The hottest Character development Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Literature Topics

The Cooperatives: The struggle

storyvoyager • 4 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
⚔ Fiction Climate fiction Science fiction Literary Fiction Character development
  1. The story explores the complex relationship between an AI character called the Ghost and a human girl named Shia, highlighting themes of trust and loyalty.
  2. It reflects on the challenges of living in a world affected by climate change and the struggle for survival among its characters.
  3. The narrative poses questions about free will and the influence of programming on decision-making, especially in the context of AI and human interactions.

A Review of Neil Gaiman's "Norse Mythology"

Norse Mythology & Germanic Lore • 59 implied HN points • 05 Dec 23
📚 Literature Mythology Review Narrative Character development
  1. Neil Gaiman's 'Norse Mythology' book modernizes ancient Norse myths, making them more accessible and entertaining for readers.
  2. Gaiman's storytelling enhances character dynamics and adds personalities that are more engaging, although he takes creative liberties and introduces invented details.
  3. Readers should be cautious as 'Norse Mythology' may contain inaccuracies and omissions, and it is advisable to supplement with original source texts for a more accurate understanding.

Book Review: Almost Nowhere

Record Crash • 78 implied HN points • 08 Sep 23
📚 Literature Sci-fi Character development
  1. Almost Nowhere is a complex but original sci-fi story with a lot of content to unpack.
  2. The characters in the story are well-developed and engaging, with various personalities and interactions.
  3. The detailed explanations of fake physics and complex concepts could be a bit long, but add depth to the narrative.

Toniann Fernandez & Z. Xalmoa: Ubícate

Do Not Research • 59 implied HN points • 21 Jun 23
📚 Literature Short Story Fiction Narrative Character development
  1. Yoni seemed persistent in his questioning, which created tension and intrigue during the interaction with the sea urchin.
  2. The dynamics of the characters, like Oli, Yoni, and the narrator, added depth and complexity to the storytelling.
  3. The story conveyed a sense of mystery and surrealism, with elements like simulations, unexpected actions, and intense emotions.
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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.

Me Gustas Tu

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 18 Jun 23
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Narrative Character development Creative Writing
  1. Friendships can be deep and meaningful, even when they start in surprising places like a hostel. The connection shared between friends can make life feel rich and exciting.
  2. Romantic feelings can be messy and confusing, especially when they involve friends. It's common to navigate awkward moments and unspoken feelings during relationships.
  3. Life paths can change unexpectedly, and it's okay to feel lost at times. Relationships and experiences can lead to personal growth, even when things don't go as planned.

Rome Retreat ANNOUNCEMENT; Also, John Adams, Extreme Ownership, VC takeaways

ancientlifecoach • 39 implied HN points • 03 Mar 23
🚌 Education Leadership Character development Retreat History
  1. Leaders should take Extreme Ownership, where they are responsible for the success or failure of a mission.
  2. Good leaders focus on discerning the right character traits in individuals for their team.
  3. Invest time in training and developing character, whether through biographies or specialized events like retreats.

Gentlemen Prefer Bitches

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 06 Dec 22
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Character development Relationships Narrative Techniques
  1. Some men are attracted to women who seem strong and assertive, but this can lead to unhealthy relationships where they overlook their own needs.
  2. Friendship and support can help people recognize their worth and encourage them to make positive changes in their lives.
  3. Being honest and having clear expectations in relationships is important to prevent one person from feeling like a burden or a freeloader.

The Getting To Know You Phase

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 05 Sep 22
📚 Literature Fiction Narrative Relationships Emotion Character development
  1. Relationships can start off exciting and full of charm but might later face challenges. It's important to keep the connection alive and not let things get stuck in a routine.
  2. Getting to know someone deeply takes time and can reveal difficult histories. Sharing personal stories helps build understanding, but it can also change the tone of the relationship.
  3. Mental health issues can impact relationships in complex ways. It's essential to be open, supportive, and honest about how these challenges affect each other.

