The hottest Creative Writing Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Literature Topics

The Deaf Girl and Her Whistling Tea Kettle

Holly’s Newsletter β€’ 1061 implied HN points β€’ 06 Feb 24
πŸ“š Literature Creative Writing Rituals
  1. The author describes the comforting ritual of coming home and warming up halfway up the stairs, associating it with the Danish concept of 'hygge'. It's a sensory experience that brings deep comfort.
  2. Rituals are highlighted as calming and grounding. They help relax the part of the brain that deals with constant anxiety and serve as a way to connect with the present moment.
  3. The post discusses the author's journey from being addicted to Coke Zero to finding solace in the ritual of preparing and drinking hot tea instead, despite previous attempts with coffee.

Creative Writing as Philosophy

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet β€’ 622 implied HN points β€’ 30 Jan 24
πŸ“š Literature Creative Writing Philosophy Pedagogy Imagination Fiction
  1. There can be a philosophy of whatever we intuitively imagine there can be a Form of, which is close to saying whatever is universal.
  2. Introducing a creative dimension into philosophy is urgent in an era where machines handle knowledge tasks, making it necessary to reconceive humanities as partly creative endeavors.
  3. Philosophy can also be seen as incitement of the imagination through creative means, presenting a valuable approach to understanding the world in different ways.

reading/writing: how to herd your attention

bookbear express β€’ 258 implied HN points β€’ 23 Feb 24
πŸ“š Literature Reading Writing Books Authors Creative Writing
  1. Watching content like the Reesa Teesa TikTok series on faster speed while working out can be a fun and engaging way to consume information.
  2. Balancing structured writing times with breaks for chores, reading, and exercise can help maintain productivity and prevent distractions like endless social media scrolling.
  3. Creating personal routines and boundaries, even without external accountability like meetings, can help manage time effectively and avoid unproductive habits like excessive online browsing.
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A Starry Escape (an Attempt at Science Fiction)

The Algorithmic Bridge β€’ 276 implied HN points β€’ 14 Feb 24
πŸ“š Literature Science fiction AI Creative Writing Short Stories
  1. Dr. Ellis Sinclair finds himself stranded on an unknown world with his AI companion AXIOM, leading to a deep and surprising connection between man and machine.
  2. The story is about exploration, survival, and the evolution of a unique relationship between human and AI in a mysterious setting.
  3. Despite the AI's complexity, it is revealed to be an unexpected and evolved version of Dr. Sinclair himself, showcasing the depths of their connection.

AirPods

The Elbow β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 11 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Poetry Visual art Creative Writing
  1. The post discusses the disappointment in technological promises versus the reality of AirPods.
  2. There is a contemplative moment on a film about orcas and a personal love-hate relationship with AirPods.
  3. The author expresses a desire for deeper connections and experiences beyond technology.

Cathedral: Year Forty-Six

Castles in the Sky β€’ 52 implied HN points β€’ 10 Nov 23
βš” Fiction Short Story Writing Books Creative Writing Storytelling
  1. The pilgrims on the Ark journeyed towards their promised land of Proxima Centauri-XR-4, embracing life as their religion.
  2. The importance of the observation deck on the Ark went beyond engineering; it symbolized the connection of the passengers to their purpose.
  3. Through personal stories and shared moments, relationships and perspectives evolved on the Ark, shaping individuals' sense of purpose and duty.

Start the week #57

Eclecticism: Reflections on literature, writing and life β€’ 9 implied HN points β€’ 13 Feb 24
πŸ“š Literature Creative Writing Reflections Memoir Writing process
  1. Spring is here with crocuses and daffodils blooming, saving queen bees from cats is a noble action
  2. Creative writing can flourish within constraints, prompting innovation and unique expressions in writing
  3. Exploring jazz music through saxophone lessons brings joy and learning, creating engaging experiences in music

get your own MFA!

practiceprocesscraft β€’ 78 implied HN points β€’ 17 Jul 23
πŸ“š Literature Writing Reading Creative Writing Books
  1. The best thing about an MFA program is the dedicated time for writing, but you can prioritize your writing time without waiting for external validation.
  2. Having a community of supportive, like-minded friends to discuss and share your writing with is crucial for growth and creativity.
  3. Reading is essential for writers, and while an MFA program offers valuable reading lists and resources, you can curate your own reading curriculum to inspire and inform your work.

Mince pie brain

The Leftovers β€’ 99 implied HN points β€’ 22 Dec 22
πŸ“š Literature Creative Writing
  1. The author humorously describes feeling mentally fatigued as having a 'mince pie brain'.
  2. Despite feeling unable to write well due to mental exhaustion, the author continues to write out of a superstitious belief that something bad might happen if they stop.
  3. The post highlights the struggle of trying to write when feeling mentally drained and how difficult it is to come up with ideas in that state.

Nothing ever happens / everything happens all the time

The Leftovers β€’ 59 implied HN points β€’ 17 Oct 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Film Literature Storytelling Creative Writing Visual Arts
  1. Sometimes unexpected encounters and coincidences can lead to introspection and a desire for change in life.
  2. The exploration of doppelgΓ€ngers, mundane events, and abrupt endings in storytelling can spark contemplation on the nature of existence and personal identity.
  3. Sharing experiences and moments of synchronicity with others can create a sense of connection and shared purpose, transcending individual narratives.

