The hottest Comics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Culture Topics

The Dilbert Afterlife

Astral Codex Ten • 135037 implied HN points • 16 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Smart people often feel trapped in systems that reward social posturing over competence, and that frustration fuels a lot of workplace humor and bitterness.
  2. Trying to escape a narrow success by branching into business, spiritual theories, or self-help can backfire when ambition outpaces real skill, turning self-awareness into self-deception.
  3. Charisma, marketing, and repetition often beat logic in public life, creating powerful followings and sudden rises but also exposing people to sharp backlash and collapse.

My Friend Doherty

Bet On It • 402 implied HN points • 16 Mar 26
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Brian Doherty was a prolific, deeply knowledgeable polymath and journalist who wrote influential books on the modern libertarian movement, Burning Man, and Ron Paul.
  2. He was a generous mentor and friend who connected people, shared deep cultural knowledge (especially about comics and music), and kept wide, eclectic social circles.
  3. His death was sudden and tragic, likely linked to prior health issues, and it left strong, fond memories and a lasting impact on those who knew him.

Highlights From The Comments On Scott Adams

Astral Codex Ten • 19959 implied HN points • 21 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Publishing a mixed memorial right after someone's death can be justified if it honestly balances praise and criticism; readers were divided but many accepted the tone and noted the subject had positively influenced others.
  2. Readers pushed back on factual and tonal points and prompted corrections—he wasn’t an ivermectin true believer, the phrase about “lesser humans” was unfair, and his podcast reached and helped more people than initially claimed.
  3. His persuasion work and race-related remarks generated intense debate: some praised his practical advice and reframes, while others condemned his racial comments and exaggerations as harmful, even if outright cancellation wasn’t universally supported.

The comfort of drawing Batman

Austin Kleon • 2018 implied HN points • 20 Aug 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Comics
  1. Drawing can be a comforting activity, especially during times of boredom or stress. For some, like the author, drawing familiar characters like Batman brings joy.
  2. Airplane mode can enhance productivity because it eliminates distractions. This can turn a flight into a great opportunity to focus and create.
  3. Comfort work is any creative task you do when you don't know what else to tackle. It's nice to have simple activities, like drawing, to fall back on.

Coleman Hughes: Scott Adams Made Me a Better Thinker

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3157 implied HN points • 14 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Reducing a public figure to their most controversial statements misses the broader lessons they offered about persuasion and communication.
  2. Bold, simplistic claims can be an intentional persuasive tactic because they provoke attention and emotional reactions that reinforce support, even if they’re technically wrong.
  3. Seeing political messages through a persuasion lens helps you think more clearly by focusing on motives, effects, and how audiences react instead of taking words literally.
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21st century books with pictures

Austin Kleon • 3457 implied HN points • 16 Jul 24
📚 Literature Comics
  1. Graphic novels are becoming a popular and important form of literature in the 21st century. They combine pictures and stories in a unique way.
  2. Books with illustrations can be just as impactful as traditional novels and can stretch the boundaries of what a book can be. Many authors are blending text and visuals creatively.
  3. Lists of the best books often spark discussions and differing opinions. People appreciate sharing their favorites and what they feel might have been overlooked.

Immigrant memoir comics!

Noahpinion • 13706 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Immigrant memoir comics offer a unique, personal glimpse into the experiences of immigrants, often presenting their stories in a relatable and engaging way through illustrations. They can show different perspectives, from those who thrive in America to those facing challenges.
  2. Many of these comics highlight the complexities of assimilation and identity while providing insight into the immigrant journey. They often balance humor and serious themes, helping readers understand both the struggles and joys of immigrant life.
  3. Reading these memoirs can be a quick and accessible way to gain empathy and knowledge about the diverse immigrant experiences, especially in today’s political climate where such understanding is crucial.

Some kinds of monsters

Austin Kleon • 5115 implied HN points • 17 May 24
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Taking breaks from technology can be refreshing and help us focus on enjoyable activities like listening to music or reading. Simple changes can lead to significant positive effects in our daily lives.
  2. Finding humor in creative struggles can lighten the load of anxiety and procrastination. Embracing these feelings is part of the writer's journey.
  3. Looking back on influential figures and their work reminds us of their impact on creativity. Cherishing their contributions helps inspire our own artistic endeavors.

Scott Adams and the Art of Dying (and Living Forever) Online

Off-Topic • 453 implied HN points • 13 Feb 26
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. He livestreamed his terminal illness, creating an unusually candid record of dying and drawing a mix of supportive, cruel, and medically questionable responses from viewers.
  2. His daily show acted like a virtual support group and creative crutch, keeping him connected to fans while his anger and online echo chamber drove away many real-world relationships.
  3. After his death an AI trained on his recordings began producing new content, touching off disputes over digital legacy, consent, and whether an AI can truly capture a person’s intentions.

