The hottest Authors Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Literature Topics

"The Perfect Writing Space"

Unmapped Storylands with Elif Shafak • 10237 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Inspiration Authors Creativity Personal narrative
  1. You don't need a fancy or big space to write. Even a small, cozy place can be inspiring and productive.
  2. What really matters for writing is having peace of mind and a sense of freedom. It's about your inner space more than your outer space.
  3. Everyone has their own way to get inspired. Music can be a powerful tool to help focus and create.

Writing While Needed By Others

Writerly Things with Brooke Warner • 2400 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Authors Memoir Creativity Self-reflection
  1. It's hard to write when you feel like others need you all the time. Some writers find they need to physically separate themselves from distractions to focus.
  2. Writers, especially women and moms, often feel guilty for taking time for themselves to write. It's important to remind ourselves that our creative pursuits are valuable too.
  3. There are strategies to combat feelings of selfishness and guilt when prioritizing writing. Finding what works for you can help make writing a regular part of your life.

Stephen King's 'Creepiest' Short Story

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 198 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Horror Short Stories Authors Narrative
  1. "The Raft" is a short story by Stephen King that tells about four friends who go swimming and end up trapped on a raft with a dangerous creature below them.
  2. The characters have typical young adult problems like love and jealousy, making their doom even more relatable and scary.
  3. The story is not just about the creature, but it's also about the darker sides of human nature lurking beneath the surface.

On What Makes a Good Writer with Kevin Wilson

The Sub Club Newsletter • 1110 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Authors Publishing Community Education
  1. Finding a supportive community can really help a writer feel like their work matters. Connecting with others can make the writing journey feel a lot less lonely.
  2. Writing is both a personal and technical craft. It's important to enjoy the process and be open to learning, rather than getting too caught up in formal success markers.
  3. Art should be valued beyond just monetary success. Writers can thrive by focusing on what they love to create, regardless of whether they achieve fame or fortune.
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Call for Subscriber Writing, February 2025

Freddie deBoer • 959 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Readers Authors Blogs
  1. There's a call for writing submissions from subscribers to share their work with a large audience. It's a great chance for writers to get noticed.
  2. You need to use a specific Google Form to submit your work by the deadline. Make sure to follow the instructions to avoid missing out.
  3. This is only for written pieces, like blog posts or articles, not for promoting podcasts or social media. So focus on sharing your writing!

The Performance of Pride

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 85 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Novels Authors Narrative Themes
  1. Shuggie Bain learns to dance as a way to escape his tough life, but he still feels the pressure of others watching him. His mother encourages him to keep dancing despite the difficulties.
  2. The novel highlights how appearances can hide deeper sorrows, like Shuggie's mother trying to maintain a sense of pride even in hard times. It's about how people present themselves to the world, even when they are struggling inside.
  3. Shuggie feels different and vulnerable due to his sexuality and difficult home life. The story shows how environments can trap people, making it hard to break free from poverty and pain.

The Anticlimax of Becoming an Author

Writerly Things with Brooke Warner • 2261 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Books Authors Creativity
  1. Becoming an author can feel like a big letdown after the excitement of publication. The rush of attention fades, and new authors often feel disappointed.
  2. It's normal to have mixed feelings after publishing. Authors may feel exposed, especially if they've shared personal stories, which can lead to vulnerability and sadness.
  3. After publication, it's helpful to focus on future projects and give yourself time to adjust. Good things can come later, like new readers or opportunities, so try to enjoy the journey.

Have you ugly cried this week? I hope so. (Plus: my thoughts on Taylor Swift's book.)

How to Glow in the Dark • 679 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
📚 Literature Publishing Self-Publishing Authors Books Celebrity
  1. It's okay to feel your emotions deeply; sometimes crying is part of processing those feelings.
  2. Taylor Swift's upcoming self-published book is shaking up the publishing industry by bypassing traditional methods.
  3. This move could encourage traditional publishers to rethink their strategies and invest in diverse authors instead of focusing only on mega-celebrities.

Sub Club Weekly Digest # 4

The Sub Club Newsletter • 495 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Editing Submissions Authors
  1. They are looking for a new name for a column called 'Story Doctors' and want public input to find a better title. People can suggest lots of names and even win a prize if theirs is chosen.
  2. This week, they shared several articles about literary agents, submission calls, and indie presses that are gaining attention. These articles can help writers connect with new opportunities in publishing.
  3. They are hosting casual online events called 'Fuck it, Submit!' where people can ask questions about submitting their work. It's a fun way to get support while trying to publish your writing.

