The hottest Comics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

The Wit's Guide to Euphemism

Get Wit Quick • 393 implied HN points • 30 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Euphemisms were traditionally used for sensitive topics like sex and death
  2. Euphemisms are often used in real estate listings to mask negative attributes
  3. Euphemisms can be seen as a way to soften harsh truths or navigate social situations

Vol. 2, Issue 21 - Aiden's Parting Pokémon Gift

Johto Times • 59 implied HN points • 23 May 24
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Aiden shares a touching memory about a special Pokémon card gifted to him by his friend Seojin before she moved away. It shows how friendships can leave lasting impressions, even if they become distant.
  2. The Pokémon community continues to grow, with new card sets and events being announced regularly. It's exciting for fans to stay updated and connect over their shared interests.
  3. Nostalgia plays a big role in Aiden's journey with Pokémon, as he takes a break from gaming and later returns to reignite his passion. This shows that interests can come back to life at any moment.

Based Safety vs. Cringe Propaganda #50

Safety Propaganda • 314 implied HN points • 09 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. The author shares a heartfelt story about their deep grief and loss of their beloved pet
  2. The newsletter discusses the excitement in the world of bodybuilding and UFC fights, including notable events such as the Arnold Classic and Jon Jones' return
  3. The section 'Cringe Propaganda' explores various controversial topics in the art world and pop culture, critiquing trends and media personalities

Embrace bewilderment

Austin Kleon • 1258 implied HN points • 10 Jun 22
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. It's important to embrace confusion and not just rely on cleverness. Being bewildered can lead to new discoveries.
  2. Reading graphic novels can be a fun way to learn about complex topics. They can explain important ideas in an engaging way.
  3. Using features on social media, like Instagram, can make the experience less overwhelming. Choosing what you see can help you enjoy it more.

My COVID diaries

Austin Kleon • 1159 implied HN points • 05 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Sharing when you're sick can feel a bit attention-seeking, similar to announcing a birthday. It’s like waiting for others to acknowledge your situation.
  2. During recovery, prioritizing what not to do is just as important as what to do. It’s okay to take a break from daily tasks and responsibilities.
  3. Finding comfort in simple pleasures like comic books and familiar music can be a helpful way to cope when you're feeling unwell.
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Episode 1.0 Opening

404EVER • 275 implied HN points • 20 Feb 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Comics
  1. The post is about Episode 1.0 Opening on 404ever.substack.com
  2. The content includes a comic by Lordess Foudre intended for adult readers
  3. Readers can continue the episode by subscribing to the website

Let me eat and not be eaten

Austin Kleon • 1179 implied HN points • 03 Jun 22
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Bicycles can inspire creativity and bring joy to life. Riding a bike is not just exercise; it can be a fun way to explore new ideas.
  2. Reading comics can be both entertaining and educational. They offer a unique way to learn about complex topics.
  3. Graduation is a big milestone, and it comes with new opportunities. It's important to embrace change and stay open to new experiences.

Study something you love in depth!

Austin Kleon • 1418 implied HN points • 01 Feb 22
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Focus on what you love and study it deeply. Spending time on something you enjoy can reveal new insights and spark creativity.
  2. When exploring an artist's work, you can go in order or pick and choose pieces that interest you. Both approaches can bring value to your understanding.
  3. Share your learning journey with others. It helps you connect with similar fans and encourages you to keep going, all while enjoying the process.

The map is not the territory

Austin Kleon • 1059 implied HN points • 20 May 22
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Maps are not the same as reality. They can only represent parts of a complex world we live in.
  2. You don't need to visualize things in your mind to create great art. Many artists, including those with aphantasia, can still draw well without mental images.
  3. The impact of creative works, like books and music, can influence and inspire us. Exploring new recommendations can enrich our lives.

Episode 1.1

404EVER • 235 implied HN points • 28 Mar 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Comics
  1. The post is about Episode 1.1 of a series called THE PHANTOM PLEASURE: HEAVY META SAGA.
  2. The comic is intended for mature readers and should be read from left to right in Western-style.
  3. More episodes are coming soon.

The magic of the brush

Austin Kleon • 1398 implied HN points • 26 Oct 21
🎨 Art & Illustration Comics
  1. The Pentel Pocket Brush Pen is a great tool for drawing and writing. It helps spark creativity and makes it fun to express yourself on paper.
  2. Using a brush pen can change how you think about writing. Drawing slowly with it can free your mind, allowing deeper thoughts and ideas to flow.
  3. You can refill the brush pen with your own ink, which saves money and is more personal. It's easy to use, and you can experiment with different colors and styles.

The Domes of Calrathia

Trantor Publishing • 99 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
📚 Literature Comics
  1. Uncertainty and anxiety can torment us, but training the mind to let go of attachments can lead to inner peace.
  2. The Zenoist philosophy advocates for tolerating both good and evil to reach a state of tranquility, but few can fully embrace this way of life.
  3. Choosing to offer forgiveness and support to others, even in the face of suffering and despair, can bring unexpected connections and opportunities for redemption.

