The hottest Authors Substack posts right now

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Facing the Abyss

lettersonbeing β€’ 216 implied HN points β€’ 14 May 23
πŸ“š Literature Poetry Authors Illustration
  1. The author shares a poem about uncharted territory and exploration.
  2. Consider becoming a paying subscriber to support the Letters on Being publication.
  3. The post also features recommendations like Abigail Ervin Penner's illustrations and a tribute to mothers.

The Novelist and the Fighter Pilot

Don't Save Anything β€’ 216 implied HN points β€’ 07 Apr 23
πŸ“š Literature Authors Novels Influences Writing Literary Analysis
  1. The writer James Salter and a man from the author's church were revealed to have known each other from their time serving as fighter pilots in the Korean War.
  2. Flight in the early 20th century transformed human perspective, influencing art and bringing a new aesthetic, like the discovery of perspective in drawing in the 15th century.
  3. The author reflects on the influence of Salter's work but also recognizes the importance of not idealizing an artist, appreciating the lessons drawn from different individuals, like Bob Boyd.

Genre Grapevine for November 2023

Genre Grapevine β€’ 157 implied HN points β€’ 01 Dec 23
πŸ“š Literature Authors Awards Opportunities Controversies Publications
  1. X-Twitter is facing backlash with many advertisers and users leaving, impacting prominent figures in the SF/F genre.
  2. Artificial intelligence may lead to a rise in mediocrity in creative works due to lack of true innovation.
  3. Success in writing is not limited by age, with examples of authors achieving recognition later in life.

The Relentlessness of R.A. Salvatore, the Anti-George R.R. Martin

Litverse β€’ 359 implied HN points β€’ 08 Nov 22
πŸ“š Literature Fantasy Authors Themes Characters Writing Style
  1. Different fantasy subgenres, like dark fantasy and high fantasy, offer contrasting themes and storytelling styles.
  2. R.A. Salvatore, known for high fantasy, values entertainment and accessibility in his work, showcasing the importance of catering to readers' enjoyment.
  3. Salvatore's focus on heroes winning and delivering joy through storytelling brings a refreshing perspective in a literary world often focused on darkness and complexity.

In Which, for the First Time...

Story Club with George Saunders β€’ 41 implied HN points β€’ 06 Oct 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Essays Reviews Analysis Authors
  1. The author discusses being inspired by reading 'The Street of Crocodiles' and how it moved them. It's a good idea to read different authors and see what we can learn from them.
  2. There was also a mention of an essay about Bruno Schulz that was appreciated by a reader. Sharing interesting articles can spark good conversations.
  3. The post seems to focus on literature and connecting with other readers. Engaging with a community around books can enhance our reading experience.
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Why Masques And Princes Are Red

Outlandish Claims β€’ 19 implied HN points β€’ 02 Jul 24
πŸ“š Literature Poetry Authors Interpretation Structure Symbolism
  1. Writers like Shakespeare and Poe had unique approaches to crafting their work, whether through adapting plots or utilizing structured methods like Poe's philosophy in writing.
  2. In 'The Tempest,' Prospero's play within the play reflects a self-aware narrative, hinting at the consequences of his actions and unintentional summoning of death.
  3. The number 108 holds significance in Poe's 'The Raven,' aligning with religious symbolism and mirroring the poem's structure, showcasing a mathematical poetic form derived in a deeper connection to spiritual themes.

Read at Whim!

Austin Kleon β€’ 979 implied HN points β€’ 22 Mar 22
πŸ“š Literature Reading Books Authors Literary Criticism Writing
  1. Reading should be fun and spontaneous, like following your mood. Don't feel pressured to read what others think is good.
  2. Don't feel guilty about your reading choices. Enjoy what makes you happy, even if it's considered a 'guilty pleasure.'
  3. It's important to reflect on your reading habits and think about how to improve them for the future. Make your reading life more enjoyable.

