Tumbleweed Words

Tumbleweed Words is a Substack that explores themes of societal struggles, personal reflections, and cultural experiences through poetry, fiction, and must-read discussions. It often highlights the impact of class, love, technology, inequality, and personal growth, offering readers a blend of introspective and outward-looking perspectives.

Poetry Fiction Cultural Commentary Personal Reflections Societal Struggles Love and Relationships Technology and AI Cultural Experiences

The hottest Substack posts of Tumbleweed Words

And their main takeaways

poetry as the current state of American media

7 implied HN points • 27 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Media Poetry Expression
  1. American media is chaotic and full of contradictions. It reflects a world where many things are happening at once.
  2. There are deep issues with governance and leadership. People feel unheard and question the decisions being made.
  3. Despite the turmoil, life goes on for many. People engage in everyday activities and seek entertainment amid the chaos.

indescretion | poem

35 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Prose Essays Literary Criticism
  1. The poem reflects on memories and experiences from childhood, using vivid imagery to convey emotions. It touches on themes of nostalgia and the bittersweet nature of growing up.
  2. It hints at the complexities of relationships and secrets, suggesting that not everything is as it seems. There are layers to every story and hidden truths among the surface.
  3. Nature and the environment play a significant role in the poem, illustrating how they shape our lives and memories. From the sound of waves to the warmth of knitted clothes, these elements evoke a strong sense of place.

fuck it

31 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Prose Drama Essays
  1. It's okay to acknowledge our family's past struggles, even if they involve violence. These experiences shape who we are today.
  2. Emotions and memories can be heavy, making us feel empty or lost at times. It's normal to feel this way.
  3. Finding joy or comfort in physical connections is important, even when dealing with painful memories. We can seek pleasure despite our past.

secret share | poem

28 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Prose Drama
  1. Secrets can weigh us down and cause feelings of shame. They are often left unspoken for years.
  2. The impact of not talking about our truths can create deep regret and sadness.
  3. Sometimes, warnings from loved ones remind us to stay away from painful past experiences.

a poet cliché | poem

35 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Drama Prose
  1. Poets often deal with deep emotions like heartache and despair in their work. This pain can inspire them to create profound art.
  2. The solitary life of a poet can come with sacrifices, like neglecting their appearance and personal comfort. They may look disheveled but their creativity shines through.
  3. Being a poet means facing loneliness and working through tough feelings. This struggle is often what makes their writing relatable and impactful.
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love is a complicated business | poem

24 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Drama Prose
  1. Love can be both beautiful and risky. It's like catching a falling star but can also hurt like a knife.
  2. Acceptance is a big part of love. Sometimes it means dealing with difficult feelings and waiting for something that may never come.
  3. Love is also shown in little moments, like unexpected kisses, and even in the stubbornness over who is right or wrong.

a brief history of poetry | poem

38 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Prose Essays Drama Criticism
  1. Poetry has a long and complicated history with many famous poets facing struggles in their lives. They often dealt with personal issues, fame, or political problems that affected their work.
  2. Some poets achieve great recognition and success, while others remain unknown but still create meaningful art. The value of poetry isn't always tied to fame.
  3. The experiences of poets can help connect with deeper feelings in people. Those who feel abandoned or outcast often have powerful insights that shine through in their writing.

big fight with the girlfriend over nothing really | poem

28 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Prose Narrative Creative Writing
  1. Sometimes fights can happen over small things that don't really matter. It's important to recognize when that happens.
  2. Words can hurt, and sometimes it's better to keep them to ourselves to avoid misunderstandings in relationships.
  3. Love can be unpredictable and requires balance; it's a give-and-take that can easily tip in the wrong direction.

does this happen to you, too? | poem

31 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Creative Writing Narrative
  1. The poem reflects on the comfort and familiarity of home, highlighting quiet moments and soft spaces. It captures how simple things, like a warm blanket or a dog, bring solace after a long day.
  2. Themes of loneliness and the search for deeper connections are present. There is an emptiness felt during late hours, hinting at a desire for something more meaningful than just watching news.
  3. The use of imagery, like 'plum drunk on cheap wine', evokes a sense of relaxation but also highlights a yearning for greater fulfillment in life. It suggests that sometimes we seek comfort but still feel unfulfilled.