Oh, hail no!

Austin Kleon • 5615 implied HN points • 12 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Comics
  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.

Friday Funnies: Bait and Switch

Who is Robert Malone • 34 implied HN points • 13 Mar 26
😂 Humor Comics
  1. A playful compilation of cartoons and images uses bait-and-switch jokes to deliver quick laughs.
  2. It blends pop-culture touches—songs of the sea, Vikings, and Star Trek—with short comic moments for light morning entertainment.
  3. The tone is friendly and shareable, inviting readers to subscribe and enjoy a cheerful break in their day.

Pushing and pulling

Austin Kleon • 6754 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. There's a difference between the push internet, where things are thrown at you, and the pull internet, where you actively seek out information. It's good to engage more with the pull internet.
  2. To discover your taste, explore artists, read their biographies, and connect with their influences. Following the connections can deepen your understanding and appreciation of their work.
  3. Take time to reflect and be intentional about what you consume. The goal is to search for content that enriches your life rather than just passively scrolling through feeds.

The year, run down

Austin Kleon • 6354 implied HN points • 29 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Reading has a big impact on joy and learning. Books like 'Don Quixote' and 'Dune' brought a lot of happiness this year.
  2. There are many enjoyable ways to spend time with family, like movie nights with kids and discovering new shows after they go to bed.
  3. Music and video games can also be a source of fun and excitement. Creating playlists and playing games like 'Zelda' added to the year's enjoyment.

NO!vember

Austin Kleon • 5955 implied HN points • 03 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Saying 'no' can help you focus on what really matters. If you're unsure about going out, ask yourself if you'd want to do it tomorrow.
  2. Spending time alone can help you discover your true self. It's important to sit quietly and reflect on who you really want to be.
  3. Reading is essential for artists. Great works can inspire you, so make time to read often and explore different stories.

Mr. Autumn Man, activated

Austin Kleon • 4656 implied HN points • 13 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Comics
  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.

Some Cartoons I've Drawn

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2156 implied HN points • 24 Jul 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Comics
  1. The creator is exploring one-panel comics using pen and watercolor. It's a fun way to express creativity and share humor.
  2. One comic pokes fun at a social media post about a deceased Israeli soldier, critiquing how some people use such moments to gain support for a cause.
  3. There's a commentary on how some supporters of Israel sexualize female soldiers to attract attention, which the creator finds odd and worth laughing about.

Make an appointment with yourself

Austin Kleon • 4376 implied HN points • 01 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Making time for yourself is important, and you should commit to it like an important appointment. It's easy to forget self-care in our busy lives, but it can greatly improve your happiness.
  2. Creativity is essential to many artists, and being away from their art can hurt their well-being. Finding ways to create regularly can help maintain a good quality of life.
  3. Explore new books, music, and films to inspire creativity and reflection. Engaging with different forms of art can spark new ideas and perspectives.

The Church of Minding One’s Own Business

Austin Kleon • 4256 implied HN points • 08 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Minding your own business can be a refreshing approach to life. It allows you to focus on your own thoughts and interests instead of getting caught up in others' lives.
  2. Reading good translations can greatly enhance the experience of classic literature. Edith Grossman's work on 'Don Quixote' is a perfect example of how translation can bring a book to life.
  3. Nostalgia is powerful, whether through music or movies. Listening to favorite albums or watching beloved films can bring back fond memories and feelings.

I don’t want to be the best

Austin Kleon • 4915 implied HN points • 14 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Laziness can sometimes lead to more discipline. It's interesting how they can connect in unexpected ways.
  2. Reading apps like Libby and Hoopla have made it easier to discover new books, but it's concerning when access gets restricted for younger audiences.
  3. Midlife crises can be transformative opportunities, so rather than seeing them as negative, we should embrace the change and potential they bring.

Not knowing is the first step

Austin Kleon • 4016 implied HN points • 21 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Sometimes not knowing what you're doing can be a part of the creative process. Even famous artists admit they often don't have everything figured out.
  2. Books can be powerful tools for dealing with loss. There are new releases that focus on saying goodbye and exploring difficult emotions.
  3. Documentaries can be really enjoyable when they're well-made. The recent Wham! documentary shows how good editing can make a story more engaging.

Vol. 2, Issue 34 - A Tribute to Rachael Lillis

Johto Times • 39 implied HN points • 22 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Rachael Lillis was a talented voice actress known for bringing characters like Misty and Jessie to life in the Pokémon anime. Many fans have fond memories of her performances, which shaped their childhood experiences.
  2. She sadly passed away on August 10, 2024, after battling breast cancer, and her loss is deeply felt in the Pokémon community. People are sharing their love and tributes to celebrate her contributions.
  3. The 2024 Pokémon World Championships took place recently, showcasing new champions and announcements for upcoming games. Fans can look forward to more exciting Pokémon content in the future.

