The hottest Arts Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Harvard, Dog and Cat People, Casual Sex

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1458 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Women tend to feel more loneliness and regret after casual sex, while men generally feel happier and more satisfied.
  2. In the Soviet Union, educated people were more supportive of communism compared to those with less education, showing that privilege can influence political beliefs.
  3. Trust levels vary by nationality; only a small percentage of Chinese citizens trust those from different countries, while much higher percentages in Germany, the US, and Australia do.

Street Smart Support

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 119 implied HN points • 03 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Supporting the newsletter helps keep it going and allows the writer to share interesting topics about nature and history.
  2. Sharing previous newsletters with friends can spark fun conversations and encourage outdoor adventures together.
  3. There are different subscription options available for those who want to support the newsletter further and receive regular updates.

The Class Tier List

Knowingless • 1256 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. People judge class based on wealth and aesthetic taste. For example, some activities may be rich but seen as low-class in taste, while others might be poor yet viewed as classy.
  2. A survey was conducted to rank various items by class, but it was only a small snapshot of one specific culture. The responses were mostly from young American men.
  3. The context of class rankings can vary and lead to surprising results, illustrating that people's perceptions of class are influenced by trends and cultural views.

How Being an Intelligence Officer Made Me a Better Writer

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 324 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Having a background in intelligence can improve writing skills. It helps in understanding complex characters and motivations.
  2. Reading fiction is important for writers. It builds empathy and a deeper understanding of others, which is crucial in storytelling.
  3. The journey from being a special operator to a writer can be surprising, but both roles require strong observation and understanding of human behavior.

Dostoevsking

The Lifeboat • 470 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Dostoevsking is a funny idea about enduring a long wait for the writer Dostoevsky to come out of a door. It's like a silly sport where people sit and hope he will appear, even though no one knows if he is really there.
  2. The competition involves a lot of waiting and suffering, like holding in your bladder when you really need to go. Participants get desperate but believe it's worth it to see what lies behind the door.
  3. This whole concept shows how people can get really obsessed with waiting for something big, even if it leads to pain or frustration. It’s a playful way of talking about literature and the human experience of longing.
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The Read Max Gift Guide 2024

Read Max • 1132 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
📚 Literature Arts
  1. The guide suggests fun and unique gifts like comfy but quirky slides and slippers.
  2. It also recommends books that kids love and even a fancy clock for high-end tastes.
  3. By subscribing, you can get more cool recommendations and support the ongoing mission of the Read Max community.

Calling the Lonely Charts Club!

Chartbook • 801 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. There's a fun initiative where people can create personal ads looking for partners who share similar interests, especially in political economy and culture.
  2. The project encourages creativity in writing these ads, making them unique and tailored to individual preferences.
  3. People can submit their ads anonymously through a Google form, making it easier to express themselves.

Haircut for a Poem

Splattern • 119 implied HN points • 22 May 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Barbershops are important places in communities, where people gather and share stories. They create a special bond between the barber and their clients.
  2. Vaughn Acord, a talented hairstylist, listens to his clients and helps them express their true selves. It's not about his vision, but about bringing out their own unique style.
  3. Life should be about contributing to the community and making a difference. Helping others and sharing experiences can lead to a fulfilling life.

Best Books, Movies, and Music of the year

Read Max • 922 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The roundup highlights standout books, movies, and music from the past year. It's a great way to discover new favorites.
  2. There are fun and unique awards like 'Best alternate histories' and 'Best song my son loved.' These categories make it more engaging.
  3. Readers are encouraged to interact by sharing recommendations or asking for specific suggestions. It's a community-focused approach.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 82

Why is this interesting? • 60 implied HN points • 06 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The 1913 Webster's dictionary is appreciated by some for its clarity and timelessness, showing that older dictionaries can still be relevant today.
  2. The 'Rest is History' podcast is gaining recognition as a significant cultural achievement for Britain, celebrated for its engaging storytelling.
  3. Year-end lists from various publications are showcasing the best of TV and music, highlighting what people loved throughout the year.

