The hottest Cultural Commentary Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

In Spite of Everything, Celebrate this Fourth of July

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 8031 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Independence National Identity Political critique International relations Cultural Commentary
  1. Independence Day is a time to recognize and embrace America's flaws. It's okay to celebrate who we are, even when others criticize us.
  2. The world views America in a negative light right now, which can be frustrating, but it doesn't define our identity.
  3. Celebrating independence means accepting the past and looking forward, despite what others might say about our country.

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.

Shah Shah a Come Come

Wrong Side of History • 284 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political theory Cultural Commentary Historical Analysis Current Events
  1. Iran's current regime is using old plans from the Shah's time for their nuclear program, but it hasn't achieved much yet. Many Iranians still feel a sense of nationalism despite their discontent with the government.
  2. There's a notion that society's challenges should be addressed with stability in government rather than just pushing for democracy. A monarchist approach could offer long-term solutions instead.
  3. London has a mix of wealth and poverty, and many people are leaving for other areas in search of opportunities. This shift is changing the cultural landscape, making London feel less connected to the rest of the UK.

NYT Essay, My Name

The Upheaval • 1844 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Media Critique Cultural Commentary Identity politics
  1. The author wrote an opinion piece in the New York Times explaining the managerial regime and why some people dislike it. They want to share their views with a broader audience.
  2. The author has chosen to publish under a pen name, N.S. Lyons, but revealed their real name, Nathan Levine, after feeling ignored by journalists and NGOs.
  3. They mentioned their own background, noting that although they have some Jewish ancestry, they identify as an Orthodox Christian, and they are aware of how this might attract attention online.
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Maybe God is a curious God

Blackbird Spyplane • 1958 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🎶 Music Artist interviews Album Reviews Songwriting Cultural Commentary Live performance
  1. Father John Misty thinks that writing long songs can be as effective as short ones. He usually writes big, unstructured pieces that turn into several songs later.
  2. He reflects on how fame has taught him humility and changed his perspective on music. His recent experiences as a parent have also influenced his songwriting and personal growth.
  3. The new album explores themes of identity and existence, suggesting that our experiences might be part of a larger, non-human consciousness. He sees God as a curious presence that experiences life through individual human experiences.

What questions should writers ask?

The Common Reader • 2764 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
📚 Literature Writing Literary Criticism Publishing Cultural Commentary Creative Process
  1. Writers today should focus on asking deeper questions instead of just discussing surface-level political issues. This can help bring more relevance back to literature.
  2. There is an ongoing debate about how different forms of writing can be explored beyond novels and personal essays. Writers should think about how new platforms like Substack can influence this.
  3. The literary community should work on encouraging and promoting new talent, especially those who can connect with modern themes and technologies like AI.

My Husband Wants to Be Cremated. I’d Ignore His Dying Wish.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 881 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Media Analysis Personal narratives Cultural Commentary
  1. The author and her husband often discuss death and their funeral wishes, showing it's a real concern for them. She wants a traditional wake, while he prefers cremation.
  2. The HBO series 'The Mortician' highlights shocking stories about a sociopathic undertaker, making her rethink funeral practices. It raises alarms about how some bodies are handled after death.
  3. There's a fear of what happens to bodies after death, with examples of mismanagement, leading the author to express a strong preference for a burial over donation or cremation.

Shibboleths of Stupid

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 2717 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ideology Power Dynamics Cultural Commentary Government Role Identity politics
  1. Every group has specific words or ideas that only insiders can understand. These 'shibboleths' help determine who belongs and who doesn't.
  2. Some people twist facts to gain power and control, often using absurd claims to rally supporters. This can happen on both sides of politics.
  3. When people prioritize political power over truth, they lose touch with reality and can end up promoting silly ideas, which can spread widely.

Did you see her or not?

Disaffected Newsletter • 11670 implied HN points • 01 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Gender Politics Human Rights Cultural Commentary
  1. The Exorcist shows the struggle of seeing the truth while others refuse to acknowledge it. Chris MacNeil, the mother, feels alone in her fight to explain her daughter's possession.
  2. People have been trying to speak out about the reality of gender and biological sex. Many feel their views are dismissed as bigotry, even when they see the truth clearly.
  3. Recent events, like a woman being beaten by a trans athlete, highlight the ongoing debate about sex and fairness in sports, leaving many feeling frustrated and unheard.

Dilatasti cor meum

Quid Amo • 937 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Analysis Book Reviews Cultural Commentary
  1. Reading stories can help us understand other people's lives and feelings. It allows us to see the world from different perspectives.
  2. Tenderness in storytelling is important. Authors can show characters' struggles while still portraying their humanity and capacity for love.
  3. Finding a sense of belonging is essential. We all want to feel loved and accepted, and good books can reflect that longing and offer hope.

Collective Psychosis in Vermont

Disaffected Newsletter • 2457 implied HN points • 06 Sep 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health Policy Analysis Social Issues Cultural Commentary Local news
  1. Oktoberfest in Burlington was canceled due to health concerns about Eastern Equine Encephalitis, which affects mosquitoes in the area.
  2. Despite the low number of cases, local officials advised residents to avoid outdoor activities during certain hours to prevent infections.
  3. The response reflects a larger trend of reacting emotionally to health risks, leading to broader community actions that some see as extreme or unnecessary.