No expectations

Austin Kleon • 3137 implied HN points • 14 Feb 23
📚 Literature Comics
  1. Embrace what you have instead of wishing it were different. Focus on what's in front of you rather than dreaming about an imaginary version.
  2. When reading or writing, ask better questions like 'What is this?' instead of thinking about how to fix it. This helps you appreciate the work instead of getting distracted.
  3. Using old notebooks or diaries to inspire new ideas can be helpful. Often, there are gems in past writings that can spark fresh thoughts today.

Where you look is where you go

Austin Kleon • 2797 implied HN points • 20 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Where you focus your attention affects your direction in life. Just like biking, if you look in a certain way, that's where you'll end up.
  2. Reading and exploring new stories, whether in books or through documentaries, can provide insights and deepen your understanding of various subjects.
  3. Having fun and enjoying art, like comedy specials or music, is important for a balanced life. It adds joy and connection to our everyday experiences.

We Need an Illustrated Survival Guide

OK Doomer • 109 implied HN points • 09 Dec 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Comics
  1. Someone is building an illustrated survival guide that aims to cover everything it possibly can.
  2. The guide will rely heavily on detailed images and illustrations to explain skills and concepts visually.
  3. The project is asking for reader support through subscriptions or contributions to help fund and finish it.

Questions From A Young Creator

Tales From the Farm • 943 implied HN points • 15 Feb 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Comics
  1. Comics were not a mainstream career option in the past, but now young creators have more opportunities with social media.
  2. Starting out in comics required perseverance and self-promotion without the help of social media.
  3. Working with major comic companies gives more exposure and pay, but independent work offers greater creative freedom.

FISHFLIES, SWEET TOOTH, TENEMENT AND MORE!

Tales From the Farm • 943 implied HN points • 17 Apr 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Comics
  1. Jeff Lemire's new project 'Fishflies' will launch in print from Image Comics starting in July, with each issue being giant-sized at 56 pages.
  2. Lemire will be doing signings in Toronto, Vancouver, Chicago, and more, along with appearances at events like San Diego Comic Con and the Thought Bubble Festival.
  3. The next book in the Bone Orchard universe called 'Tenement' will launch in June, connecting the pieces from previous stories.

An Introduction to UPA

Animation Obsessive • 4664 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Comics
  1. UPA studio revolutionized animation in the 1940s and 1950s with modern art influences and unique storytelling.
  2. The UPA animation style focused on emotion over anatomy, leading to groundbreaking visuals and storytelling.
  3. UPA's work extended beyond well-known films like Mr. Magoo, encompassing TV commercials, series, and experimental shows.

What's got my attention this week #34

The Shift With Sam Baker • 419 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Comics
  1. Graphic novelist Posy Simmonds won the Grand Prix at the Angoulême comics festival, making her the 5th woman to achieve this. Recommended reads include Gemma Bovery, Tamara Drewe, and Cassandra Darke.
  2. Articles of interest include one on Cindy Sherman not embracing aging, Poorna Bell's piece on living alone, and a story about medical gaslighting towards women.
  3. Encouragement to appreciate the mundane miracles in life, a reflection on Roe v Wade 51 years later, and sex myths debunked for long-term couples.

A heavy canceling by asteroid

Austin Kleon • 1938 implied HN points • 01 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Access to health care, including abortion, is super important for artists and everyone else. Supporting established organizations can really help with this big issue.
  2. Experiencing live music, like a Kraftwerk concert, can be a fantastic family outing and create lasting memories.
  3. Enjoying a good book or watching lighthearted shows can be comforting when you're feeling unwell; it's a nice way to relax and escape.

Update From The Past

Fragmentary • 452 implied HN points • 17 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. The world is evolving into a strange and unpredictable mosaic of realities.
  2. Extreme climate patterns, like heatwaves, are becoming more frequent and concerning.
  3. Personal interests and hobbies, like writing and playing tabletop games, can offer a welcome escape from the chaos of the world.

Usability Testing Process Explained in Comic Strips

Jakob Nielsen on UX • 52 implied HN points • 04 Dec 25
🪑 Design Comics
  1. Usability testing has a 12-step process that applies to different types of products like apps, websites, and appliances. Following all the steps is usually best for teams new to user research.
  2. Using comic strips can make the usability testing process easier to understand. Different styles can be used to show various details and keep it fun.
  3. Incorporating character reference sheets helps maintain consistency in drawing characters when telling a story. This is crucial for clear storytelling in comics.