It's Kadigan Weather

Timeless & Timely • 176 implied HN points • 14 Oct 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Comics
  1. The world of comics has its own unique rules and language.
  2. Cartoonist Mort Walker's book 'The Lexicon of Comicana' explores this special language.
  3. Walker's book not only names common items in comics but also reveals universal illustration techniques.

A 2025 Reading List For Unfocused Esoterics

Marginally Compelling • 13 implied HN points • 18 Dec 25
📚 Literature Comics
  1. Reading widely provided comfort and focus during a hard year, serving as both enjoyment and a way to explore new ideas and projects.
  2. A strong theme is human dignity and care — several books argue for recognizing dependence, treating animals and caregivers with respect, and designing homes and communities that support real human life.
  3. Many picks probe the social effects of technology and automation, from AI and game theory to universal basic income and software practices, and call for practical, humane responses to those changes.

Sunday Strip: Advanced Fuc_ery

Who is Robert Malone • 24 implied HN points • 16 Nov 25
😂 Humor Comics
  1. Advanced techniques in a specific field can lead to greater understanding and results. It's important to stay informed about the latest methods.
  2. Engaging with complex concepts requires ongoing learning and adaptation. It's vital to remain curious and open-minded.
  3. Discussion and sharing of ideas can enhance knowledge and stimulate critical thinking. Collaborating with others can help deepen insights.

Comics from 1983/08 Today Mag

Computer Ads from the Past • 512 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Comics
  1. The post shares comics from the August 1983 issue of Today magazine, providing a glimpse into humor from the past.
  2. Readers are encouraged to suggest what computer ads they'd like to see in the future and to share the post with friends and relatives if they enjoyed it.
  3. The publication, 'Computer Ads from the Past,' offers readers the opportunity to subscribe and support future content.

TITAA #46: Golems, Tulpas, Egregores and AI

Things I Think Are Awesome • 137 implied HN points • 01 Sep 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Comics
  1. The post discusses folkloric entities like golems, tulpas, and egregores, which are created by humans and can have varied effects.
  2. Golems are creatures from Jewish folklore created from mud or clay with specific activation and deactivation methods.
  3. There are parallels between these entities and modern phenomena like AI behavior and strange chatbot interactions.

sunday memepool 2

bad cattitude • 91 implied HN points • 25 May 25
😂 Humor Comics
  1. Truth is important, and it's good to share honest opinions with others. Talking about what you really think helps everyone understand each other better.
  2. Hard work is necessary to achieve your goals. If you want to succeed, you need to put in the effort and practice regularly.
  3. Learning and discussing different perspectives can open your mind. Engaging in conversations can help you grow and see things differently.

sunday meanpool

bad cattitude • 86 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
😂 Humor Comics
  1. Times are tough right now, and many people are feeling the pressure. It's important to recognize the challenges we all face.
  2. Memes can provide a light-hearted way to cope with difficult situations. They help us find humor even when things are hard.
  3. Sharing experiences and laughter with others can make tough times more bearable. Community support is really valuable during hard days.

Comics From The Cutting Room Floor

YeeHawTheBoys Direct • 117 implied HN points • 03 Apr 23
💥 Comics Comics
  1. The post shares comic ideas that were never completed or jokes that were dropped.
  2. The author reflects on losing faith in ideas, getting too busy, and cutting ideas.
  3. One of the significant ideas discussed is a fourth edition of the 'Billy The Maverick' series with a new side-kick.

The Spectacle Is...

Banana Peel Pirouette • 59 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Comics
  1. The author drew inspiration for their writing from the book 'Society of the Spectacle' by Guy Debord and created a collection of 'the spectacle is...' sentences.
  2. The project was reminiscent of 'Love Is...' comic strips in its saccharine and creepy tone, leading the author to delve deeper into the concept.
  3. The author explored the theme akin to love, revealing a creative process that evolved as one idea sparked another in their writing.

The Death of Calvin and Hobbes

Litverse • 299 implied HN points • 28 Jun 22
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Commercialization can play a significant role in the legacy of artistic creations.
  2. The choice between commercial success and artistic integrity can impact the longevity of a work.
  3. Imagination and immersion in fantasy worlds provide comfort and escape, shaping our values and perspectives.

Links for January

Bullfish Hole • 58 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. There is ongoing debate about the 'peak woke' movement and its impact on organizations and individuals.
  2. Challenges in automating industries like construction lie in the complexity of tasks and the need for human adjustments.
  3. Historical research often uncovers surprising truths, confirming myths and legends from the past.

End-of-Year Self-Congratulatory Gala

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 424 implied HN points • 28 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. The Figurative-to-Abstract Art Pipeline was the most popular post of 2023 with significant views, likes, comments, and subscribers.
  2. The Gold-Plated Man was acknowledged as the most under-appreciated post, despite being short, it made a strong, elegant point with good cover art.
  3. The post 'One Thousand and One Notes on 'One Thousand and One Nights'' was crowned as the best post of 2023 for its rich, aesthetic, and narrative qualities.