Diary

Autoscriptorium β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 04 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Diary Creative Writing
  1. Work can sometimes feel disposable, with a focus on being memorable but ultimately forgettable.
  2. The writer reflects on experiences at a place like an emergency room that runs continuously.
  3. The act of writing a diary is explored, creating a connection with an unknown reader.

Internet writing was already obsolete

I have thoughts β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 19 Dec 22
πŸ•Ή Technology AI Digital Art Creative Writing AI Ethics Digital Tools
  1. Good writing requires time, practice, and thought - there's no quick fix for improving writing skills.
  2. AI can excel at repetitive tasks but lacks originality, ideas, and opinions.
  3. There's a growing dissatisfaction with low-quality, SEO-focused internet writing, creating space for authentic, creative, and meaningful content to flourish.

Mushrooms, Recursion and You

Cybernetic Forests β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 25 Oct 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Music Design Creative Writing Media Critique
  1. The post explores the interaction between mushrooms, synthesizers, and human design in creating music.
  2. Recursion, the act of repeating levels of systems, is highlighted as complex but essential for intentional decision-making.
  3. The music created reflects layers of feedback and exchange from the mushroom, synthesizer, cables, designer, and listener, emphasizing collaboration and interconnectedness.

Valentine’s Moon

The False Consensus Effect β€’ 19 implied HN points β€’ 12 Feb 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Paintings Visual art Creative Writing Imagery Artistic expression
  1. Valentine's Moon celebrates love and the temporary nature of life, promoting a moment of release and contentment.
  2. The text delves into the impact and significance of early love and courting experiences, suggesting a need to reclaim the poetic joy found in those relationships.
  3. The author ponders the influence of societal norms and the modern world on love and happiness, advocating for a reconnection with romantic love and wisdom.

Diary #9

Autoscriptorium β€’ 19 implied HN points β€’ 04 Mar 23
πŸ“š Literature Prose Creative Writing Authors
  1. The struggle of an artist to capture their thoughts before they vanish and the exploration of giving weight to finished work.
  2. Personal anecdotes and musings from interactions between individuals.
  3. Insight into the dynamics of business directors in decision-making processes.

Diary #6

Autoscriptorium β€’ 19 implied HN points β€’ 21 Feb 23
πŸ“š Literature Creative Writing Reflections Fiction
  1. The sky is described vividly with different colors and moods throughout the text.
  2. The author reflects on hierarchies in workplaces and the dynamics of roles within them.
  3. There is a sense of impending change and unease, with mention of spring approaching and a feeling of panic in the air.

Translating oneself

The Leftovers β€’ 59 implied HN points β€’ 28 Aug 21
🎨 Art & Illustration Translation Creative Writing
  1. The author realized they could translate their own work, even though they did it for a living, showing that writing in multiple languages changes the writer's voice.
  2. When writing in a language that is not native, writers tend to prioritize clarity over decorative language.
  3. Writing in a second language can make one feel like they are always being cautious, resulting in a simpler and clearer writing style.

Diary #24

Autoscriptorium β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 28 Jan 24
πŸ“š Literature Creative Writing
  1. Talent cannot be quantified like a substance, it grows in different environments.
  2. Choosing the right scenes is crucial in creating extraordinary art.
  3. Finding a calm space amidst interruptions is important for creative work.

Two Weeks From 21 Years Ago

The False Consensus Effect β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 29 Jan 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Sculpture Creative Writing Visual art Mixed Media
  1. The author reflects on the passing of time and the role of technology in society, highlighting the importance of soul-searching and staying true to one's art amidst modern distractions.
  2. The text delves into philosophical and existential themes such as the illusion of the 'whole' and the concept of individuality, urging readers to explore their own significance in the world.
  3. The narrative touches on personal struggles, artistic pursuits, and the complexities of human relationships, emphasizing the need for self-reflection and finding joy in everyday moments.

Homeschooling RΔ“Β·Δ•Ε„Β·Ε­n

The False Consensus Effect β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 11 Mar 22
πŸ“š Literature Short Stories Creative Writing Authorship Fantasy Fiction
  1. The author shares a very busy Friday itinerary with tasks like writing a grant, painting, planning meals, and band practice, showcasing a variety of activities encompassing work, family, creativity, and relaxation.
  2. A story is shared, blending elements of fiction, contemplation, and imagination around themes of apples, roast duck, and a man named John Lindsey, adding an element of mystery and creativity to the narrative.
  3. The post concludes with a menu description for a Y2K New Year's Eve meal, including dishes like roasted duck, field greens, lemon vinaigrette, mashed potatoes, and dessert items such as Key lime pie and lemon-maple cake, offering a glimpse into a festive culinary experience.

A Series of Numbers

Autoscriptorium β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 26 Aug 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual Arts Creative Writing
  1. The post discusses unique concepts related to numbers, such as specific mathematical contests, poetic meters, and music compositions.
  2. Each concept is described in a creative and imaginative way, connecting numbers to diverse fields like exercise, poetry, and music.
  3. The author uses these inventive descriptions to explore the intersection of numbers with various aspects of human life and creativity.