The hottest Arts Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

There's a universe in your phone & a universe in a tree

Blackbird Spyplane • 899 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. There's a lot of depth and enjoyment in nature. Taking time to stare at a tree or ride a bike can be more fulfilling than staring at your phone.
  2. Wearing what makes you happy, even if it means repeating outfits, is important. It's all about feeling good in what you wear and letting go of what others think.
  3. Good public schools can really shape someone's life. Access to music and art in school can inspire kids to chase their dreams.

The Rise of the News Avoiders. Plus . . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 329 implied HN points • 20 Mar 26
📰 News Arts
  1. A growing group of "news avoiders" is choosing to opt out of constant headlines and social feeds because algorithm-driven outrage and emotional overload harm their sanity, and they prefer calm, concise essays delivered straight to their inbox.
  2. Roald Dahl’s documented antisemitism is back in the spotlight as a Broadway play highlights his hateful remarks, forcing people to reckon with whether and how to separate beloved works from a creator’s poisonous views.
  3. The filibuster remains resilient because it protects vulnerable members of the Senate majority and averts endless partisan fights, so repeated threats to abolish it tend to stall or fail.

HALLOWEEN HORRORS (cont.)

THREE SEVEN MAFIA • 759 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Phantasm II is a sequel that captures the essence of the 1980s horror trend. It's a fun film with great action where the characters fight against a powerful evil entity.
  2. Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer is a dark and brutal film that portrays the reality of serial murder without glamorizing it. It's a raw look at a killer's life and actions.
  3. Prince of Darkness blends horror and science fiction in a unique way. It explores deep themes while maintaining a creepy atmosphere, making it a standout John Carpenter film.

18 Paying Pitch Calls & a Chance to Write About Budget Travel

The Sub Club Newsletter • 158 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Editors are looking for fresh New Year's stories and pitches, especially in January. You can share unique takes on resolutions or fun ways to celebrate the holiday.
  2. Now is a good time to pitch 'Best Of' lists for 2024. If you have creative ideas that aren't typical, editors would be interested in those topics.
  3. There are 18 new paid writing opportunities available from various publications. Writers can explore topics in travel, culture, and more for potential income.

The Best Online Articles of 2025

The Honest Broker • 12633 implied HN points • 15 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Exceptional longform pieces this year dug up surprising, overlooked stories—forgotten figures, strange experiments, and hidden personal dramas that stay with you.
  2. Deep reporting and archival work were used to make complex cultural, scientific, and political issues clear and emotionally resonant, turning data and history into vivid human narratives.
  3. The best essays spanned music, art, science, history, and politics, showing that longform storytelling remains a powerful way to explore and connect diverse aspects of modern life.
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The finer things in life

Austin Kleon • 6614 implied HN points • 02 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Being in a state of flow is key to happiness, as it helps us focus fully on what we love doing. This idea connects both athletes and artists, showing how engagement with our passions can bring joy.
  2. The Olympics brings out strong emotions in us, as we witness athletes pushing their limits. However, there’s a contrast between the real-life experiences of these athletes and the commercial push for technology and AI.
  3. Creative work often requires us to not overthink. Many athletes express that letting go of thoughts is what helps them perform better, which can also apply to how we approach creativity in our everyday lives.

How To Build Your Own Tower

The Ruffian • 460 implied HN points • 07 Mar 26
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Build a personal "tower"—regular, intentional solitude or focused time—to get distance and perspective from the nonstop news and information feed. Without those retreats you can get anxious and lose control over what you think about.
  2. Keep a disciplined daily habit like freeform writing or journaling; short, consistent sessions help ideas germinate and feed larger creative projects. This practice captures stray thoughts and turns them into usable material.
  3. Stay open to the world but choose when to engage with it, not the other way around. Controlling your information diet and stepping back sometimes leads to clearer judgment and better work.

The unexpected luxury of my local library

Jeff Giesea • 678 implied HN points • 01 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Local libraries can be really nice places to relax and read, with comfy seating and a peaceful atmosphere. If you haven't been to your library in a while, it's worth checking out!
  2. Libraries are better than coffee shops for working or studying because they are quiet and free. You can enjoy a calm space without having to buy overpriced drinks.
  3. Getting a library card can save you a lot of money. You can borrow books for free and explore new titles without spending anything.

The Rise and Fall of Hunter S. Thompson (Part 1 of 3)

The Honest Broker • 20014 implied HN points • 13 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Hunter S. Thompson had a rebellious spirit from a young age, getting into trouble with authorities and showing a knack for creating chaos. This pattern of causing news would shape his career in journalism later on.
  2. Despite his wild and reckless behavior, Thompson was very disciplined in his writing. He practiced by typing out classic books, which helped him develop a unique and powerful prose style.
  3. Thompson's approach to journalism broke conventional rules. He blended the story with his personal experiences and presented himself as part of the narrative, changing how people viewed non-fiction writing.