Mornings with his Majesty

Disaffected Newsletter • 899 implied HN points • 26 May 23
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Mornings are special times, often enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee. They can be a great way to start the day peacefully.
  2. Cats can have unique personalities, and some seem to have a strong awareness of their surroundings. It's fun to watch how they behave and interact with their environment.
  3. Having a pet can bring joy and companionship, making mornings feel more lively and interesting. Spending time with them can create cherished moments.

Thank You!

Unpopular Front • 58 implied HN points • 26 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The newsletter is approaching its fifth anniversary, which is a significant milestone. It's a celebration of the journey and the community built over the years.
  2. The support from paying subscribers has been essential in keeping the newsletter alive and thriving. It's a reminder of how important community backing is for any project.
  3. The newsletter started after the author experienced a layoff, showing how challenges can lead to new opportunities and creativity. It highlights resilience in difficult times.

Hidden Open Thread 355.5

Astral Codex Ten • 894 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. This is an open thread for subscribers to discuss various topics. It's a space for people to share their thoughts and engage with one another.
  2. The post is meant for paid subscribers, indicating exclusive content. This means only those who support the platform can participate.
  3. Readers are encouraged to share the post, which helps increase visibility and engagement. Sharing can also foster a sense of community among subscribers.

Love poem

Splattern • 79 implied HN points • 27 May 24
📚 Literature Arts
  1. The speaker expresses a clear affection for someone they like. It's simple but sweet!
  2. They mention an adventure in Africa, suggesting a desire for shared experiences.
  3. The invitation to hold hands shows a longing for connection and intimacy.

Hidden Open Thread 360.5

Astral Codex Ten • 688 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. This post is for paid subscribers only, meaning you need a subscription to access the content.
  2. There’s an open thread format where subscribers can engage with the content and share their thoughts.
  3. It encourages community interaction and discussion among its members.

Sing us a song, Piano Man

Variations on a Theme • 79 implied HN points • 16 May 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Orchestral performances post-pandemic had strict protocols like mandatory masking and limited seating, creating a surreal experience for attendees.
  2. The experience of attending a classical music ensemble's show with limited audience and upgraded seats was a stark contrast to the previous Kafkaesque experience.
  3. The power of music lies in its ability to evoke emotions and memories, as shown by the comparison between 'Kafka Fragments' and 'Piano Man.'

Morning Mina

Disaffected Newsletter • 899 implied HN points • 21 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Having a loving pet can make a big difference in your life. Cats can offer companionship and joy.
  2. It's important to find things that bring you happiness. Little moments with pets can brighten your day.
  3. Supporting creators and writers can help them continue their work. Subscribing to newsletters is a way to show support.

Will 2024 be a prosperous year for Manchester?

The Mill • 176 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. 2024 is predicted to be prosperous for Manchester based on the Chinese calendar
  2. Manchester is celebrating the Year of the Dragon with various events and performances
  3. Local events in Manchester include art exhibitions, live music gigs, and cultural celebrations

The New Magisterium

Wrong Side of History • 227 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Censorship has changed over time; it used to be strict but now new taboos and speech codes have replaced the old ones. This means people still try to control what can be said, just in different ways.
  2. In the past, there was a time when it was okay for art and comedy to be very free and offensive. Shows like 'South Park' pushed boundaries that couldn't have been crossed before, showing a shift in cultural acceptance.
  3. Now, there seems to be a new movement to impose moral standards again, reminding us that the desire to censor has never really gone away, and it might be getting stronger.

Buckle Up. Things Are About to Get Weird.

Think Future • 139 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The newsletter provides forecasts, perspectives, and tools to create a better world.
  2. Topics discussed in upcoming newsletters include the 2024 presidential election scenarios and ramifications of Supreme Court decisions.
  3. Other intriguing topics include a giant clock in the desert, Swedish death cleaning, and personal stories about hope and future.

