The hottest Creative Writing Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Literature Topics

Autofiction Is All We’ve Ever Known

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 518 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
📚 Literature Fiction Autofiction Memoir Narrative Creative Writing
  1. Autofiction, or writing based on personal experiences, has always existed and shapes how we understand ourselves. We create our memories and identities based on our interpretations, which makes our stories a mix of truth and imagination.
  2. The rise of social media has changed how we think about writing. Now it’s not just about reading but also about everyone having the chance to share their thoughts, which can blur the lines between genuine self-expression and simply following trends.
  3. We live in a universe where each person's story and perspective matter. Our ability to explore different versions of ourselves through storytelling can lead to a deeper understanding of who we are and how we connect with reality.

The Forever Dying and the Always Dead; or, Literary Fiction and the Novel

Counter Craft • 1030 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
📚 Literature Literary Criticism Book Sales Cultural Commentary Reader engagement Creative Writing
  1. Literary fiction is often seen as declining, but it's still selling well. We should broaden our view and not just focus on the bestseller lists to understand its impact.
  2. The way books are sold has changed a lot over the years. Nowadays, most people find books in big stores or online, which favors more popular, commercial fiction.
  3. There's a lot of pressure on publishers to find big hits, but they could do better by supporting more authors and promoting a variety of books, not just the ones that are trending.

The way of poetry

Silentium • 399 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
📚 Literature Poetry Contemplation Creative Writing Spirituality Teaching
  1. The practice of poetry can invite us into moments of silence and stillness. It helps us reflect and connect with our deeper selves.
  2. One-on-one sessions and courses can enhance this experience, as they provide tailored guidance and support in exploring poetry and mindfulness.
  3. Meditations and recorded teachings can be valuable tools to return to when we need reminders to slow down and find peace in our busy lives.

When Do We Give Up on Writing?

Unmapped Storylands with Elif Shafak • 15613 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing Literary Criticism Storytelling Children's literature Philosophy
  1. Writing often takes us to a quiet, lonely place where we can be creative, but once we share our work, our lives can become busy and public.
  2. Many people stop calling themselves writers or artists as they grow up because they fear judgment and criticism from others.
  3. We shouldn't let the fear of what others think keep us from expressing ourselves. It's important to hold onto our creativity and remember the joy of storytelling.

No, Actually, James Frey Can Stay Fucked

Freddie deBoer • 10457 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
📚 Literature Creative Writing Memoir Narrative Nonfiction Book Publishing Mental Illness
  1. James Frey's past fabrications in memoir writing highlight the importance of honesty in storytelling. Many people prefer genuine experiences over sensationalized lies.
  2. Writing about mental illness truthfully can be tough. It often doesn’t follow a dramatic or exciting narrative, which can make it less marketable.
  3. Choosing integrity over potential fame or financial gain can be a hard decision for writers. Staying true to oneself is more important than chasing trends or big advances.
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Wordspells to Rewyrd the World

Postcards From Barsoom • 2855 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
📚 Literature Essays Mythology Creative Writing Podcasts Cultural critique
  1. Words have power, and they can shape our reality. The way we use language can create meaningful changes in our lives and society.
  2. Myth and stories play an important role in understanding our world. They connect us to our history and help us make sense of our experiences.
  3. Engaging in deep discussions with others can open our minds to new ideas and perspectives. It's valuable to learn from one another through conversation.

Hector Saves His Dad

Postcards From Barsoom • 1863 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
⚔ Fiction Creative Writing Literature Storytelling Narrative
  1. A boy named Hector goes on a journey to help his dad, showing the strong bond between family members. This story highlights the importance of love and support in difficult times.
  2. The author feels guilty for not doing more for his supporters and wants to offer something special by putting his fiction behind a paywall. This decision is meant to reward those who truly value his work.
  3. Fiction often struggles to get attention and engagement compared to other topics like politics. The author hopes that by offering fiction for paid subscribers, he can encourage more people to appreciate this art form.