Things Worth Remembering: Elvis Costello Brought Poetry to Life

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1020 implied HN points • 01 Feb 26
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Music can make poetry feel immediate and accessible. It shows poetry doesn't have to be remote or obscure.
  2. A narrow focus on classical, canonical poetry can make poems seem distant and confusing. That approach can alienate readers and make poems feel chopped up.
  3. Finding a personal entry point, like song lyrics, can change how someone relates to poetry and even shape their creative path. A relatable gateway can open a lasting appreciation for poetic language.

The State of the Culture, 2024

The Honest Broker • 121016 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The entertainment industry is facing challenges like Disney in crisis, Paramount laying off employees, and a decline in TV shows, showing a shift towards a post-entertainment culture.
  2. The culture is transitioning towards a focus on distraction and addiction, with tech platforms using stimuli to create addictive cycles, impacting people's brains and happiness levels.
  3. As our culture evolves into a dopamine-driven society, it becomes essential to be mindful of our consumption habits, unplug from technology at times, and appreciate the real world around us.

Oh, hail no!

Austin Kleon • 5615 implied HN points • 12 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Standard Ebooks offers free and well-designed versions of classic books that are in the public domain. You can read great works without paying a dime.
  2. Working with your hands, like drawing or crafting, is really good for your brain. It's a nice way to relax and be creative.
  3. There’s a great community around Lynda Barry’s Comics Room that supports artists. It's a place where creativity and collaboration can really thrive.

Why Is the Washington Post Talking to Substack?

The Honest Broker • 10273 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The Washington Post is considering working with Substack to feature some of its writers. This shows a change in how traditional media views newer platforms.
  2. There is a trend where gamblers are now betting on music hits, similar to how sports betting works. People analyze song trends mathematically to make predictions.
  3. Beauty in art is a controversial topic, and the author challenges common views. There’s a suggestion that we should appreciate beauty beyond just its monetary value.

I'm joining a fellowship at the Mercatus Centre.

The Common Reader • 7123 implied HN points • 25 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The writer is starting a two-year fellowship at the Mercatus Centre in the USA, focusing on literature and liberal values. They aim to understand how great literature connects with ideas of human flourishing.
  2. They plan to explore how classical liberal thinkers and literature, like those by Adam Smith and J.S. Mill, can inform our understanding of society and individualism. They want to study the relationship between literature and liberal ideas.
  3. The writer believes in a revival of interest in the humanities and wants to encourage deeper reading of great works. They see this as essential for understanding life and happiness in today's culture.

We All Gotta Go

Ask E. Jean • 7311 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Consider creating or updating your will
  2. Think about where you keep your will for safekeeping
  3. Reflect on what you'd like to leave behind for loved ones or the world

Sweet Thames run softly while I sing my song

The Common Reader • 4890 implied HN points • 10 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. London is rich with history and literature, making it feel alive with the ghosts of famous writers and historical events. You can walk its streets and feel connected to the past.
  2. The city offers a mix of vibrant life and beautiful places, from busy streets to quiet parks. It has something for everyone, whether you're looking for culture, nature, or good food.
  3. There are countless memories tied to specific locations in London, creating a personal connection to the city. Each corner has a story, and it's a place full of life and experiences.

Coleman Hughes: What American Students Aren’t Taught About Slavery

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 7085 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Many American students aren't taught the full history and significance of slavery. It's important to understand this past to shape a better future.
  2. There's a wide discussion about how slavery has impacted many aspects of American culture and society. This includes different fields like business and social practices.
  3. Media and literature have changed how slavery is remembered, moving from ignoring it to exploring its deep legacy. This change helps us understand its effects on today's America.

The Unexpected Benefits of Starting a Small-Scale Dahlia Operation

Culture Study • 4744 implied HN points • 07 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Starting a dahlia operation can bring unexpected joys, like learning and growing alongside friends. It's a fun hobby that challenges you and helps you bond with others.
  2. Doing something like dahlia farming allows for creativity and collaboration without the stress of profit-making. It's about enjoying the process together rather than worrying about making money.
  3. Growing dahlias helps you notice small details in life and creates a sense of calm. It's a rewarding experience that connects you to nature and your community.

Should We Feel Sorry for White Men?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 737 implied HN points • 22 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. A viral essay argued that white millennial men have faced anti-white discrimination in elite arts and media over the last decade, calling those years a "lost generation" for that group.
  2. The piece provoked strong, polarized reactions across the political spectrum, with some praising its critique of diversity initiatives and others sharply criticizing it.
  3. The controversy turned the essay into a broader public conversation, prompting publications and writers to weigh in on whether white men are victims and what cultural changes are driving these disputes.