a message of hope | must reads

14 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Essays Commentary Reviews Creative Writing
  1. Reading can offer hope and inspiration. It's important to explore and find new perspectives through literature.
  2. Helping others, like poets and writers, can create a supportive community. Everyone can contribute to lifting each other up.
  3. A free trial can give you a taste of great content. It's a good way to see if you'd like to continue reading more.

overheard conversation at the back of a bus | poem

28 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Drama Prose Essays
  1. People often talk about their relationships with friends, sharing updates and gossip. It's common to wonder if friends will get back together after a breakup.
  2. Friendship plans, like going out on Fridays, show how social gatherings are important in people's lives. Excitement about food deals can be a fun part of these outings.
  3. Everyday conversations can be noticed in public spaces, like buses, giving a glimpse into people's lives. Listening to others can reveal the little moments that matter.

street life | poem

31 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Nonfiction Narrative Creative Writing
  1. Heavy rain can remind us of the struggles of homeless people and those who are often overlooked in society. It's a tough reality, but it's hard to ignore when the rain falls.
  2. Capitalism can sometimes make us forget about the personal struggles of individuals. It's easy to focus on money and things rather than the well-being of others.
  3. Even though life can be harsh, rain can also symbolize a fresh start. While it can bring problems, it also has the power to cleanse and renew.

the ways to say, I love you | poem

28 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
📚 Literature Poetry Writing Expression Language Culture
  1. Spanish has more ways to express love compared to English, showing cultural richness in emotional expression.
  2. Expressions of love can be simple and come from the heart, not necessarily using many words.
  3. In Latin America, affectionate gestures like kisses and hugs are common, making love visible and accessible to everyone.

I really need your help

21 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Poetry Art Literature Expression Community
  1. Poets on Substack feel overlooked and want more visibility. They believe their voices deserve to be heard on this platform.
  2. The writer asks readers to help featured poems get recognized by liking a specific post. Simple actions from readers can make a big difference.
  3. There's a desire for a special edition focused on poetry in Substack Reads. This would celebrate poetic contributions and help poets gain the attention they seek.

where the fires burn 3 | fiction

17 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
⚔ Fiction Narrative Character Plot Themes Style
  1. The man experiences severe pain and isolation, feeling completely cut off from the outside world. His patience wears thin as he awaits news of a new destination.
  2. He survives on minimal food and water options, ordered from the owner of his building. The situation feels desperate, highlighting the severity of his living conditions.
  3. As time passes, his health slowly improves, and he realizes the bugs on his skin are evolving. This strange detail hints at the unsettling changes happening around him.

coupling | poem

14 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Prose Creative Writing Literary Criticism
  1. The poem explores deep connections between lovers and memories. It highlights how we understand experiences through others, even if we haven't lived them ourselves.
  2. There is a theme of not wanting to be alone, which binds the lovers together despite any conflicts. This shows how love can create strong emotional ties.
  3. The poem also emphasizes a connection to nature and our roles in the world. It reflects on being part of the larger picture, like being children of the earth.

a defender of people | poem

10 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Prose Essays Drama
  1. The poem reflects on the bond between friends, showing how shared experiences are important in friendship. It captures moments of connection, like watching each other and being present in tough times.
  2. There's a sense of nostalgia and growth as the speaker mentions their friend changing over time, from youth to maturity. This highlights how friendships evolve as we age and experience life together.
  3. The imagery used in the poem illustrates the beauty of observation and deep insight into another person’s life. It shows that just witnessing someone can create a powerful impact and foster understanding.

a lifelong partnership | poem

14 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Criticism Prose
  1. Long-term relationships often carry a sense of stability and permanence. It's nice to grow old together and reflect on life's journey.
  2. As couples age, they start to ponder deeper questions about their lives. They might think more about what really matters to them.
  3. Even after many years, love can feel fresh and impactful. The bond formed can leave lasting impressions, like a swan gliding gracefully on water.

have we met before? | poem

31 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Drama Literary Criticism
  1. Meeting new people often comes with casual questions like 'Have we met before?', especially at lively gatherings. It's a way to connect, even if you feel out of place.
  2. A lot of social situations feel more intense than they really are, filled with too much noise and overly serious conversations. It's easy to lose track of the fun.
  3. People often reveal a lot about themselves through their social behaviors and preferences. For instance, mentioning a local poetry night can spark a deeper understanding between strangers.