H is for Hakluyt

All Visible Objects β€’ 118 implied HN points β€’ 07 Jan 24
πŸ“š Literature Authors Analysis Translation Historical context Interpretation
  1. The opening of Moby-Dick references a quote by Hakluyt about the importance of the letter H in the word 'whale,' setting an enigmatic tone for the novel.
  2. Melville's use of the Hakluyt quote without full context led to speculation about its meaning, with scholars exploring poetic interpretations related to breath, spirit, and hidden truths within the text.
  3. Investigating the origins of the Hakluyt quote reveals connections to a chain of translations and criticisms between ArngrΓ­mur, MΓΌnster, and Hakluyt, shedding light on Melville's intellectual and literary choices.

The Mountains of the Moon

Cosmographia β€’ 259 implied HN points β€’ 10 Feb 23
πŸ“š Literature Poetry Authors Subscribers
  1. The post discusses 'The Mountains of the Moon', inspired by a quote from Edgar Allan Poe's 'Eldorado'
  2. The content is for paid subscribers only, with an option to subscribe or sign in provided
  3. The use of imagery and quotes adds depth and literary richness to the post

Scatterbrain: an autumn letter

The Leftovers β€’ 179 implied HN points β€’ 23 Oct 23
πŸ“š Literature Writing Authors Books Storytelling Fiction
  1. Starting a new passion or career path may not always lead to immediate success and can come with unexpected challenges.
  2. Having extra time available can be disorienting for individuals used to being constantly busy, raising questions about how time is best utilized.
  3. Public reactions to global events on social media can sometimes come across as performative, focusing on personal branding rather than genuine empathy.

What's Missing from AI Writing

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano β€’ 315 implied HN points β€’ 27 Oct 23
πŸ“š Literature Narration Perspective Fiction Authors
  1. Literature has evolved over time to focus more on individual perspectives rather than collective narratives.
  2. Great essays are distinguished by the unique perspective and voice of the writer, not just the subject matter.
  3. Effective writing, whether about architecture or any other topic, requires a distinct and engaging narrative voice to provide depth and connection for the reader.

Essay Club: Fragments From an Education by Christopher Hitchens

Mind & Mythos β€’ 99 implied HN points β€’ 27 Jan 24
πŸ“š Literature Essays Authors Literary Criticism Personal reflections Cultural Commentary
  1. Christopher Hitchens was a known writer and debater with strong opinions. He wasn't afraid to challenge the mainstream views of his time.
  2. In his essay, he shares personal reflections on education. He looks at how his life experiences shaped his understanding of learning.
  3. Hitchens combines humor and deep thoughts in his writing. His style makes even complex ideas easier for readers to grasp.

Copy and paste

gen yeet β€’ 176 implied HN points β€’ 14 Oct 23
πŸ“š Literature Criticism Poetry Authors Novels Writing
  1. Intertextuality explores the relationship between texts and their cultural environments.
  2. Writing can be seen as a collage, with language harvested and organized like pieces of a puzzle.
  3. Craft in writing can involve playful word experimentation and the incorporation of multiple voices.

26 books I picked up (and put down) this spring

Austin Kleon β€’ 719 implied HN points β€’ 21 Jun 22
πŸ“š Literature Books Reading Authors Memoirs Essays
  1. It's okay to start a book and not finish it; it's part of the reading journey. People often share books they've enjoyed, but sharing the ones they didn't finish can be just as valuable.
  2. Finding the right book at the right time can make all the difference. Sometimes a book resonates because of what's happening in life at that moment.
  3. Trying various books, even if they are put down, shows a willingness to explore new ideas and perspectives. Each book read (or not finished) adds to the overall reading experience.

An Unhinged History of American Publishing, episode 3.3: The Crown Publishing Group, or: Look At That Trash Panda Go 😭

How to Glow in the Dark β€’ 199 implied HN points β€’ 28 Sep 23
πŸ“š Literature Publishing Authors Reading Book Sales
  1. The Great Depression had a significant impact on the American publishing industry.
  2. During tough times, unconventional strategies and adapting to the audience's needs can lead to success.
  3. Observing consumer behavior and offering affordable options helped Crown Publishers thrive post-Depression.