Kielbasa, Victorian houses, cursed names

Disaffected Newsletter • 1139 implied HN points • 15 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Life is more luxurious than we often realize, even in simple things like heating up food. Someone else handles all the hard work for us.
  2. The emotional reaction to political figures can feel feminine, expressing a deep fear and vulnerability. It's interesting to think about how these feelings affect people's views.
  3. Modern queer culture seems to have lost some of its wit and charm, replaced by a more superficial version. There's a longing for the character and humor of the past.

Are The Publicists On Strike Too

Hung Up • 7763 implied HN points • 15 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The entertainment industry has been affected by strikes of writers and actors, leading to a standstill in major studios and streamers.
  2. Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis faced backlash for supporting a friend accused of sexual assault, handling the situation poorly.
  3. Drew Barrymore is navigating the return of her talk show amidst industry strikes, choosing to go without a publicist and potentially risking controversy.

Love And Liberty

Astral Codex Ten • 28494 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Libertarians lack a dedicated holiday, unlike other ideological groups
  2. Love is seen as unfair, unsafe, and resists regulation unlike many other aspects of life
  3. The idea of love remains unique in its resistance to regulation compared to other fields like art and child-rearing

These dreams

Disaffected Newsletter • 1079 implied HN points • 03 Jun 24
📚 Literature Arts
  1. Some people's dreams can be really intense and dark, often reflecting unfinished business or unresolved fears from the past. They stick with you long after you wake up.
  2. Facing difficult or scary memories in dreams can be a way to process them and find some closure. It's like your mind is trying to help you deal with what happened.
  3. Even after changes in life, like therapy or distancing from harmful people, old dreams can resurface, but understanding them better can bring clarity and healing.

The life of Samuel Johnson's servant

The Common Reader • 2799 implied HN points • 20 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Frank Barber, who was originally born a slave in Jamaica, later moved to England and became a servant for Samuel Johnson. His life shows a unique journey from slavery to a more privileged position in society.
  2. Samuel Johnson treated Frank Barber with more kindness than many others of his time, often caring about his well-being and education. Their relationship was complex but ultimately supportive.
  3. Despite receiving money after Johnson's death, Frank Barber struggled financially and faced many hardships in his later life, including poor health and challenges in managing his finances.

Merry Christmas 2025

Computer Ads from the Past • 384 implied HN points • 28 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The message arrived later than planned because life got in the way.
  2. Warm holiday wishes are offered, saying Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to readers.
  3. There’s a hope the new year will bring more retro computer nerdiness and related content.

The humanities help us find the people we want to know.

The Common Reader • 3614 implied HN points • 26 May 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The humanities help us connect with like-minded people. Discussing books is a great way to make friends and enhance our lives.
  2. Sorting, selecting, and signaling are important benefits of studying the humanities. They help us find the right group and show others our interests.
  3. Reading great literature, like works from Jonathan Swift, can improve our understanding of each other and create a sense of community.

Can You Really Learn the Humanities in 52 Weeks?

The Honest Broker • 7480 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🚌 Education Arts
  1. You can learn the humanities in a year by following a structured plan with about 250 pages of reading each week. This makes it manageable and not overwhelming.
  2. The course covers a wide range of topics, including literature, art, and music, allowing you to explore human culture broadly.
  3. It's flexible; you can do it at your own pace and even join a reading group if you want to learn with others.

Late autumn is lit!

Austin Kleon • 3636 implied HN points • 08 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Late autumn is a wonderful time for bike rides and enjoying the changing leaves. It's a nice reminder to take advantage of the season's beauty.
  2. Shopping for the holidays can be stressful, but planning ahead and seeking out specific gift guides can make it easier. Consider gifts that reflect the recipient's interests, like books or food-related items.
  3. Year-end lists can be a great resource for discovering new movies and music. Checking out critics' favorites can help you find something cool to enjoy during the holiday season.

Retrograde rocket

Austin Kleon • 3437 implied HN points • 15 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Owls are fascinating creatures, and it's nice to enjoy their presence, especially during the season. There's a book that shares beautiful stories about an orphaned owl that might be worth checking out.
  2. Getting better at drawing can be a fun challenge, and there are helpful books for beginners. It's great to engage with art and connect with others who share the same interest.
  3. It's important to carve out time for your creative hobbies, especially during busy holidays. Taking a moment to reflect on your art practice can really help keep your passion alive.

What works of the humanities should undergraduates read?