a 90s night out in the UK | poem

14 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Short Stories Creative Writing Narrative
  1. Feeling hungover and regretful is a common experience after a wild night out. It's normal to worry about what you did when you can't remember everything.
  2. Friends often share stories the next day, which can be funny but also a bit embarrassing. These conversations remind us of the craziness of the night before.
  3. Even after a rough morning, the idea of going out again can be tempting. It's easy to forget the bad parts when the excitement of night life calls again.

the thought that spills out | poem

42 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Non-fiction Essays Prose
  1. Poetry can give you confidence during tough moments, helping you communicate feelings you've been avoiding. It's like a comforting drink that encourages honest conversations.
  2. Emotional experiences can lead to tears, which poetry captures beautifully, showing how feelings can overwhelm us like an avalanche. It reminds us that emotions are powerful and can take control of our lives.
  3. Poetry often reflects the struggles we face, like long journeys in search of relief. It illustrates the challenges and the growth that comes from facing pain and searching for peace.

long breath of winter | poem

10 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Prose Literary Criticism
  1. Winter can be harsh, with icy winds and difficult conditions. It makes us feel cold and uncomfortable, often stuck indoors.
  2. People seek warmth and comfort during winter. Many gather around fires and enjoy hot drinks to feel cozy.
  3. Despite the challenges of winter, there's a sense of community when people come together. We share warmth and connection even in the cold.

undefeated | poem

38 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Short Stories Narrative
  1. True freedom comes from being in uncomfortable places without expectations. It’s about finding yourself in unexpected situations where you learn more about life.
  2. Even when life is tough, there are moments of peace among those who have very little. People keep waking up to face each new day, despite their struggles.
  3. Resilience is key. Despite hardship, some people still feel undefeated because they embrace their experiences, no matter how painful.

It grows | poem

21 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Essays Fiction Non-fiction Drama
  1. The poem talks about something that grows strong even without roots. It suggests resilience and strength in being different.
  2. There's a mention of a 'monster' that goes unnoticed but still makes its presence felt. This could mean that some things have a big impact even if they're not seen.
  3. It feels like the poem is encouraging us to accept things that don't fit in, showing that they can have their own importance and meaning.

just like a poet | poem

31 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Prose Essays Fiction Non-fiction
  1. Poets often spend a lot of time reflecting alone, which can lead to deep thoughts and memories. It's a journey where they confront their feelings and experiences.
  2. Pain and hurt are significant themes for poets, but they can also serve as motivation to create. This process is about finding meaning amidst the emptiness they sometimes feel.
  3. Despite their struggles, poets continue to write and express themselves. A simple heartbeat is enough reason for them to keep exploring their thoughts and emotions.

Thanksgiving | poem

28 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Prose Essays Narrative
  1. Thanksgiving is a time for gathering and feasting. Families come together to enjoy a meal and share moments.
  2. The poem highlights the beauty of nature and the harvest. It mentions picking fruits and being thankful for the food we have.
  3. There's a reflection on tradition and history. It reminds us of the importance of gratitude for connections to the past and each other.

inside every one is adventure | poem

31 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Prose Creative Writing
  1. Everyone has their own adventures and experiences, even if they haven't traveled far. It's about the journey and what you learn along the way.
  2. Regrets can weigh you down, but they also remind you of your past and the choices you've made. It's important to find warmth and comfort within yourself.
  3. Nature plays a big role in our lives and thoughts. The beauty of trees, stars, and landscapes can inspire us to keep moving forward, despite challenges.

truth is we all have it | poem

24 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Essays Fiction Non-fiction Prose
  1. Everyone has their own struggles and burdens in life. It's important to recognize what those are for yourself.
  2. Many people get overwhelmed by their needs and desires, almost like a deep hunger.
  3. Understanding who you are and why you make certain choices can help you deal with your personal challenges better.

