The hottest Creative Writing Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Literature Topics

Vol. 1, Issue 47 - Interview with The Cave of Dragonflies

Johto Times • 59 implied HN points • 28 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Creative Writing
  1. The Cave of Dragonflies is a long-standing Pokémon fan website created by Dragonfree in 2002. It offers a variety of content, including guides, reviews, and fanfiction, all inspired by her love for Pokémon.
  2. Dragonfree emphasizes the importance of community and personal enjoyment over popularity. She encourages others to create their own websites and pursue their passions, regardless of audience size.
  3. Over the years, Dragonfree has contributed significantly to understanding Pokémon game mechanics and inspired many to start their own fan sites and projects, showcasing the lasting impact of her work.

51. Joy

Spyderdoc Newsletter • 49 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  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.

The Dilemma of Writing

Uneasy’s Substack • 19 implied HN points • 27 Apr 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  1. Starting to write can be difficult and filled with self-doubt. It's common to feel discouraged when seeing others succeed in their writing journey.
  2. Having a passion for language and writing comes naturally, but exploring it deeply can take time and effort. Writing should be an expression that flows from within, not just learned from books.
  3. Life experiences and personal challenges can inspire meaningful writing. Sharing these stories can help others and provide hope to those who may feel lost.

get your own MFA!

practiceprocesscraft • 78 implied HN points • 17 Jul 23
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  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.

Bad Karmala

Fake Noûs • 117 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
⚔ Fiction Creative Writing
  1. The story is about a fictional election where Karmala Harris refuses to accept losing to Donald Trump. She believes the election results were manipulated and insists they should fight back.
  2. Despite evidence showing Trump performed better than before, Karmala argues that there must have been voter fraud because she can't believe so many people switched their votes away from her.
  3. The media and Karmala's supporters rally behind her claims, spreading her message of a stolen election, even though there's no solid proof provided.
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A Starry Escape (an Attempt at Science Fiction)

The Algorithmic Bridge • 276 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  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.

reading/writing: how to herd your attention

bookbear express • 258 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
📚 Literature 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.

Mince pie brain

The Leftovers • 99 implied HN points • 22 Dec 22
📚 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.

AirPods

The Elbow • 39 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration 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.

Excel at Assimilation

antoniomelonio • 75 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
⚔ Fiction Creative Writing
  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.

For And Against The Short Story

Castalia • 159 implied HN points • 08 Dec 22
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  1. Short stories can show the writer's unique style and ideas without the long structure of a novel. They're like a quick look into a writer's mind and creativity.
  2. They focus on a single idea or moment, making them direct and impactful. This clarity helps convey a strong message or theme without distractions.
  3. Reading short stories can sometimes feel light or simple, but they often leave a lasting impression. They can provide a quick escape or thought-provoking experience, similar to enjoying a snack rather than a full meal.

Libertarian Poems

David Friedman’s Substack • 107 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  1. Libertarian values emphasize personal freedom and individual rights. This means people should be able to live their lives as they choose.
  2. Poetry can be a powerful way to express political ideas and feelings. It helps share important messages in a creative way.
  3. The writings of famous authors contribute to the understanding of libertarian themes, showing how these ideas have been explored in literature.

Dino Play

Soaring Twenties • 77 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  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.

A Long and Winding Road

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 30 implied HN points • 15 Jul 25
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  1. Self-promotion is important for writers. If you don’t talk about your work, it might go unnoticed.
  2. Substack can help authors reach a wider audience. It's a modern platform where novels can gain traction that traditional methods may not provide.
  3. Writing a novel is a personal journey. Protect your work like a child and be proud of what you've created, even if others don’t always see its value.

How Khorya And Borya Smuggled A Chort

Soaring Twenties • 77 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  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.

18 pieces of writing advice

Tao Lin • 2 HN points • 11 Aug 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  1. Don't be afraid to save your favorite lines for later instead of cutting them out completely. Keeping a separate file can help you use them in a future piece.
  2. Focus on writing about genuine emotions and experiences. Sharing those deep moments can really connect with your readers.
  3. Be patient with your writing process. Revisit your work multiple times and make small changes until you feel it's ready.

When you dream, what do you dream about?

Soaring Twenties • 61 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📚 Literature 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.

Tab Budget

Breaking Smart • 21 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  1. There's a limit to how many tabs you can have open at once, similar to a budget. This helps keep things organized and manageable.
  2. If you want to open a new tab, you have to close an old one to make space. This rule can help you focus on what's important.
  3. The system automatically closes your oldest tab if you don't manage your tabs in time. This encourages you to prioritize and pay attention to what you're working on.

Pool Boy

Castalia • 79 implied HN points • 21 Apr 23
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  1. The story explores complicated relationships among young adults. It shows how confusion and manipulation can exist in love and friendship.
  2. Stevie, one of the characters, has a unique perspective on life and doesn't care what others think. His laid-back attitude helps him navigate adult situations without losing himself.
  3. Arianna, another character, struggles with her desires and expectations in relationships, showcasing how people's wants can lead to disappointment and a sense of emptiness.

Stories from the Center of the World (w/ Jordan Elgrably) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 75 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  1. Stories from the Middle East show the real lives and struggles of people in that region. They remind us that they are just as human as we are.
  2. The themes of exile and longing for connection are common in these stories. Many characters face loss of identity and struggle with being seen as outsiders.
  3. Reading these stories can open the door to understanding Middle Eastern culture. They serve as an introduction to many talented writers and their experiences.