Sophie from Romania - Publication Day!

Rory’s Always On Newsletter • 1230 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
📚 Literature Books Authors Publishing Memoir Pets
  1. Publication day is a big deal for authors, filled with emotions and hard work. It's exciting to finally share your story after so much time spent writing and editing.
  2. The journey of adopting a rescue dog can be challenging, but it often comes with rewarding moments. The author learned a lot about their dog, Sophie, and shared her growth from being scared to becoming more confident.
  3. Community support is crucial for both authors and pet owners. People love to share their own rescue stories, and this connection makes the experience even more special.

"Something is terribly broken in publishing right now"

How to Glow in the Dark • 979 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
📚 Literature Publishing Writing Authors
  1. The publishing industry is very frustrating for authors and agents, with many feeling lost in the process. It can feel like nothing is ever certain and that impact on mental health is significant.
  2. Finding an agent and getting a traditional book deal is becoming increasingly difficult. Many authors hope for clarity, but it often feels elusive.
  3. There is a call for more kindness and empathy within the industry. Everyone struggles with their own challenges, and a supportive community can make a big difference.

Donkey work

Austin Kleon • 6154 implied HN points • 09 Aug 24
📚 Literature Writing Reading Books Authors Creativity
  1. Writing can feel like hard work, but it's satisfying when a piece takes on a life of its own. Those moments when creativity flows can make all the effort worth it.
  2. Many writers find joy in finishing something rather than the writing process itself. It can take a long time to feel that payoff, but it's really rewarding when you finally do.
  3. Being in between drafts can be a peaceful time for a writer. It's a chance to relax without worrying about the next steps until the next draft comes back.

Reading Jane Austen

The Common Reader • 3295 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
📚 Literature Classic Novels Authors Literary Analysis Cultural criticism
  1. Forget about movie and TV adaptations of Jane Austen's work. Reading the novels without visual influences helps you understand them better.
  2. Austen's writing is clever and rich in irony, which can be lost in adaptations. Her unique narrative style can't be captured on screen, and that's part of what makes her books special.
  3. Many people come to appreciate Austen only after initially disliking her work. It's worth giving her novels a second chance as opinions can change with new perspectives.

The Monday Media Diet with Emanuel Derman

Why is this interesting? • 723 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
📚 Literature Books Authors Reading Memoir Critique
  1. Emanuel Derman has had a diverse career, changing paths from theoretical physics to finance and teaching, showing how one can blend different interests into a fulfilling life.
  2. He prefers reading over other media like podcasts, which reflects a desire for control over his pace. His media diet includes mainstream newspapers, literary journals, and financial newsletters, focusing on written content.
  3. Derman highlights the importance of poetry and fiction in his reading, and emphasizes a personal connection to understanding his roots through his writing.

Art in the Age of Slop

Counter Craft • 2332 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Publishing Authors Plagiarism Trends
  1. There's a rise in formulaic and generic content in art, like books and social media, as creators chase trends instead of focusing on originality. This 'slop' culture is influenced by algorithms that favor imitation over creativity.
  2. Even popular novels can suffer from issues like plagiarism, especially in fast-paced publishing environments where multiple people contribute to the writing. This raises questions about the integrity and originality of the work produced.
  3. Despite the challenges, creating original work is still worthwhile. Unique and thoughtful art can resonate with audiences looking for something different, and it allows creators to express their true selves rather than just following the crowd.

A Luminous, Brave, and Unputdownable Article about Blurbs

Counter Craft • 470 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
📚 Literature Publishing Books Writing Authors Criticism
  1. Blurbs, or quotes of praise on book covers, are often seen as necessary but can be annoying to writers and readers alike. They take up a lot of time and often sound overly exaggerated.
  2. While blurbs can be helpful in promoting books, especially for authors who are just starting out, there's a growing conversation about their relevance. Some believe they may not be needed at all as readers can judge books on their own.
  3. To make blurbing better, suggestions include limiting the number of blurbs per book, avoiding requests for manuscripts that haven't sold yet, and stopping requests from already successful authors, letting newer voices shine instead.

Always have a book with you

Austin Kleon • 3197 implied HN points • 06 Aug 24
📚 Literature Reading Books Writing Authors Literary culture
  1. Always carry a book with you. Keeping a book on hand helps you use spare moments for reading instead of reaching for your phone.
  2. Read multiple books at once. Mixing up your reading can create interesting connections between different ideas.
  3. Leave books in various spots around your home. This way, you'll find opportunities to pick one up and read a bit whenever you see it.