Maybe Your Opinion Is Just a Feeling About a Story

The Ruffian • 503 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Opinions can often be influenced by emotions rather than facts. It's important to recognize when your feelings about a story shape your views.
  2. The debate around the Elgin Marbles shows that we can change our minds when we learn more and see different perspectives about a historical issue.
  3. Identifying and understanding the narratives around controversial topics can help us make more informed decisions and avoid biases based on tribal feelings.

vrk the marketer

vrk loves paper • 139 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The main goal is to create a magazine called Pouch, but the bigger dream is to develop software called Pouch Studio for paper lovers. This software will help people easily make both paper and digital crafts.
  2. Marketing Pouch is challenging, and the author is trying different methods like Instagram, featuring creators, and attending fairs to spread the word and build a community around paper crafting.
  3. The author wants to make a fun, engaging magazine to support paper enthusiasts while learning more about design and marketing. Feedback from readers is important to know if Pouch is succeeding.

A vacation diary

Austin Kleon • 1678 implied HN points • 15 Feb 22
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Deciding to go on a trip can be tough, especially after staying home for a long time, but exploring new places usually helps you grow. It's important to ask yourself if the experience will make you feel bigger or smaller.
  2. Traveling to new cities can be magical, especially when you get lost in the beauty of the surroundings and the stories found in books that match the setting.
  3. When traveling with kids, it's smart to wake up early and find fun outdoor activities to wear them out before starting the day's adventures. It keeps everyone happy and makes the trip more enjoyable.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 35

Why is this interesting? • 422 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The article highlights interesting links shared in group chats, focusing on diverse topics for weekend reading.
  2. One featured piece discusses how two actors found a creative outlet in Grand Theft Auto during the pandemic.
  3. Another article looks at trends in substance use among U.S. teens, revealing interesting shifts in behavior.

Hidden Open Thread 351.5

Astral Codex Ten • 550 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. This is a post for paid subscribers only, so you need to subscribe to access the content.
  2. Readers are encouraged to engage and share their thoughts in the comments.
  3. The thread seems to be a place for open discussions and sharing various topics among subscribers.

What's got my attention this week #30

The Shift With Sam Baker • 199 implied HN points • 15 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The Shift With Sam Baker is a reader-supported publication, with opportunities for free or paid subscriptions.
  2. The post mentions interesting articles and stories to read, watch, and listen to over the weekend.
  3. It highlights notable content like Sharon Stone's art, Elizabeth Gilbert's Oldster questionnaire, Margaret Atwood's sermon, and more.

Interview with Carol Coletta: Why Public Space is Fundamental to Democracy

The New Urban Order • 119 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Growing up in Memphis, Carol Coletta's love for urban environments and interaction with diverse communities sparked her interest in city development.
  2. Leadership in city initiatives can come from unexpected places, showing the importance of finding and fostering leadership across different sectors.
  3. The impact of public spaces like parks goes beyond recreation, serving as a crucial platform to promote social connection, equity, and community building.

HOISTED FROM THE ARCHIVES: Reviewing Alan Furst's Novel "Dark Star"

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 307 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
📚 Literature Arts
  1. Alan Furst's novel 'Dark Star' is praised as one of the best books about Europe in the 1930s. It captures the tense atmosphere of that time better than many historical accounts.
  2. The story revolves around a character named Andre Szara, who navigates the dangers of living under oppressive regimes while trying to survive and help others.
  3. The novel highlights the moral ambiguities of the era, where allies and enemies were often blurred, making readers think about the complexities of political choices.

Units

Dada Drummer Almanach • 115 implied HN points • 25 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The traditional role of arts critics is changing, with some being reassigned to different duties at major publications. This shift raises questions about the future of arts coverage.
  2. There's a belief that reviews play an important role in shaping our understanding and appreciation of art. However, some argue that personal experiences with art have less economic significance in today's digital world.
  3. The decline of daily arts reviews could lead to a more impersonal approach to covering culture, which might not resonate with audiences or support individual artists like it once did.