Vol. 1, Issue 41 - Interview with Craig Turvey (Create-a-Snorlax Card Contest)

Johto Times • 79 implied HN points • 16 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Craig Turvey won the Create-a-Snorlax Card Contest in 2002 and created artwork that became an official Pokémon promo card. He was one of only two Western artists featured for that contest.
  2. Winning the contest gave Craig a unique connection to the Pokémon community. He still runs a Pokémon League and enjoys signing cards for fans.
  3. The popularity and value of Pokémon cards, especially Craig's Snorlax promo card, have greatly increased over the years, making it a noteworthy collector's item.

The Work of the MCU and the DCU

Oliver Bateman Does the Work • 78 implied HN points • 17 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Criticism of popular superhero film franchises like MCU and DCU for being shallow and lacking depth.
  2. Nostalgic reflection on the past of comic book culture, highlighting a sense of loss as conventions transitioned to mainstream showcases.
  3. Discussion of current political rifts within the conservative movement and their impact on party ideology.

sunday memepool: lighten up

bad cattitude • 107 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
😂 Humor Comics
  1. Laughing at ourselves can lighten heavy moments, so don't take life too seriously. Humor can really change how we feel about tough situations.
  2. We often don't see the big changes happening around us until later. Sometimes, the small things we do can have a major impact in unexpected ways.
  3. Everyone sees the world through their own unique perspective. It's important to recognize that our views may be shaped by our own experiences and beliefs.

Sunday Strip: The Original Big Beautiful Bill

Who is Robert Malone • 39 implied HN points • 06 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. It's important to share information and stories with others. This helps build community and keeps everyone informed.
  2. Humor can make serious topics more relatable and enjoyable. A little laughter can lighten the mood.
  3. Supporting creators and sharing their work helps them continue doing what they love. Consider helping out in any way you can.

Calvin & Hobbes, Bill Watterson and Art Over Commerce

SatPost by Trung Phan • 106 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Bill Watterson, the creator of Calvin & Hobbes, chose not to commercialize his work through merchandise. He believed that doing so would devalue the comic and preferred to keep it as pure art.
  2. Watterson stopped drawing Calvin & Hobbes after ten years, feeling that he had said everything he wanted to say. He wanted to leave when the comic was still loved, rather than risk it becoming stale.
  3. Watterson's journey shows that creating art for the love of it, rather than for money, can lead to lasting impact. His decision to not overextend Calvin & Hobbes has kept its legacy alive and well-regarded even decades later.

How to Keep a Man

Autoscriptorium • 59 implied HN points • 14 Aug 23
😂 Humor Comics
  1. Consistency is key in maintaining a relationship by creating a stable and predictable environment.
  2. Conscientiousness involves taking care of your partner's needs and ensuring their well-being.
  3. Continuity emphasizes the importance of maintaining a connection and bond with your partner over time.

Friday Funnies: Dog Days

Who is Robert Malone • 33 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
😂 Humor Comics
  1. AI can greatly affect our unconscious thoughts and biases. It's important to be aware that technology is shaping how we think and feel.
  2. Skepticism about AI is healthy, but we should still recognize its power. Stay informed and critically evaluate the influences in your life.
  3. The unique qualities of animals, like horses, are showcased in specialized sports. They can do remarkable things, and each animal brings its own special traits.

Friday Funnies: Over-Whelming

Who is Robert Malone • 36 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
😂 Humor Comics
  1. Life can feel overwhelming at times. It's important to recognize how busy and fast-paced things can get.
  2. Time seems to move faster as we experience more. This feeling of time compression can make past events seem like they happened long ago.
  3. Humor can be a great way to cope with the challenges of life. Laughter often helps lighten the mood during tough times.

Vol. 1, Issue 19 - Memories of the Pokémon European International Championship 2023

Johto Times • 79 implied HN points • 15 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. The Pokémon European International Championships 2023 was a big event in London where fans could compete and learn about various Pokémon games. There were lots of activities, including the new Play Lab to help beginners learn how to play.
  2. A special Pokémon trading card set was released, featuring the return of the Kadabra card after 20 years. This set is exciting for fans and marks a big moment in the Pokémon TCG community.
  3. Attendees should plan ahead for events like this to secure spots at attractions like the Pokémon Center. Popular items can sell out quickly, so it's best to book early and enjoy the experience!

Sunday Strip: Happy XY Day!

Who is Robert Malone • 31 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25
😂 Humor Comics
  1. The author joked about a lost dog and ended up with a real dog that matched their silly description. It's funny how unexpected situations can happen.
  2. The new dog's behavior is quirky and strange, making it feel like part of a funny story. Sometimes things don’t go as planned, but they turn out interesting.
  3. This situation highlights how humor can lead to unusual realities in life. It's a reminder to embrace unexpected moments and laugh at them.

Are you helping?

Austin Kleon • 239 implied HN points • 28 Jan 22
🎭️ Culture Comics
  1. Artists should focus on helping others in their work, even if it's not always cheerful. It's about the impact you make.
  2. Reading novels in relaxing settings, like the bathtub, can enhance your reading experience and enjoyment.
  3. Listening deeply to music can help you connect more with the artist. It’s a great way to appreciate something you love even more.