The hottest Artistic expression Substack posts right now

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Top Literature Topics

How Khorya And Borya Smuggled A Chort

Soaring Twenties • 77 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Creative Writing Narrative Artistic expression
  1. Khariton and Boris are involved in a chaotic plan to smuggle a creature called a chort, leading to humorous and dangerous situations.
  2. The story mixes comedic bickering between characters, showing their cleverness and flaws, as they deal with unexpected challenges.
  3. The ending hints at themes of friendship and camaraderie, even when things go wrong.

The Art, The Tragedy, The Art of Tragedy, The Tragedy of Art

The Lifeboat • 321 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Drama Non-fiction Artistic expression
  1. Writers feel a strong urge to express themselves. If something wants to be written, it's important to let it out instead of holding it back.
  2. Art often comes from experiencing tragedy or hardship. Even in tough times, writers can create meaningful works that reflect their feelings and the world's problems.
  3. The process of writing is a journey of self-discovery for an author. They are truly themselves when they are actively creating, while at other times, they might feel like someone else.

પ્રેમનું પરિબળ

Poems, Short stories and other things.. • 29 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Short Stories Creative Writing Artistic expression
  1. Love can make everything feel bright and beautiful, even in tough times. It can change how we see the world around us.
  2. When love ends, it brings new clarity and makes us face reality. We may start questioning our past experiences and feelings.
  3. After heartbreak, there's a fear of falling in love again. It can feel heavy and it's hard to know if we want to try love once more.

Deleted scenes, essays, updates, and plans, or a lack thereof

The Lifeboat • 195 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Essays Publishing Reviews Artistic expression
  1. The author has written several essays addressing themes like Truth, Freedom, and the impacts of authoritarianism, influenced by their experiences in Russia. These essays aim to engage readers and connect with their book.
  2. Cultural commentary includes a notion of finding humor in others' reactions to opinions that challenge their beliefs, emphasizing a sense of detached amusement rather than vindictiveness.
  3. Positive reviews for the author's work from unfamiliar readers suggest that the book resonates widely, even beyond its original context, which boosts the author's confidence in their storytelling.

What’s the matter?

Austin Kleon • 2058 implied HN points • 01 Aug 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual Arts Creative Process Artistic expression Cultural Commentary Art Education
  1. Asking 'What’s the matter?' helps us understand what's bothering us and can lead to artistic ideas. It's a question that sparks creativity.
  2. The discomfort or irritation we feel can be the starting point for new work. Those feelings can inspire us to create something meaningful.
  3. We can also think about 'matter' in terms of the physical materials we use, like paint or paper. Getting hands-on might help when we're unsure of what to create.
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Karma Police

Castalia • 159 implied HN points • 01 May 24
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Narrative Character Study Artistic expression
  1. Growing up in a middle-class family can shape how you view money and success. The main character, Jon, learned about budgeting and finances from his parents, which influenced his choices later in life.
  2. Artistic ambition can sometimes clash with practical family expectations. Jon's desire to be a painter conflicted with his parents' focus on traditional stability and financial security.
  3. Karma can play a role in personal journeys. Jon feels that through his success, he's also fulfilling a legacy linked to his past and the painter who lived in the family loft before him.

On regret: Two poets from two different centuries

Subtle Digressions • 99 implied HN points • 30 May 24
📚 Literature Poetry Creative Writing Artistic expression Historical Analysis
  1. Many people feel deep regret about not pursuing their creative passions as they reach the end of their lives. It's important to honor your creative urges and make time for them.
  2. According to poets Mary Oliver and Margaret Elizabeth Sangster, the regrets often come from things left undone rather than mistakes made. Missing opportunities can lead to heartache.
  3. Both poets highlight the emotional weight of unexpressed feelings and neglected connections. It’s a reminder to reach out and do the things that matter to us.

The Art of Psychosis

Litverse • 259 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Creativity Inspiration Artistic expression
  1. Creativity can be seen as a form of divine possession rather than a conscious process.
  2. Insanity and inspiration are intertwined, with creativity often flowing from a state of being 'possessed.'
  3. Artistic expression for some individuals like Jim Morrison involves a deep connection to spirituality and a belief in being guided by external forces.

Pop über alles

Banana Peel Pirouette • 197 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Music Youth culture Pop culture Social Commentary Artistic expression
  1. The evolution of music criticism, the rise of poptimism, and the shift towards commercial pop music have reshaped the music scene and challenged traditional ideas of authenticity and subcultural affiliation.
  2. The collapse of the middle ground in the music industry mirrors broader economic shifts, with mainstream pop stars dominating the landscape and influencing youth culture.
  3. Poptimism and hustle culture celebrate a pragmatic acceptance of commercial success over traditional values like originality and authenticity, reflecting a broader cultural trend driven by economic realities and the digital age.

At the edge of my map

Austin Kleon • 1418 implied HN points • 17 May 22
🎭️ Culture Relationships Personal Growth Artistic expression Gaming Life Changes
  1. Sometimes, we reach a point in life where we feel lost or unsure, like being at the edge of a map. It's okay to acknowledge that feeling without fear.
  2. Being a good friend means listening and asking questions, especially when someone is going through tough changes. Support is crucial during uncertain times.
  3. In life, just like in video games, we might hit invisible walls that stop our progress. Understanding this can help us be patient as we navigate through unfamiliar territories.