Girl Talk

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 16 Jan 23
📚 Literature Short Stories Fiction Narrative Contemporary Character development
  1. Relationships can be complicated, especially when it comes to comparing partners and feeling imbalanced. Both partners need to feel valued and respected for the relationship to work.
  2. Moving on from a tough relationship can feel freeing and open up new opportunities. It's possible to enjoy independence and even find success after a breakup.
  3. It's natural to wonder about past relationships, but sometimes transparency doesn't lead to understanding. Open dialogue is important, but not always easy.

Brothers in Arms

Castalia • 39 implied HN points • 15 May 23
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Narrative Character development Writing Style
  1. The story shows the challenges of young people trying to make a difference through political campaigns. It highlights the hard work and dedication involved, often mixed with feelings of loneliness and uncertainty.
  2. Music plays a huge role in the character's life, providing comfort and connection during stressful times. The main character finds solace in songs that evoke deep emotions and memories.
  3. Friendship evolves in unexpected ways, blurring lines between closeness and romance. The relationship between the main character and Pak highlights the complexities of connection in a chaotic environment.

The Getting To Know You Phase

Castalia • 39 implied HN points • 26 Feb 23
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Relationships Narrative Character development
  1. Eric struggles with being single after a series of relationships, feeling lonely and stuck in a routine. He finds excitement in dating again but worries about his future.
  2. His relationship with Elizabeth starts strong, filled with charm and deep conversations, but as they get closer, they uncover difficult pasts that challenge their bond.
  3. The dynamic shifts when Elizabeth reveals her mental health struggles, which Eric tries to understand, but ultimately leads to their breakup and Eric facing the reality of being alone again.

"A Thousand Reflections of My Own Hands in a Dark Mirror"

Apposition • 19 implied HN points • 01 Apr 23
📚 Literature Short Stories Feminism Character development Cultural Identity Satire
  1. Katherine Mansfield's stories focus on capturing moods and character depths rather than plot
  2. Mansfield's stories in 'In a German Pension' depict women longing for security despite facing disillusionment with men
  3. The satirical tone and complex characters in Mansfield's stories reveal subtle hints of psychic instability and a preference for implication over action

An Actor Prepares

Castalia • 39 implied HN points • 28 Dec 22
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Drama Narrative Character development
  1. The main character finds joy in observing people on the subway, using it as a way to escape the chaos of city life. He enjoys mimicking others and feels free while doing it.
  2. The character's interactions with his roommates show a mix of support and tension as they navigate their artistic aspirations and daily lives. Their relationships become complicated with secrets and misunderstandings.
  3. As the character prepares for a significant acting role, he undergoes a transformation that blurs the lines between his real self and his on-stage persona, leading to a new sense of identity.

The Seducer

Castalia • 19 implied HN points • 03 Jun 23
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Narrative Character development Relationships
  1. People's perceptions of you can change over time. The main character felt invisible for years but then suddenly attracted attention, which he couldn't explain.
  2. Relationships can be complicated. The main character had an enjoyable connection with Rachel, but their differing expectations led to misunderstandings.
  3. Sometimes, we take others for granted. The main character realized he may have treated Rachel like just another option rather than valuing her as a person.

The Trip To New York

Castalia • 19 implied HN points • 05 Apr 23
📚 Literature Short Stories Fiction Narrative Character development Relationships
  1. Relationships can change over time, and sometimes they just fade without a clear reason. Carl's experience shows that love can end even if there isn't a specific cause.
  2. People often have different ideas about love and commitment. Mariana expresses a belief that relationships shouldn't be managed like a business, revealing how personal views on love can differ.
  3. Moving on from a breakup can be tough, but it's important to not let it stop you from living your life. Carl chooses to enjoy his trip to New York despite the heartbreak.

The Web of Story

David Friedman’s Substack • 8 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
📚 Literature Character development Narrative structure
  1. Discovering and enjoying stories on Glowfic involves finding favorite authors and completed threads.
  2. The stories on Glowfic present different versions of the same plotline, showcasing characters in varying roles and circumstances.
  3. Glowfic narratives offer a unique web of interconnected stories, created collaboratively by multiple authors inspired by role-playing games.