There are weird people out there who have no identity

Blackbird Spyplane • 1538 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Interviews Book Reviews Creative Writing
  1. Rachel Kushner's new novel, 'Creation Lake', is about a morally ambiguous spy who is unlikable, but the story remains engaging. It explores deep themes like identity and the history of humanity.
  2. The author highlights the importance of hands-on skills in today's digital age. There's value in physical creation, and those who connect with tangible things often experience richness in life.
  3. Through her writing and experiences, Kushner illustrates complex social issues, including the struggles of marginalized communities. She emphasizes the need to focus on people, not just abstract politics.

Defending Adverbs Exuberantly if Conditionally

Counter Craft • 880 implied HN points • 28 May 25
📚 Literature Writing advice Creative Writing Language Fiction Book promotion
  1. Adverbs can be useful tools in writing, despite the common advice to avoid them. They can add depth and nuance to sentences when used thoughtfully.
  2. Many writers misuse adverbs by using them to repeat information that is already clear. It's better to choose words that enhance the meaning rather than say the same thing twice.
  3. Context is key when using adverbs. Sometimes they can provide clarity, but other times, they may slow down the pace. Think carefully about how they affect your writing.

Rêves trouvés

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 293 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Storytelling Creative Writing Narrative
  1. The author found a lost notebook that had a note asking to be returned to its owner, which sparked a journey to reconnect it with that person.
  2. The contents of the notebook revealed dreams written by someone, which were personal and at times eerie, showcasing the complexities of human emotions.
  3. There was a moral dilemma about returning the notebook, as the author reflected on the past experiences with its owner while trying to do the right thing.

51. Joy

Spyderdoc Newsletter • 49 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
📚 Literature Poetry Essays Creative Writing Personal Reflection
  1. Joy is a feeling that's deeply connected to our hearts and can brighten our everyday lives. It's something we all long for during tough times.
  2. Nature expresses joy in many ways, from rivers flowing to birds singing. These moments remind us to appreciate the beauty around us.
  3. Taking time to pause and feel gratitude is important. It helps us recognize the joy and good things in our lives.

Excel at Assimilation

antoniomelonio • 75 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
⚔ Fiction Literature Creative Writing Storytelling Narrative
  1. Getting stuck in repetitive tasks can feel overwhelming, like being trapped in a never-ending loop with no escape. It's important to find a way out of that cycle to regain your sense of control.
  2. People often define themselves by how they're measured at work, which can feel dehumanizing. We shouldn't let our worth be reduced to numbers and data points.
  3. Finding moments of nostalgia and connection to simpler times can help revive our spirit amidst the chaos of modern work life. Those memories can provide comfort and hope for a better balance.

I could write my Magnum Opus but I simply go to bed

Subtle Digressions • 1019 implied HN points • 05 Aug 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing Personal Reflection Self-discovery Artistic Process Mental health
  1. It's normal to struggle with finding your creative path. Many people feel lost at times, especially when comparing themselves to others who seem successful.
  2. Writing takes time and effort. It's a skill that can be improved with practice, and it's okay to start small and build confidence over time.
  3. Sharing your writing can be scary, but it’s important to embrace vulnerability. Your voice matters, and it can connect with readers in a meaningful way.

Book Review Contest 2024 Winners

Astral Codex Ten • 8947 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Writing Awards Creative Writing
  1. The winners of the 2024 Book Review Contest have been announced, with AmandaFromBethlehem taking first place. She received $2,500 for her review of 'Two Arms And A Head'.
  2. A variety of interesting books were reviewed by participants, showcasing unique perspectives and diverse interests. Some other notable reviews included titles like 'Nine Lives' by David Matolcsi and 'How The War Was Won' by Jack Thorlin.
  3. All winners and finalists earn a free subscription and the chance to pitch essay ideas for potential publication. There are suggestions for future contests to change the format or even skip a year to allow participants more reading time.