Why you can't bring a roast to a rally

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 427 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Comedy works best in the right context. A roast at a comedy club is different from jokes at a political rally. The audience needs to understand that it’s supposed to be funny.
  2. Intentions behind jokes matter, but so does the setting. If the environment is charged with negativity or hostility, jokes might not land well.
  3. Fame can be tricky in comedy. Just because someone is popular online doesn’t mean everyone knows them. This disconnect can change how people react to their humor.

Premium AMAAA

Bet On It • 90 implied HN points • 18 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. This is a special session where paid subscribers can ask any questions, encouraging openness. It's a chance for people to get answers directly from the host.
  2. In the past, questions may have been limited, but now there's an invitation to be more bold and candid with inquiries. The goal is to foster a fun and honest dialogue.
  3. Only paid subscribers can post questions, but everyone can read them. This makes it an exclusive event that's still accessible to all followers.

Coming soon

Connecting Dots • 19 implied HN points • 10 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. There is an upcoming content piece called 'Connecting Dots' that will be available soon.
  2. You can subscribe to the content for updates and more information.
  3. It seems to involve sharing ideas or perspectives in an engaging way.

Notes on Effective Altruism

Samstack • 1422 implied HN points • 24 May 23
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Effective Altruism encourages donating to impactful charities.
  2. Effective Altruists can be susceptible to pervasive memes and groupthink.
  3. EAs are often friendly, nerdy, and give generously to charity, but lack cognitive diversity.

Trying not to spiral out

Austin Kleon • 1199 implied HN points • 04 Feb 22
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Finding beauty in tough situations can help us grow. It's important to look for the silver lining during difficult times like storms.
  2. Reading a variety of books can expand our understanding and inspire creativity. Mixing different genres like essays and novels can keep our minds engaged.
  3. Sharing enjoyable activities with family strengthens bonds. Playing games, baking, and watching shows together can create lasting memories.

Some things are not to be fucked with

Message from the Underworld • 196 implied HN points • 22 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. Some things like GJ 367b, a dense exoplanet, are not to be messed with.
  2. The indigenous people of North Sentinel Island are not to be messed with, as seen in the case of an American missionary.
  3. Sean Bonney's powerful poetry is not to be messed with, reflecting the global mood and social activism.

Four Prose Poems

Dada Drummer Almanach • 105 implied HN points • 07 Jul 25
📚 Literature Arts
  1. The cat feels at home in the night and can relax while reading without worrying about notes. It's a reminder to be comfortable and at ease with our thoughts.
  2. When we look in the mirror, our features may seem odd or untrustworthy, but it's just how we perceive ourselves. Our identity can be complex, and we shouldn’t be quick to judge.
  3. Writing can be unpredictable, much like a criminal's actions. Just because someone creates something once doesn’t mean they will do it again, highlighting the uniqueness of each creative act.

Living In The Dark Timeline: How Do We Find Hope?

Strange Wonder • 98 implied HN points • 28 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The world seems to be heading towards a dark and dystopian timeline with disturbing events unfolding.
  2. There is a decline in the stability and goodness of societies, with environmental crises worsening and political situations becoming bleak.
  3. Individuals can find hope by seeking out spaces of positivity and community amidst the chaos, even if large-scale change seems daunting.

the haunting image of a "best newsboy" kid's costume from Target

Both Are True • 96 implied HN points • 07 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. The image of the 'best newsboy' costume makes the viewer feel uneasy, especially because the boy appears small and distant. It raises questions about connection and authenticity.
  2. There's something awkward about the costume itself, making it feel unnatural and silly for a child to wear at a party. This prompts thoughts on how we define roles in society.
  3. Additionally, the lack of product reviews and availability adds to the overall strangeness. It leads to doubts about the costume's reality and the child's authenticity.

All on our own

Disaffected Newsletter • 399 implied HN points • 10 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Arts
  1. There was a time when people felt more connected and shared a common culture. It felt like things were simpler and more hopeful back then.
  2. People today often feel isolated and disconnected, being seen more as online personas rather than real individuals.
  3. For those feeling alone now, there's a recognition that it's okay to walk that path and share in that experience.