Lessons in narrative compassion

The Leftovers • 19 implied HN points • 07 Jan 22
📚 Literature Short Stories Narrative Techniques Character development Influences Writing Style
  1. The book 'Dance Move' by Wendy Erskine uses third person narration, creating a detached, observer-like perspective that allows the stories to almost tell themselves.
  2. The stories in 'Dance Move' predominantly take place in intimate interior spaces like kitchens and living rooms, focusing on the everyday joys and sorrows of characters, rather than grand events.
  3. Wendy Erskine's writing style, influenced by authors like Chekhov, shows a compassionate approach to storytelling that prioritizes character depth and authenticity over sensationalism.

"What Ifs" and Third Rails

A Particular Weird • 11 implied HN points • 12 Jun 23
📚 Literature Writing Genres Character development Storytelling Emotions
  1. Lisa Cron's book 'Story Genius' helps authors understand the importance of a character's 'third rail' and emotional journey in crafting a compelling story.
  2. John Truby's 'The Anatomy of Genres' complements Cron's approach by showcasing how genres revolve around core thematic questions, providing a reliable starting point for writers.
  3. Crafting a riveting story involves determining the message, creating impactful characters, and outlining plot points that force characters to confront their past.

Bodies Bodies [12c]

The Author Is Dumb • 0 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
⚔ Fiction Literature Creative Writing Storytelling Narrative Character development
  1. David feels out of place at the dinner, especially when Anna shines in social situations. While he struggles to connect with others, he admires Anna's charisma and intellect.
  2. The conversation at the table turns to deep topics about the nature of reality, with some guests speculating about higher dimensions. It's clear that David thinks a lot of this talk is just confusing noise.
  3. After drinking too much, David ends up sick in the bathroom, feeling embarrassed and vulnerable. Anna comes to check on him, reminding him of their younger days and showing she cares.

Face writing

Rik’s Sparky Little Substack Space • 0 implied HN points • 21 May 24
📚 Literature Writing Character development
  1. Facing challenges like face blindness can lead to unique perspectives and qualities like being a good listener, which can benefit interactions with others.
  2. Seeing the world differently, as in the case of prosopagnosia, can bring fresh and unexpected elements into writing, making it more engaging and thought-provoking for readers.
  3. Describing characters effectively in writing is crucial for reader engagement, even though the author's personal struggles, like recognizing faces, can present obstacles in this process.

Harnessing Moral Ambiguity in Fiction (and Elsewhere)

Homo Ludens • 0 implied HN points • 04 May 24
📚 Literature Fiction Character development Language
  1. Moral ambiguity is a key aspect in fiction and our modern society, challenging traditional concepts of good and bad.
  2. World-building, character development, and narrative tension are essential tools to effectively harness moral ambiguity in storytelling.
  3. Incorporating language, research, and authentic details can enhance the portrayal of moral ambiguity in narratives, drawing inspiration from various forms of media.

The Scarlet D Book Review

cruiseandpaul • 0 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Romance Character development
  1. The Scarlet D is about a woman named Scarlet who rebuilds her life after divorce, showing that it's possible to start over at any age.
  2. Scarlet joins a book club for divorced women, where she finds friendship and support while facing her past and discovering herself.
  3. The story explores unexpected love and the complexities of relationships, emphasizing that it's never too late for new beginnings.

The Scarlet D Book Review

cruiseandpaul • 0 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
📚 Literature Book review Fiction Romance Self-discovery Character development
  1. The Scarlet D tells the story of Scarlet, a woman starting fresh after a long marriage. It's about love, self-discovery, and finding hope in new beginnings.
  2. The book highlights the importance of community through Scarlet's experience in a divorced women's book club. The friendships formed help her face her past and grow.
  3. Scarlet's romantic journey includes surprises, like meeting a younger man and an age-appropriate suitor. This shows that love can come in unexpected ways at any age.

Bodies Bodies [12a]

The Author Is Dumb • 0 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
⚔ Fiction Narrative Character development Dialogue Atmosphere
  1. David feels awkward at social events and often finds himself trying to support Anna while she mingles. He'd rather avoid small talk and just go home.
  2. Alvin is developing a project that predicts future events using technology, which David finds hard to accept or believe. This creates tension between them.
  3. Anna is well-liked and confident, able to navigate social situations effortlessly while David struggles with his feelings of inadequacy and frustration.