Creating Space: A 6-Week Journaling Course

Tech and Tea • 115 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Self-care Creative Writing Personal Development Journaling
  1. Journaling can help clear your mind and make space for new ideas and creativity. It allows you to step back from daily chaos and reflect on what really matters in your life.
  2. The 'Creating Space' course is designed to guide you through a journaling practice over six weeks. It offers themes and prompts to explore different aspects of your life like time and energy.
  3. You don't need to be a seasoned writer to join the course. It's meant to support anyone wanting to find clarity about their goals and aspirations in a gentle and manageable way.

AI and the future of literature.

The Common Reader • 2090 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📚 Literature Literary Criticism Creative Writing AI Impact Cultural Theory Modernism
  1. AI is changing literature and writers need to pay attention to it. It's becoming a tool that helps with research and creates new possibilities in storytelling.
  2. Some see AI as a threat to writing because it can generate content, which might take away from the unique human experience in literature. Others believe it's just another tool that can enhance creativity.
  3. Literature has always adapted to new technology, and ignoring AI might leave writers behind. Engaging with AI might lead to new forms of art and storytelling that we cannot yet imagine.

Against Stories

Castalia • 1918 implied HN points • 07 Jun 24
📚 Literature Literary Criticism Narrative Theory Creative Writing Contemporary Fiction
  1. Stories have a clear structure with a beginning, middle, and end, but life doesn't always fit into these neat patterns. There are moments of confusion, boredom, and the everyday that aren't typically captured in stories.
  2. Many great writers focus on the real, messy aspects of life rather than following traditional story arcs. They highlight the mundane feelings and events that often get overlooked in mainstream literature.
  3. While stories can be enjoyable, getting too caught up in them can make life feel flat or predictable. Embracing the complexities of reality can lead to a richer and more interesting experience.

When you dream, what do you dream about?

Soaring Twenties • 61 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Poetry Narrative Creative Writing
  1. Dreaming about love can feel very real and personal. It's a chance to think about what we truly desire in life.
  2. Fear often holds us back from chasing our dreams and expressing our feelings. Recognizing this fear is the first step to overcoming it.
  3. Living in the present is just as important as dreaming about the future. Enjoying today can lead to meaningful moments and connections.

14 Poems

Tao Lin • 1079 implied HN points • 06 Jul 24
📚 Literature Poetry Creative Writing Publishing Book Reviews Literary Criticism
  1. A chapbook called '14 Poems' was published in June 2023 and quickly sold out. This shows that there is interest in the poems.
  2. The author has made changes to the poems and now has 13 instead of 14. This suggests that they are really committed to perfecting their work.
  3. They are currently writing a full-length poetry book, which will include these poems. This indicates ongoing creativity and growth in their writing.

Thought bubble: I am pleased to report that AI is now a better poet than William McGonagall

Wyclif's Dust • 1877 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry AI History Creative Writing Technology
  1. AI has improved a lot in writing poetry and can now create impressive pieces that rival some human authors. This means anyone can reach a decent level of poetic skill using AI.
  2. Different AI models produce varying quality in poetry, with some showing more creativity and better structure than others. It's interesting to compare how each AI interprets and writes about the same topic.
  3. The development of AI in creative fields could raise the overall skill level in those areas, making it easier for everyone to write poetry well, but true expert poets will still stand out.

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.

Subscriber Writing, February 2025

Freddie deBoer • 1516 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
📚 Literature Creative Writing Essays Reviews Personal narratives Cultural critique
  1. There's a lot of great writing by subscribers every month, so readers should check it out. Submitting work helps gain more readers too.
  2. The email format is changing because there are more submissions than can fit in one message. This change makes it easier for interested readers to find what they want.
  3. The topics covered range widely, from politics to personal experiences, showing the diverse interests of the community and offering something for everyone.

UX Roundup: Film Festival | AI Therapy | AI Radiology | AI Creative Writing | Grok 3

Jakob Nielsen on UX • 13 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🕹 Technology AI Health tech Creative Writing Film Usability
  1. AI technology has made significant strides in creative fields, like filmmaking, showcasing impressive work at events such as the AI Film Festival. Artists are using AI to create stunning visuals and stories, pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
  2. Research indicates that AI can perform on par with human therapists in couples therapy. Although AI therapy is cheaper and more accessible, many people still prefer human interaction due to trust and emotional connection.
  3. AI has demonstrated higher accuracy than human radiologists in medical diagnoses, particularly in breast cancer detection. This advancement has the potential to reduce workloads for doctors and improve early detection rates, highlighting AI's growing role in healthcare.

