing process
  1. Spring is here with crocuses and daffodils blooming, saving queen bees from cats is a noble action
  2. Creative writing can flourish within constraints, prompting innovation and unique expressions in writing
  3. Exploring jazz music through saxophone lessons brings joy and learning, creating engaging experiences in music

Experiments in style: US TV Cop series

9 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Literature TV
  1. The author experiments with reworking text into different styles like a US TV Cop show from the 1950s/1960s.
  2. The story follows a police investigation where a man with a head injury tells his version in a stylized dialogue.
  3. The piece includes hipster slang and a glossary explaining the references used in the narrative.

Alternative measures of newsletter success

5 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
💼 Business Marketing Content creation Subscribers
  1. Success of a newsletter is not just about the number of subscribers; there are other important indicators to consider.
  2. Reflecting on different aspects of success beyond subscriber growth can be uplifting during times of slow growth.
  3. Experience and alternative success criteria can provide solace when subscriber numbers decline.

Start the week #54

10 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
📚 Literature Writing Books Creativity Critique Fantasy
  1. The author discusses changes in their newsletter, adapting to reader feedback.
  2. The story about low expectations in a computer graphics course shows how teacher expectations can impact student performance.
  3. The author shares recommendations for interesting Substack posts about writing and perspective.

Start the week #55

8 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Animals Literature Media Art TV
  1. Microchip your pets for easy identification and reunification.
  2. Consider the impact of using gendered language and choose words wisely.
  3. Explore gothic literature and its wide-ranging themes for a thrilling literary journey.

Experiments in style: Reversed words

5 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
📚 Literature Writing Style Experimentation
  1. Experimenting with reworking text into different styles can be a fun and creative writing exercise.
  2. Tools like reversing the order of letters in words can lead to unique and interesting word combinations for storytelling.
  3. Exploring experimental writing styles can spark new ideas and provide fresh perspectives for writers.

Letter to Rebecca #24-03

7 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
📚 Literature Books Authors Genres Writing Reading
  1. The author responds to Rebecca's letter with a playful tone and shares insights about iconic locations in London.
  2. They discuss organizing books by size and express openness to culinary mash-ups.
  3. The author talks about their current read, practicing saxophone, and a dislike for the term 'solopreneur'.

Review of Fantasy: Realms of Imagination

7 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Exhibition Fantasy Literature Book Author
  1. Exhibitions can offer surprising insights, like broadening one's view of fantasy beyond traditional perceptions.
  2. Fantasy literature includes diverse genres like epics, quests, fairy tales, and more, showcasing a rich tapestry of storytelling.
  3. The exhibition 'Fantasy: Realms of Imagination' is described as sumptuous, featuring film excerpts, beautiful books, and interactive elements.

Start the week #53

8 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
📚 Literature Books Writing Authors Literary Analysis Reading
  1. The author shares humorous anecdotes about going to the dentist and the changes in dental practices over the years.
  2. The author reflects on the challenges of resisting overeating during the holidays.
  3. The author experiments with intentionally making typos in their writing, leading to engaging reader interactions.

Letter to Rebecca 24-02

7 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
📚 Literature Books Authors Language Novels Writing
  1. The writer shares their excitement about finding a book they think the recipient will like.
  2. The writer discusses the differences between English English and American English language.
  3. The writer humorously talks about organizing books by color and shares a funny anecdote about decorating.

Looking at epistrophe

3 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
📚 Literature Style Writing Life
  1. The post discusses the literary technique called epistrophe
  2. The author shares a personal encounter with a stray cat
  3. Readers are encouraged to subscribe for a 7-day free trial to access more content

Solitude and isolation

20 implied HN points • 05 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Isolation Solitude Art Literature Philosophy
  1. Solitude and isolation may not always be a personal choice, but can be externally imposed in various situations.
  2. Emptiness and isolation can be seen as different concepts, with emptiness having its own beauty and significance.
  3. Solitude and isolation may exist on a continuum, where true solitude can be found in wild places without human obligation.

All that jazz

16 implied HN points • 01 Jul 23
🎶 Music Jazz Musicians Improvisation Instruments Artistry
  1. Jazz music allows for reinterpretation and improvisation by different artists.
  2. Listening to jazz involves focusing on each instrument, appreciating their individual contributions, and then the ensemble as a whole.
  3. Syncopation in jazz music adds excitement and surprise, similar to a touch of chili sauce in a salad.

Welcome, nonfiction writers and readers

2 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
📚 Literature Writing Reviews Reflections
  1. Terry Freedman's newsletter is for nonfiction writers and readers, covering a range of topics from book reviews to experimental writing.
  2. The newsletter offers a mix of free content and a paid tier for those interested in deeper techniques and technology insights from the writer.
  3. The content includes personal reflections, book reviews like 'The Comfort of Strangers,' and experimentation with different writing styles.

Giving up sugar

15 implied HN points • 19 May 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition
  1. The importance of leading by example
  2. Sometimes it's necessary to experience change before advising others
  3. Simple stories can hold powerful messages

The romantic life of the book reviewer

14 implied HN points • 27 May 23
📚 Literature Book Reviews Authors Criticism
  1. Book reviewing involves tight deadlines that induce panic and paralysis.
  2. Some publishers can be unhelpful by not providing review copies or sending unreadable books.
  3. Author attacks can happen despite honest reviews, but the perks of book reviewing include acquiring books for free and becoming more informed.

The magic of magic

11 implied HN points • 24 Jun 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Magic
  1. Magic provides an escape from everyday rules and offers intimate experiences.
  2. Card magic has diverse forms, from skill-based to seemingly impossible tricks.
  3. A good magician should be humble, evoke wonder, and focus on engaging patter.

25 websites for free illustrations

14 implied HN points • 01 Apr 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Illustrations
  1. 25 websites listed in the post offer free illustrations, photos, and famous works of art.
  2. Always check the license terms when using images to ensure proper attribution and adherence to conditions.
  3. Popular websites like Canva, Pexels, and Unsplash provide high-quality images for free use.