Scribbling in Long-Handed Oblivion

Variations on a Theme • 119 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Handwriting Personal Reflection Artistic expression
  1. Handwriting with a pen and paper is becoming less common as digital recordkeeping takes over in schools and workplaces.
  2. Small amounts of tension, whether in handwriting or playing an instrument, can greatly affect the quality of output, emphasizing the importance of relaxation and slowing down.
  3. Taking time to slow down, enjoy simple rituals like drinking coffee, and using old-fashioned pen and paper can provide peace and preparedness for whatever the day brings.

Rubble

Nice Try • 319 implied HN points • 03 Aug 23
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Prose Creative Writing Artistic expression
  1. Love can be chaotic and unpredictable, just like falling for someone who may not be good for you. It's important to embrace the wild moments, even if they come with risks.
  2. Life is about enjoying the small things and finding happiness in unexpected experiences. Sometimes, we just have to let go and live in the moment.
  3. The messiness of life can be humorous and relatable, like dealing with the aftermath of silly events or maintaining connections with people we care about.

the difference between you & them is luck | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 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.

The Court, The Retweat, and The Bear: Giving AF is the Common Thread

The Chancery Daily • 379 implied HN points • 31 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture TV shows Life reflections Work ethic Artistic expression Human connection
  1. The common thread in the post is the importance of giving a fuck about the work you do and the people around you.
  2. The show "The Bear" exemplifies the idea of moving purposefully and fixing things, rather than moving fast and breaking things.
  3. The story shared reflects on personal mortality consciousness, a deep work ethic, and the value of caring deeply about work and people.

Amy, Her City

Banana Peel Pirouette • 118 implied HN points • 10 Nov 23
📚 Literature Short Story Character development Imagination Mystery Artistic expression
  1. People often create elaborate worlds in their minds, like Amy's dream city, which can become a source of obsession and comfort.
  2. Our perceptions of others can greatly influence how we view ourselves and the world around us.
  3. The line between reality and imagination can blur, leading to a search for something that may not even exist in the way we hope.

How fascism is hijacking our pop culture coping mechanisms

Teniade Topics • 137 implied HN points • 01 May 23
🎭️ Culture Pop culture Media Literacy Artistic expression Youth culture Ethics
  1. Pop culture is being used as a coping mechanism in the face of fascism.
  2. There is a shift towards valuing plot efficiency over art and depth in movies and media.
  3. Debates about on-screen sex scenes involve discussions about consent, relevance to the plot, and the balance between moral complexity and protection in a neofascist era.

The Podcast Tax: If You’re Paying Taxes, You’re Paying For Government Podcasts!

OpenTheBooks Substack • 108 implied HN points • 27 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government funding Podcasts Artistic expression
  1. The federal government has funded numerous podcasts on various topics, including agriculture, linguistics, and religious life, some with ideologically charged content.
  2. The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) have primary roles in funding podcasts for artistic and cultural expression.
  3. Many Americans might view the government-funded podcasts as wasteful spending, especially in light of the increasing national debt and the questionable topics covered.

Aaron Moultan: Love Letter to the Secret Sleeper Cell

Do Not Research • 99 implied HN points • 27 Oct 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Community Creative Process Cultural Exchange Artistic expression
  1. The author recounts their deep involvement and transformative experience within a secret online community called the 'Super Secret Sleeper Cell' on Discord, where they found a sense of belonging and creative inspiration.
  2. Through connections made in this online community, the author underwent a spiritual and artistic awakening, leading them to question the traditional art world and empower themselves to create new forms of expression.
  3. The narrative evokes themes of community, artistic resilience, the power of online connections, and the idea of embracing change and new beginnings through creative collaboration and self-discovery.

Moment in the Sun

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 04 Oct 23
📚 Literature Short Stories Creative Writing Narrative Artistic expression
  1. Creative careers often lead us to unexpected roles, like producing instead of purely making art. Producing can be rewarding in its own way, focusing on the behind-the-scenes work that holds everything together.
  2. Community support is vital during group projects like independent films. Everyone is working hard, and it's important to remember that we are all in it together, sharing both the struggles and the joys.
  3. Talented individuals sometimes disconnect from the group dynamic, which can be challenging. Acknowledging that everyone contributes differently can help maintain harmony, even if some are more difficult to work with.

The Happiest Sad Man Alive

The False Consensus Effect • 39 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Artistic expression Personal reflections
  1. Creative poverty can lead to a sense of freedom and contentment, sparking new perspectives and heightened joy in everyday life.
  2. Expressing oneself through art can be a powerful way to feel deeply and connect with others, enriching both the giver and the recipient.
  3. Embracing simplicity and reducing consumption can bring about a renewed outlook on life, with fresh eyes to appreciate the ordinary and find joy in the mundane.