Literary Precocity

Life and Letters β€’ 59 implied HN points β€’ 19 Mar 24
πŸ“š Literature Writing Authors Books History Cultural Studies
  1. Literary precocity refers to young writers who show exceptional talent early in life. Writers like Abraham Cowley became famous for publishing their work at a very young age.
  2. The concept of precocity emerged around the early 1600s, influenced by the rise of print publication. Printing made it easier to track when someone officially became an author.
  3. Before print, it was hard to define when a writer crossed into authorship. With printed books, age and publication date became clear, creating a clear distinction between different types of writers.

Turmoil and Hope

Notes from a Small Press β€’ 16 implied HN points β€’ 12 Nov 24
πŸ“š Literature Book Reviews Fiction Writing Authors Reading
  1. A new used bookstore opened nearby, which is exciting for book lovers. It's great to discover places that share our reading interests.
  2. I found two books by Meyer Levin at the bookstore, which felt like a special connection. Finding rare books can create a sense of kinship among readers.
  3. Supporting local bookstores is important for keeping the love of reading alive. These shops provide unique finds and foster community among fellow readers.

Book Review: On The Edge, Nate Silver

Matt’s Five Points β€’ 8 HN points β€’ 02 Aug 24
πŸ“š Literature Book Reviews Authors Literary Analysis Society Cultural Commentary
  1. Nate Silver's new book talks about people who think differently about risk. Some see it as something to avoid, while others embrace it and try to win big, especially in areas like gambling and tech.
  2. The book highlights two groups: the 'Riverians,' who love taking risks and making calculated bets, and the 'Villagers,' who prefer safe choices and stability. These different mindsets clash in various fields like politics and business.
  3. Silver also raises concerns about how risk-taking can lead to serious problems, especially with things like AI development. He asks if focusing too much on maximizing expected value might overlook important human issues.

Channeling Gore Vidal in a James Bond Book

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger β€’ 40 implied HN points β€’ 27 Dec 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Writing Criticism Books Authors
  1. The book 'Forever and a Day' has exciting scenes that build tension and keep the reader engaged, including moments where the characters share their backstories.
  2. The story provides a unique perspective on World War II, suggesting a critical view of American involvement and its consequences.
  3. The author, Anthony Horowitz, weaves in political commentary, showing how fictional characters can reflect real-world issues and beliefs.

EXTRACTS: Final Jeopardy!

All Visible Objects β€’ 79 implied HN points β€’ 04 Feb 24
πŸ“š Literature Authors Books Fiction Quotes Narrative
  1. Jeopardy questions about Herman Melville and Moby-Dick can be quite challenging and sometimes misleading, requiring in-depth knowledge of the book.
  2. Jeopardy has made factual errors about Melville and Moby-Dick, including incorrectly identifying the port the Pequod sails from and mixing up dates from the novel.
  3. Some Jeopardy clues have questionable or confusing phrasing when referencing Melville's quotes, life events, and genealogy, requiring a careful understanding to navigate.

April Update

Shades of Greaves β€’ 157 implied HN points β€’ 20 Apr 23
πŸ“š Literature Humor Publishing Authors Books Writing
  1. The author finished writing a book and is now preparing for proofreading and printing, with an option for pre-ordering.
  2. The author highlights the importance of supporting Black women athletes and shares recent writing on the topic of criticisms in sports.
  3. The newsletter includes a fun and humorous quiz comparing Thomas Pynchon novels to 90's R&B groups, showcasing light-hearted content.

Art Perpetually Imitating A Simulacrum Diminishes Art

Holodoxa β€’ 99 implied HN points β€’ 29 Dec 23
πŸ“š Literature Novels Authors Internet culture Literary Criticism
  1. The race to write the ultimate internet novel may not yield groundbreaking insights, as the questions it poses may already have answers.
  2. The surge in literature focused on technology and its impacts on society comes with a risk of becoming repetitive or overly on-the-nose with its political messages.
  3. Literary fiction should strive to maintain a focus on human experience and not get lost in the distractions of technology, ensuring that it continues to offer a space for genuine connection and exploration of complex emotions.