An Unusual Bonus Friday Post

Story Club with George Saunders • 253 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Essays Writing Authors Critique
  1. Keeping politics out of discussions is important, but sometimes it's necessary to address serious issues affecting governance and society.
  2. It's essential to remember the values of kindness and support for the less fortunate, especially during challenging times.
  3. Staying engaged and critical while maintaining a sense of humor can help us deal with difficult situations and keep hope alive for a better future.

The Monday Media Diet with David McCloskey

Why is this interesting? • 723 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Book Reviews Authors Writing Reading
  1. David McCloskey is a former CIA analyst who became a spy novelist. His experiences give depth to his fiction writing.
  2. He prefers reading books over watching TV news and enjoys exploring various topics, especially through literature.
  3. McCloskey recommends reading older spy novels, particularly by Charles McCarry, for a better understanding of the genre.

J.R.R. Tolkien the poet in search of lost time.

The Common Reader • 1736 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Books Authors Literary Analysis Cultural Studies
  1. J.R.R. Tolkien's poetry often explores the theme of lost time, reflecting on beauty and grief during the First World War.
  2. Despite being a poet with unique style, Tolkien's work shows connections to his contemporaries and the literary trends of his time.
  3. The recent collection of his poems is a valuable insight into his development as a writer and offers interesting historical context.

The Monday Media Diet with Crispin Burke

Why is this interesting? • 904 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
📚 Literature Books Authors Reading Media Culture
  1. Consuming a lot of media is essential for staying informed. Many people start their day by checking multiple news sites and apps.
  2. Reading physical books with highlighters can enhance memory and engagement compared to digital reading. People often find physical interaction with print books more satisfying.
  3. Exploring unique travel destinations can be rewarding. Places like Hood River, Oregon, offer great food, hiking, and easy access to different climates.

Yikes, a Heartfelt Abject Apology

Story Club with George Saunders • 67 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Authors Writing Literary Events
  1. Mistakes can happen, and it's important to acknowledge them honestly. George was tricked by incorrect information about someone else's well-being.
  2. Offering a heartfelt apology helps to clear the air and show care for others. George expressed his genuine regret for jumping to conclusions.
  3. It's always good to double-check information before spreading it. This situation reminds us to be careful about what we share.

Book Offer

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 65 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
📚 Literature Books Writing Authors Publishing Narratives
  1. There are physical copies of the book 'No Apologies' on sale for half off. It's a good chance to grab a deal!
  2. The book discusses how people face silencing and punishment for their opinions. It encourages everyone to find their voice and speak up.
  3. Silence can have serious downsides. Speaking out helps build real connections and allows for open discussions, which can change minds.

Help!—AI Is Stealing My Readers

The Honest Broker • 21443 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
🕹 Technology AI Scams Chatbots Authors Transparency
  1. Impersonation scams are evolving, with AI being used to create fake authors and books to mislead readers.
  2. Demand for transparency in AI usage can help prevent scams and maintain integrity in content creation.
  3. Experts are vulnerable to having their hard-earned knowledge and work exploited by AI, highlighting the need for regulations to protect against such misuse.

"Is the Sky Ever Green?"

Story Club with George Saunders • 56 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Storytelling Authors Critique
  1. Writing well isn’t just about following rules; it often involves a natural talent that can’t be forced. Sometimes inspiration comes unexpectedly, like catching a fish out of nowhere.
  2. Specificity in writing helps create a vivid picture, but it can also be useful to think about how your reader reacts to each line as they read. This helps you create a more engaging experience.
  3. Colors in prose can surprise readers and enhance the story. Using unique colors can make readers pause and think, which draws them deeper into the imaginary world.

Almost everything I've written seems wrong now

Sasha's 'Newsletter' • 2302 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
📚 Literature Writing Authors Personal Reflection Creative Process Expression
  1. Many writers feel that their past work no longer reflects their current ideas. They might find their old writing overly simplistic or disagreeable.
  2. Personal growth and changing beliefs make it hard to reconcile old writing with new thoughts. It's challenging to explain complex ideas that now contradict previous statements.
  3. Instead of worrying about regrets or how future readers will judge them, writers find peace in seeing their work as an offering. They hope that readers will learn and grow from both the mistakes and successes in their writing.