I am the poet (ode to Walt Whitman)

31 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Drama Non-fiction
  1. The poet expresses a deep connection with nature and reality. They feel the beauty and truth in the world around them, like the song of a bird.
  2. The poet understands the relationship between human experiences and nature. They highlight the balance between warmth and loss in human interactions.
  3. There is a recognition of personal growth and change. The poet reflects on overcoming past scorn to embrace new virtues and ideas.

the difference between you & them is luck | poem

31 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Creative Writing Narrative Artistic expression
  1. Luck can often make a big difference between people. Some people get more opportunities simply because of chance.
  2. Living in tough conditions can be isolating and hard. The narrator describes a bleak living situation, which reflects feelings of confinement.
  3. Finding comfort or entertainment in everyday surroundings can be a coping strategy. The narrator counts bottles and needles as a way to distract from loneliness.

where fires burn | fiction

7 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
⚔ Fiction Narrative Prose Creative Writing Storytelling Literature
  1. The story reflects on a desolate world where people are suffering and struggling to survive. It paints a picture of desperation and loss, reminding us of humanity's need for hope.
  2. The main character encounters a woman and her child, symbolizing the fight for life even in the harshest conditions. Their situation evokes feelings of sadness and highlights the importance of compassion.
  3. The man's question, 'Where is tomorrow?', captures the essence of uncertainty and longing for a better future. It resonates with anyone who's ever felt lost or in need of change.

Americans have had enough of left MSM propaganda | article

24 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Public Opinion Political polarization Activism Cultural Issues
  1. Many Americans feel overwhelmed by mainstream media, believing it's focusing too much on divisive topics and spreading misinformation. They are tired of constant fear-mongering and the culture wars that make them feel anxious.
  2. People are frustrated with opinion pieces that seem more like propaganda than honest reporting. There's a desire for truth and accountability in the media instead of wild claims that lack evidence.
  3. A growing number of individuals are rejecting the narratives pushed by mainstream media. As more people become skeptical of these stories, they feel relieved and hopeful that the media's influence is starting to wane.

Chaos reigns across Great Britain | article

7 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Government Accountability Social Issues Public Policy Civic engagement
  1. Many people are upset about the lack of accountability in the UK government regarding serious issues, especially involving children. It's important for society to recognize these problems and demand change.
  2. There is a feeling that the current leadership in Britain operates like a criminal group, punishing those who speak out against injustices. This environment can lead to fear and silence among citizens.
  3. Unity and public outcry are crucial for avoiding further decline in society. Citizens need to stand together and call for a new government to bring about real change.

Friendship and politics | article

17 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Discourse Public Opinion Identity politics Social Issues
  1. Political discussions between friends can change dramatically over time. What once felt open and easy can become tense or emotional.
  2. Common issues like the cost of living can become more important than identity politics for many people. Understanding this shift can help bridge political divides.
  3. Maintaining friendships during political disagreements requires good faith and understanding. It's important to listen and engage in respectful conversations.

How democrats went from woke movement to fascist (esque) regime | article

14 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Movements Party Dynamics Social justice Activism Ideology
  1. The woke movement started as a way to fight against injustice and support marginalized groups. It was meant to bring people together and raise awareness about discrimination.
  2. Over time, some leaders of the woke movement have been accused of not helping those in need. Instead, they've been criticized for misusing funds intended for important causes.
  3. It's important to genuinely support the values of equality and kindness, not just preach about them. True advocacy requires action and honesty.

where the fire burns 2 | fiction

3 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
⚔ Fiction Narrative Prose Character Study World Building
  1. The main character reflects on the pain of losing comfort and warmth in life. He misses simple joys like the taste of sugar and the affection of his loved ones.
  2. The story highlights the harsh reality of control and oppression, as the boy faces Law Enforcers who take away his job and freedom without remorse.
  3. There’s a sense of hopelessness and struggle, as the characters deal with their bleak surroundings, and the loss of a sense of community and safety.

The US economic revolution is Republican—but should be bipartisan | article

7 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government spending Regulation Bipartisanship Political corruption
  1. The US economy is facing serious issues due to high government spending and regulations. If things don't change, the economy could face major problems soon.
  2. There's a lot of waste in government programs that don't get checked properly. This leads to money being spent on unnecessary things instead of building and improving infrastructure.
  3. Regulation and government overspending are hurting states like California. Instead of growth, people are seeing higher taxes, crime, and homelessness.

doing well | poem

106 implied HN points • 14 Nov 23
📚 Literature Poetry
  1. The post shares a poem about moments of contentment and distraction in life.
  2. The poem mentions finding solace in simple moments like reading and taking a hot bath.
  3. It reflects on how interactions with strangers or small incidents can prompt reflection on existence.