The Common Reader • 2587 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🚌 Education Arts
  1. Undergraduates should read a broader range of humanities works, not just traditional literature like plays and novels. This can include philosophical texts and historical writings too.
  2. There's a belief that knowing about different important thinkers, like Plato and Shakespeare, can enrich our understanding of both literature and philosophy. They shouldn't be seen as separate subjects.
  3. The idea is to keep the humanities relevant in education by encouraging a diverse syllabus, allowing students to explore many types of important texts together.

Mr. Autumn Man, activated

Austin Kleon • 4656 implied HN points • 13 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Traveling to places can be a lot of fun, especially when you get to catch up with friends and explore local shops and events. It's great to discover new books and enjoy the surroundings.
  2. Listening to music while driving can really enhance the experience. Whether it's a rainy night drive or a flight, the right tunes make everything feel more exciting.
  3. It's nice to find joy in simple things, like favorite teas, walks, and creative projects. Sharing and learning about good experiences can make everyday life better.

The Universal Mirror

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 501 implied HN points • 30 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The Hinternet is becoming a paid subscription service starting January 1, and there are discounts available until the end of the year. It's a good opportunity to join the community while saving money.
  2. Writing and friendship are important themes, as they can lead to personal growth and happiness. Having supportive friends makes a significant difference in overcoming struggles.
  3. The goal of The Hinternet is to explore and reflect on everything in the universe, aiming to cover a vast range of topics and ideas, both real and imaginary.

Ketanji Brown Jackson Goes Broadway

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 6913 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Ketanji Brown Jackson became the first Supreme Court Justice to perform on Broadway. This was a special and historic moment for both her and the theater.
  2. She made a surprise appearance in a fun musical called '& Juliet,' which offers a twist on the classic Romeo and Juliet story. It's a modern and playful take that focuses on female empowerment.
  3. The musical is described as a campy satire, blending humor with social themes. It aims to challenge traditional narratives, making it memorable and possibly polarizing for audiences.

Focus!

Austin Kleon • 4316 implied HN points • 22 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Music memoirs can be a great way to relax and unwind, especially if you've read something heavy. They're often fun and refreshing.
  2. It's really important to focus on the learner in the education process, as they're the ones truly driving their learning journey.
  3. Getting creative and organizing your space can help spark new ideas and inspiration, like the concept of 'knolling'.

Hungry Theater

Public Universal Friend • 79 implied HN points • 31 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The author expresses a feeling of helplessness and chaos at the start of a new project, indicating mixed emotions about change.
  2. There are moments of deep conversation and creativity shared with friends, illustrating the importance of connection and brainstorming.
  3. The central goal of the project is to encourage a poet to join a specific platform, showing a desire to inspire others.

The Death of the Public Library

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2184 implied HN points • 08 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Public libraries are declining, not because people read less, but because they are being used more as shelters for the homeless.
  2. Many libraries are struggling with visitors and book circulation, making it hard for people to find a quiet space to read or study.
  3. Despite their beauty and potential, libraries like the Mandel in West Palm Beach are facing challenges that affect their original purpose.

The Weekend Press: Is Staying Married Taboo?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 440 implied HN points • 06 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Divorce is now often framed as a triumphant path to self‑actualization, even though overall divorce rates have fallen, and saying you stayed in a marriage because it was worth saving can feel countercultural.
  2. Celebrity culture is producing glossy, sometimes unintentionally funny content — Meghan Markle’s holiday special was described as charmingly sloppy and emblematic of that trend.
  3. There’s a public debate about travel etiquette, with pushback against wearing slippers or pajamas in airports and a call from some writers to travel in a more polished, gentlemanly way.

Waiting to be thrilled

Austin Kleon • 3437 implied HN points • 27 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. It's interesting to define yourself by what you won't do. This can help clarify your values and beliefs.
  2. While technology can be helpful, it's okay to be cautious about it. Asking questions and being skeptical can lead to better understanding.
  3. Taking time to enjoy great books can be fun, and sometimes you just need a little trick to get started.

Bari’s Picks Of The Week: High Art, Tough Love, Good News

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 394 implied HN points • 05 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. A new tough-love advice column is launching that promises blunt, practical guidance and is being pitched as a must-read for people seeking direct counsel.
  2. Internal discussions among gender-care professionals show many feel they are "winging it" with treatments for minors, which raises serious concerns about standards and oversight for vulnerable young patients.
  3. Michael Dell is donating $6.25 billion to boost Invest America starter accounts for children, aiming to give every kid a financial head start and improve long-term opportunities through early savings and literacy.

Open Mic Day: Tells Us About Your Favorite Movies, Music, Books, Etc. of 2024

The Honest Broker • 5818 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Share your favorite movies, music, books, and more from 2024. Everyone loves to hear new recommendations!
  2. It's important to have fun and take a break from serious topics sometimes. Sharing our creative finds can lift our spirits.
  3. When sharing, try not to promote your own projects this time. This is about celebrating what others have created.