The Heteronym Edition

Why is this interesting? • 904 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Authors
  1. Heteronyms are creative identities that authors use to express different voices, separate from their real selves. This can add depth and variety to literature, allowing for unique perspectives.
  2. Augusto Monterroso created a fictional translator named Eduardo Torres, who never existed, to showcase the art of heteronyms. He used this persona to publish works that read like they were from a real author.
  3. The concept of heteronyms reminds us that everyone has different sides to their personality. As we grow, we create versions of ourselves that reflect our changes over time.

Unstylish style in Vanity Fair.

The Common Reader • 956 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
📚 Literature Prose Writing Style Criticism Authors
  1. There is a difference between 'style' and 'stylish'. Style is about how someone expresses themselves, while stylish means following trends or being fashionable.
  2. William Shakespeare, for example, has a diverse range of styles but isn't necessarily considered stylish because he doesn't conform to any one fashionable way of writing.
  3. Modern writers are often seen as stylish because they write in a polished manner, but not all styles, even if they are complex or intricate, are considered stylish.

Prophesy's lullaby

Patti Smith • 7527 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
📚 Literature Books Authors Reading Biographies
  1. Patti Smith shares her daily activities and wishes readers a good night.
  2. She prepared cod, purple sweet potatoes, and micro greens for the evening meal.
  3. Patti Smith's publication is reader-supported, and readers can subscribe to support her work.

Open Thread 362

Astral Codex Ten • 3303 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
📚 Literature Writing Books Authors Reviews Essays
  1. This is a space for open discussions where you can share anything or ask questions. It's great for connecting with others about various topics.
  2. Jimmy Carter, the former president, has passed away, and there was a biography about him that many people found interesting.
  3. Happy New Year to everyone! Regular updates and posts will be coming back soon.

Unbelievable! How She Secured Her Dream Book Deal (and Went From Unemployed to Published by Penguin)

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 1498 implied HN points • 23 Jun 24
📚 Literature Authors Publishing Writing Self-Publishing
  1. Veronica Llorca-Smith, who started writing seriously just two years ago, became a published author with Penguin Random House after self-publishing her first book.
  2. She published four books in one year, including bestsellers, by focusing on consistent writing and utilizing different platforms for marketing.
  3. Veronica cleverly pitched her book idea to Penguin after researching their needs, showing that taking initiative and being strategic can lead to success.

A Substack is a book’s best friend: An interview with Luke Burgis

read • 10456 implied HN points • 28 Apr 23
💼 Business Marketing Engagement Authors Collaborations
  1. A Substack can be a powerful tool for writers to engage with readers and promote their books.
  2. Substack allows for direct connection with committed readers and can significantly impact book sales.
  3. Starting a Substack can help writers build a community, get feedback, and continue engaging with readers even after the publication of a book.

Open Thread Because Book

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 62 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
📚 Literature Books Writing Publishing Authors Reviews
  1. The author is working on a German translation of their book about pandemicism, which is overdue. They are trying to balance writing and keeping up with posting but have found it challenging.
  2. Maintaining a regular posting schedule while managing the translation work has proven to be too ambitious. The author recognizes this struggle and is aiming to finish the project soon.
  3. The text highlights the importance of managing expectations and deadlines when juggling multiple writing projects. It's okay to seek help or adjust plans when things get overwhelming.

An interview with Mary Ruefle

Austin Kleon • 3337 implied HN points • 26 Mar 24
📚 Literature Poetry Interviews Creative Writing Authors Book Reviews
  1. Mary Ruefle loves to create poetry by painting over old texts, which makes her work unique and interesting. It's a fun way for her to express creativity.
  2. She prefers to communicate through typewriter and postal mail instead of using technology like computers or Zoom. This shows her love for traditional methods.
  3. Ruefle believes in doing things simply because they are enjoyable, like her erasure poetry. This perspective encourages people to pursue what they love.

RKUL: Time Well Spent 1/1/2025

Razib Khan's Unsupervised Learning • 211 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
📚 Literature Books Authors Criticism Ideas Theory
  1. Books that challenge the norm can change how we think. Authors who present radical ideas might be dismissed but can spark new creativity.
  2. Parents often believe their choices greatly affect their children's outcomes, but many outcomes are influenced more by genetics and chance than parenting styles.
  3. Science evolves as new discoveries are made. Historical theories can be amazing, but modern techniques allow us to understand life in greater detail than ever before.