Be It Resolved!

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2156 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Personal Growth Creative Writing Relationships Self-reflection Mindfulness
  1. Make time to appreciate the beautiful things around you every day. It can really lift your spirits and change your perspective.
  2. Focus on writing more deeply and ambitiously. Challenge yourself to explore new forms of writing you haven't tried before.
  3. Invest in your friendships by regularly reaching out and making plans. Being a good friend can bring joy to both you and those you care about.

These dreams

Disaffected Newsletter • 1079 implied HN points • 03 Jun 24
📚 Literature Memoir Personal narrative Creative Writing Psychology Arts
  1. Some people's dreams can be really intense and dark, often reflecting unfinished business or unresolved fears from the past. They stick with you long after you wake up.
  2. Facing difficult or scary memories in dreams can be a way to process them and find some closure. It's like your mind is trying to help you deal with what happened.
  3. Even after changes in life, like therapy or distancing from harmful people, old dreams can resurface, but understanding them better can bring clarity and healing.

Common Sense and Sensibility

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 30 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📚 Literature Literary Criticism Publishing Cultural Commentary Creative Writing
  1. A new magazine called 'The Metropolitan Review' has launched, focusing on diverse voices and unique perspectives in literature and criticism.
  2. The goal is to embrace individual writers' styles without enforcing a strict house style, allowing for more creative freedom and expression.
  3. The rise of platforms like Substack shows that there’s a growing wave of fresh, independent writing that can challenge traditional media and engage readers.

The Book of Love

Everything Is An Emergency • 2525 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
📚 Literature Memoir Creative Writing Personal Reflection Parenting Grief
  1. The author grapples with how to keep the memory of her deceased husband alive for their newborn daughter. She wants to make him a real part of Athena's life, not just a memory.
  2. Writing serves as a way to confront grief and maintain a connection with the past, helping the author hold onto memories of her husband while also creating new stories with her daughter.
  3. The author reflects on the difficulty of moving forward after loss, balancing the urge to keep her husband's story alive while also accepting that she must let him go in some ways.

big fight with the girlfriend over nothing really | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 28 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Prose Narrative Creative Writing
  1. Sometimes fights can happen over small things that don't really matter. It's important to recognize when that happens.
  2. Words can hurt, and sometimes it's better to keep them to ourselves to avoid misunderstandings in relationships.
  3. Love can be unpredictable and requires balance; it's a give-and-take that can easily tip in the wrong direction.

does this happen to you, too? | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 31 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Creative Writing Narrative
  1. The poem reflects on the comfort and familiarity of home, highlighting quiet moments and soft spaces. It captures how simple things, like a warm blanket or a dog, bring solace after a long day.
  2. Themes of loneliness and the search for deeper connections are present. There is an emptiness felt during late hours, hinting at a desire for something more meaningful than just watching news.
  3. The use of imagery, like 'plum drunk on cheap wine', evokes a sense of relaxation but also highlights a yearning for greater fulfillment in life. It suggests that sometimes we seek comfort but still feel unfulfilled.

Dino Play

Soaring Twenties • 77 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Creative Writing Storytelling
  1. Dinosaurs spark a sense of wonder and playfulness in children. This reminds us how important it is to nurture that joy and imagination.
  2. Parents play a key role in children's beliefs about the world. The father reassures his son about dinosaurs, showing the importance of trust and fun in family interactions.
  3. Stories can transport us to different times and places, allowing us to relive simpler moments. It's great to take a step back and appreciate the playful side of life.