I Wrote a Book

The Reclamation Era β€’ 79 implied HN points β€’ 31 Jan 24
πŸ“š Literature Books Writing Authors Publishing Narrative
  1. The author finished writing a book after many months of hard work and revisions, organizing her thoughts and ideas like puzzle pieces.
  2. She felt a strong emotional connection to her late friend while writing, which motivated her to complete the book.
  3. The final manuscript turned out to be 191 pages long, which has special significance to her as it's her lucky number.

The most common red flags I see in nonfiction book proposals by otherwise qualified authors

How to Glow in the Dark β€’ 359 implied HN points β€’ 20 Mar 23
πŸ“š Literature Nonfiction Authors Emotional Intelligence Writing
  1. The most common red flags in nonfiction book proposals by qualified authors indicate focusing on personal needs over audience.
  2. Fixing editorial problems at a higher level requires deep introspection and addressing emotional barriers.
  3. Recognizing signs like lack of emotional connection in book proposals may signal the need for emotional growth and self-understanding.

An Unhinged History of American Publishing, Episode 3.2: The Knopf/Doubleday Publishing Group, or: Olympus Unbuttoned

How to Glow in the Dark β€’ 179 implied HN points β€’ 18 Sep 23
πŸ“š Literature History Publishing Authors Fiction
  1. Developing characters in writing by giving them a want and a need makes them interesting and integral to the plot.
  2. Personal experiences and real-life inspirations can shape fictional character arcs and storylines.
  3. Having a clear vision and partnership can drive success, but challenges and expectations may not always align as planned.

January Bookclub reveal

The Shift With Sam Baker β€’ 99 implied HN points β€’ 16 Dec 23
πŸ“š Literature Bookclub Books Authors
  1. The Shift With Sam Baker's January Bookclub pick is 'One of the Good Guys' by Araminta Hall, recommended for those tired of formulaic thrillers.
  2. The book has received praise from authors like Gillian Flynn and Lisa Taddeo, known for their groundbreaking works like 'Gone Girl' and 'Three Women'.
  3. Consider subscribing to The Shift With Sam Baker for more book recommendations and support for the publication.

Special Edition: John and Paul

The Ruffian β€’ 233 implied HN points β€’ 07 Nov 23
πŸ“š Literature Books Authors Music
  1. The author is writing a book about John and Paul from The Beatles, with insights that appeal to both fans and newcomers.
  2. Paid subscribers of The Ruffian will receive exclusive content related to the upcoming book in 2024.
  3. Those with a Founding Member/God Tier subscription may receive a signed copy of the book pre-publication.

Are Small Books The Future? | #256

Boundless by Paul Millerd β€’ 150 implied HN points β€’ 10 Feb 24
πŸ“š Literature Books Writing Podcasts Authors Reading
  1. Writing shorter books can be a hidden market with high reader satisfaction as people tend to recommend books they finish.
  2. Experimenting with different ways to package writing and breaking traditional book length norms can lead to new perspectives on what a book can be.
  3. Launching a podcast series interviewing diverse individuals about their work challenges and offering free coaching sessions can be engaging and informative.

A Tale of Yachts and Yacht-Nots

Litverse β€’ 139 implied HN points β€’ 26 Aug 23
πŸ“š Literature Authors Novels Themes Critique Historical context
  1. The writing in Hemingway's 'To Have and To Have Not' showcases a deep exploration of characters' actions over their feelings, with strong themes of desperation and survival.
  2. The novel delves into the moral ambiguity of characters like Harry Morgan, who navigates ethical dilemmas in a harsh and unforgiving world, where decisions are made in the moment without much thought for consequences.
  3. Hemingway's work from his pre-World War II era, like 'To Have and To Have Not,' highlights a shift towards vulnerability and social commentary, reflecting his evolving perspective on human nature and societal injustices.