What I Ought To Be Doing: Planting and Growing

polymathematics • 139 implied HN points • 13 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Creativity Identity Self-discovery Personal Development Artistic expression
  1. Exploring multiple interests is important. You don’t have to stick to one path, and trying new things can lead to personal growth.
  2. Finding what you love is a journey. It's crucial to pay attention to how activities make you feel and find the right mix of skills and enjoyment.
  3. Impact matters in your work. Think about how what you do can benefit the world, and remember that it's fine to have hobbies outside of your career.

Afterlife

Castalia • 199 implied HN points • 22 Jul 22
📚 Literature Short Stories Fiction Narrative Character development Artistic expression
  1. Exploring the past can reveal hidden treasures, like old photographs that tell stories of people and moments forgotten. It's like finding pieces of history in your own home.
  2. Photography can capture emotions and experiences in ways that may not always be recognized until much later. A casual snapshot can hold deeper significance than we realize.
  3. Navigating relationships with family, especially when it comes to memories and possessions, can be complicated. It's essential to communicate openly and make decisions together about what matters most.

A Winter’s Tangerine

Critic at Large • 19 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
📚 Literature Poetry Short Stories Visual art Photography Artistic expression
  1. Winter Tangerine was a short-lived magazine created by a young African poet to amplify unheard voices through poetry, short stories, and visual art.
  2. The magazine showcased the evolution of poems through a section called 'Shedding Skins' and featured exceptional visual art alongside literary works.
  3. Winter Tangerine provided a platform for emerging writers and artists, particularly from marginalized communities, offering imaginative language and unique perspectives.

G is for Gionfriddo

Castalia • 79 implied HN points • 28 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Theater Feminism Artistic expression American Literature
  1. Gina Gionfriddo is a talented playwright whose works explore complex themes like sexuality and female behavior. Her writing is known for being funny yet dark, tackling subjects that many shy away from.
  2. Despite her early success and critical acclaim, Gionfriddo's career faced challenges, leading to fewer productions in later years. This raises questions about the support and opportunities available for playwrights in today's theater scene.
  3. Her plays often reflect the tensions and anxieties of modern society. Gionfriddo's characters navigate a world filled with both humor and harsh realities, making her work both engaging and thought-provoking.

Notes from Retreat

As Ever • 7 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Spiritual growth Artistic expression Personal Reflection Community Creative Process
  1. Spiritual exercises help us face our true selves. It's important to be honest about who we are and what we feel.
  2. Artists have a responsibility to share beauty that helps others. Creating art should be about serving people, not just seeking approval.
  3. Change can be scary because it means letting go of what we know. Trusting in a higher purpose can lead to surprising growth and deeper understanding.

I just met Bob Dylan 🎨

Mindful Musings • 83 implied HN points • 14 Feb 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual Arts Artistic expression Community Engagement
  1. The author shares a story of encountering an artist named Blob Dylan in Brooklyn, which seemed to resonate deeply with them.
  2. Despite the mystery and intrigue surrounding Blob Dylan, the author ultimately learns that heroes may not always meet expectations when met in person.
  3. The encounter with Blob Dylan inspires the author to realize the power of having a dream and making a mark on the world, encouraging readers to embrace their own potential for change.

Let us Aspire

Natural Selections • 8 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Human flourishing Craftsmanship Artistic expression Social Critique
  1. Many people today earn money but don't create or build things anymore. Instead of making, we're becoming consumers, often just using technology without creating anything meaningful.
  2. Having pride in workmanship and making things is important for our happiness. Engaging physically with the world can lead to personal fulfillment and a deeper connection to our communities.
  3. Instead of focusing on breaking systems, we should strive to create and build. Craftsmanship and making beautiful things can lead to a new era of human flourishing.

Valentine’s Moon

The False Consensus Effect • 19 implied HN points • 12 Feb 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Paintings Visual art Creative Writing Imagery Artistic expression
  1. Valentine's Moon celebrates love and the temporary nature of life, promoting a moment of release and contentment.
  2. The text delves into the impact and significance of early love and courting experiences, suggesting a need to reclaim the poetic joy found in those relationships.
  3. The author ponders the influence of societal norms and the modern world on love and happiness, advocating for a reconnection with romantic love and wisdom.

Of Oscillons and Cybernetic Tortoises

Cybernetic Forests • 19 implied HN points • 06 Sep 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Digital Art AI Art Emerging technologies Artistic expression
  1. Ben Laposky created early computer-generated art using oscilloscopes, demonstrating the blending of art and technology.
  2. The definition of AI has evolved over time, with different companies and eras defining it based on their needs.
  3. Artificial intelligence can be viewed as a product of relationships between components, like with the Cybernetic Tortoises, rather than just data-driven processes.

I Am Not Going to Try and Sell a Painting

The False Consensus Effect • 39 implied HN points • 14 May 21
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Artistic expression Social Commentary Activism Personal Reflection
  1. Art is not for sale as a commodity; it should continue beyond the sale and be a process that the buyer engages in.
  2. Consider boycotting products that support causes you do not agree with, like Sabra hummus supporting Israeli military bosses.
  3. Engage in practical actions, like supporting political candidates aligned with your values, to address issues you are passionate about, such as challenging Apartheid.