Happy Sunday

Story Club with George Saunders • 59 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  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.

Me Gustas Tu

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 18 Jun 23
📚 Literature 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.

Revisited and updated: How I reduced my marking time from 4 hours a week to 15 minutes

Eclecticism: Reflections on literature, writing and life • 3 implied HN points • 21 Dec 25
🚌 Education Creative Writing
  1. You can massively cut marking time by building praise and criticism comment banks and using spreadsheet formulas to randomize and concatenate feedback for quick copy‑paste delivery.
  2. Automatically generated comments can sound genuine and be useful, but they sometimes mismatch the student’s work and will require occasional clarification or manual edits.
  3. Spreadsheets are handy for tracking assignments and progress—functions like =randbetween() can generate scores quickly, though you may need to overwrite or adjust numbers and consider broader signs of progress like bravery.

Goodbye [A short story]

Philosophy bear • 64 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
⚔ Fiction Creative Writing
  1. Life is often a mix of good and bad experiences. It's hard to label an entire life as only good or only bad.
  2. We are shaped by our past, but becoming self-aware can help us find new paths forward. Reflecting on our experiences can lead to healing.
  3. Helping others and honoring those we've lost can give our lives meaning. We find purpose in our aspirations and in supporting each other.

My Annual Impossible Question For You

Story Club with George Saunders • 63 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  1. It's important to think about big questions that seem impossible to answer. They can help us reflect on what really matters to us.
  2. Sharing our thoughts and ideas with others can create meaningful conversations. Talking about difficult topics can bring people closer together.
  3. Being open to different perspectives can enrich our understanding of the world. It's good to listen and learn from others' experiences.

Writing by a "Dossier" Method (?)

Story Club with George Saunders • 65 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  1. You can start writing a story just by focusing on your characters first. Get to know them well before adding any plot or action.
  2. There’s no one right way to create a story. Different methods can work, and it’s okay to lean into what feels right for you.
  3. If your story feels a bit flat, try making your characters interact more. This can help bring energy and connection to the narrative.

Mastering the Alchemy of AI Storytelling

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 2 implied HN points • 05 Jan 26
🚌 Education Creative Writing
  1. A hands-on, multi-week seminar teaches writers and artists to use AI as a creative ally for making meaningful short-form videos, emphasizing craft, intention, and experimentation rather than button-click tutorials.
  2. Seasoned instructors and guest teachers guide practical workflows and help students make narrative, visual, and thematic choices that keep human agency and embodiment central.
  3. The program aims to be accessible with discounts, a limited-time late-bird sale, and partial or full scholarships available for those in financial need.

The tale of a cigar on the morning after

Soaring Twenties • 61 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  1. Sometimes we want to enjoy cozy moments, like winter, but we also miss the warmth of summer. It's okay to crave a little sunshine even in the darkest days.
  2. Life can feel heavy with worries, like reading bad news while on vacation. Sometimes, it's better to set those thoughts aside and enjoy the moment.
  3. Small accidents, like stubbed toes, can happen when we least expect them. But a good laugh and a moment with loved ones can help ease the pain.

KERNEL IS COMING

Reboot • 18 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Creative Writing
  1. Kernel Magazine is releasing its fifth issue, focusing on the theme of rules and how they shape our lives. It will include various creative works like essays, stories, and illustrations.
  2. There will be a launch party for the new issue on July 17 in San Francisco, featuring readings and discussions. Tickets are available for $10.
  3. The magazine's cover has been revealed, showcasing the work of a talented illustrator, and the editorial team is excited to share the issue with everyone.

Stand for something

Soaring Twenties • 255 implied HN points • 15 Feb 23
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  1. Stand for something in life, have a purpose or a cause that you believe in.
  2. Sometimes getting stuck in a mundane job can lead to reflecting on personal values and taking actions to change the situation.
  3. Questioning what you stand for can lead to moments of self-realization and empowerment to make bold decisions.

Nothing ever happens / everything happens all the time

The Leftovers • 59 implied HN points • 17 Oct 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Creative Writing
  1. Sometimes unexpected encounters and coincidences can lead to introspection and a desire for change in life.
  2. The exploration of doppelgängers, 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.

Teenager

Nice Try • 139 implied HN points • 07 May 22
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  1. The new novel 'Teenager' will be released on May 10th and has a fun release party on May 8th in NYC. There will be free copies available at the party!
  2. The book features illustrations that add a unique touch, with sketches showing various quirky themes. There are 70 drawings to enjoy throughout the novel.
  3. The story follows two teens in love who go on a cross-country adventure, blending humor and deep emotions. It's described as a wild journey that touches on American culture.

An Astonishing List

Story Club with George Saunders • 56 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  1. Paid subscribers get special perks like exclusive posts and commenting. This helps keep the community engaged and allows for better quality content.
  2. Annemarie Gallaugher created a helpful list of book recommendations based on reader responses. This list aims to guide writers on what to read for inspiration.
  3. The writer is adjusting the posting schedule to balance content creation with personal projects. This change will help manage time better while still providing valuable content to subscribers.

Diary

Autoscriptorium • 39 implied HN points • 04 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture 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.

war in the name of the free | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 17 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
📚 Literature Creative Writing
  1. War is often conducted under the guise of freedom, but it leads to more pain and loss than anyone expects.
  2. The consequences of war, such as destruction and grief, affect innocent people who had nothing to do with the conflicts.
  3. Patriotism can blind people to the harsh realities of governance and its violent implications, leaving many to question what true freedom really means.