Subscriber Writing, December 2024

Freddie deBoer • 1330 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Essays Book Reviews Creative Writing
  1. There are many interesting blog posts from different writers. These posts cover a wide range of topics that might capture your interest.
  2. The email roundup indicates that reader engagement is important, as more entries mean more chances for quality writing to be discovered.
  3. Subscribing allows you to participate and share your own writing, offering an opportunity to reach a wider audience.

a message of hope | must reads

Tumbleweed Words • 14 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Essays Commentary Reviews Creative Writing
  1. Reading can offer hope and inspiration. It's important to explore and find new perspectives through literature.
  2. Helping others, like poets and writers, can create a supportive community. Everyone can contribute to lifting each other up.
  3. A free trial can give you a taste of great content. It's a good way to see if you'd like to continue reading more.

Happy Sunday

Story Club with George Saunders • 59 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
📚 Literature Creative Writing Reading Storytelling Authors Literary Analysis
  1. The post features a mix of content including answers to questions and plans for future group activities. It's great to have something engaging and interactive to look forward to.
  2. The author apologizes for missing a previous post, showing accountability. It's nice to see someone taking responsibility and connecting with their audience.
  3. Content is mainly for paid subscribers, emphasizing a supportive community. Being part of a paid group can give access to exclusive insights and shared experiences.

street life | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 31 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Nonfiction Narrative Creative Writing
  1. Heavy rain can remind us of the struggles of homeless people and those who are often overlooked in society. It's a tough reality, but it's hard to ignore when the rain falls.
  2. Capitalism can sometimes make us forget about the personal struggles of individuals. It's easy to focus on money and things rather than the well-being of others.
  3. Even though life can be harsh, rain can also symbolize a fresh start. While it can bring problems, it also has the power to cleanse and renew.

WILD, WILD WOMEN: FLORA AND FAUNA (PART 2)

Secretum Secretorum • 505 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual Arts Photography Creative Writing Graphic design
  1. Women have a strong connection to nature and can embody wildness in their spirit. Embracing this can lead to a deeper appreciation for the environment.
  2. The characteristics of flora and fauna can be seen as reflections of feminine energy. Understanding these connections can enrich our perception of both women and nature.
  3. Celebrating wild women means recognizing their power and resilience. It's essential to honor and uplift these qualities in ourselves and others.

How Khorya And Borya Smuggled A Chort

Soaring Twenties • 77 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Creative Writing Narrative Artistic expression
  1. Khariton and Boris are involved in a chaotic plan to smuggle a creature called a chort, leading to humorous and dangerous situations.
  2. The story mixes comedic bickering between characters, showing their cleverness and flaws, as they deal with unexpected challenges.
  3. The ending hints at themes of friendship and camaraderie, even when things go wrong.

2nd Annual Fiction Issue

Soaring Twenties • 139 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Essays Creative Writing Art
  1. The annual fiction issue is a special tradition that celebrates creative writing during the holiday season. It aims to offer readers an escape from negative online trends.
  2. Readers are encouraged to appreciate quality art and storytelling, moving away from the low-quality content often found on the internet.
  3. There is a sense of freedom in choosing what to engage with, and the importance of supporting meaningful creative work is emphasized.

One essay could change the future

The Novelleist • 1118 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing Media Critique Cultural Commentary
  1. Writers have the power to inspire new ideas and change the future. Their words can make us think differently and encourage action.
  2. There is a need for more positive and solution-focused writing. Many writers currently focus on problems, but ideas that show what's working can help us imagine better futures.
  3. Supporting independent writers is important for a healthier media landscape. By funding those who create constructive content, we can promote better discussions and potentially create a brighter future.

ANGEL FIRE

Unbound • 293 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
⚔ Fiction Short Stories Creative Writing Narrative Character development Literary themes
  1. Ben is released from prison and tries to adjust to the real world, moving from a fantasy life back to reality. He feels excited but also scared about what lies ahead.
  2. He finds a job at a coffee shop called The Orbiter, which suits him well and helps him rediscover his love for storytelling and imagination. The owner, Ollie, believes in him and offers him a chance to rebuild his life.
  3. Ben encounters hostility from a group that hates imagination and creative pursuits, leading him to confront his past and the darker parts of society he now wants to navigate. He is determined to stand up for what he cares about.