Why the Danes do it better (and other stories)

Wrong Side of History • 289 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Justice System Political Opinion Social Issues Public Policy Cultural Commentary
  1. Denmark's summerhouse culture promotes happiness, as many people have access to homes by the coast. This is different from the UK's struggle with second home ownership and the politics around it.
  2. Danish politics thrive on transparency and honesty, helping to maintain trust and satisfaction among the public. This contrasts with the perception of politics in countries like Britain, where trust has eroded.
  3. The discussion around welfare in the UK highlights a connection between social breakdown and dependency on benefits, raising concerns about long-term consequences and the need for systemic change.

So Much "Succession" 

SatPost by Trung Phan • 79 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Family Dynamics Corporate Governance Cultural Commentary
  1. The Murdoch family's media empire is facing succession drama similar to the TV show 'Succession.' Rupert Murdoch's plans for his children to inherit control have sparked legal battles.
  2. The trust set up by Rupert Murdoch grants all four of his eldest children equal voting rights after his death, but he has tried to change that to favor one child, creating tension among the siblings.
  3. The real-life Murdoch family's rivalry and issues echo many plot points from 'Succession,' leading to speculation about which family member is leaking stories to the show's writers.

Book Review: The Rise Of Christianity

Astral Codex Ten • 27117 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
📚 Literature Book review Religious Studies Historical Analysis Cultural Commentary Christianity
  1. Early Christianity grew slowly but steadily, with a strong growth rate mainly from interpersonal connections and participation in social networks, rather than just mass conversions or miracles.
  2. The appeal of Christianity, especially to women, played a key role in its spread, as it offered more rights and better treatment compared to pagan societies, leading to higher female engagement.
  3. Christians often cooperated during plagues, caring for the sick while pagans fled, which not only saved lives but showcased their moral values, drawing more people to their faith.

The comfort of drawing Batman

Austin Kleon • 2018 implied HN points • 20 Aug 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Drawing Creativity Comics Cultural Commentary Personal Reflection
  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.

Why Is the Tesla Cybertruck So Depressingly Ugly?

The Honest Broker • 30021 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Design Aesthetics Art Criticism Cultural Commentary Society
  1. The design of the Tesla Cybertruck is seen as ugly and intimidating, making it resemble a military vehicle rather than a car. This choice of design seems to prioritize power over aesthetic beauty.
  2. Many modern designs, including the Cybertruck, lack the nuances and curves that characterize beautiful art and architecture. Instead, they often appear harsh and cold, making them feel less welcoming.
  3. The trend towards ugly and aggressive designs reflects a cultural shift towards asserting power and dominance in society, which affects creativity and art negatively.

October 2024 Q&A

Glenn Loury • 238 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Public Policy Elections Social Issues Cultural Commentary
  1. There is a Q&A session where people can ask questions and get answers from experts. It's a good chance to learn more about specific topics.
  2. Viewers are encouraged to leave their queries in the comments so they can be discussed later. This makes it interactive and engaging.
  3. Subscription options are available for more content, including a free trial for new users. This allows people to explore more without immediate commitment.

Bluesky is the Last Thing America Needs

I Might Be Wrong • 14 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Social media Progressivism Media Criticism Cultural Commentary
  1. Bluesky, a social media platform, is gaining users from Twitter, especially among left-leaning people. But some think it isn't a good alternative for healthy political discussion.
  2. The platform is criticized for being overwhelming with progressive views, comparing it to being on a wild drug trip. This suggests that it might not be beneficial to political discourse.
  3. The future of social media is uncertain, especially for Twitter, as people keep searching for better platforms. However, Bluesky might not be the answer many are looking for.

The Troll School of Literature

Castalia • 2238 implied HN points • 30 Jul 24
📚 Literature Criticism Publishing Fiction Reviews Cultural Commentary
  1. Some writers gain fame not for their talent, but for the buzz around them. This can help their books sell, even if the writing isn't good.
  2. Reviews can sometimes fail to criticize bad books, making it harder for readers to know what's worthwhile. Honest reviews are important to point out what really matters.
  3. The idea of just getting attention, regardless of quality, can overshadow real literary talent. It’s easy for readers to get caught up in the hype instead of seeking out good literature.

Were You 'Cancelled'? Or Are You a Sheltered Elite Who Faced Consequences for the First Time In Your Priviledged Life?

JoeWrote • 107 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cancel Culture Political critique Media Analysis Cultural Commentary Social Issues
  1. People often claim they face 'cancel culture' when they actually just face consequences for their actions. It's not about censorship, but about accountability.
  2. Cancel culture discussions mostly come from wealthy individuals who want to avoid facing the same social standards that impact ordinary people. They fear losing their privilege.
  3. The media often exaggerates cancel culture as a threat, diverting attention from real issues like political corruption and social injustices. This creates a false narrative to avoid addressing deeper problems.

Very Weird Ideas About What It Means to Respect Someone's Political Project

Freddie deBoer • 5754 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice Identity politics Political theory Activism Cultural Commentary
  1. The term 'woke' often means caring about other people, but some feel this definition flattens complex ideas about social justice. It can sound condescending when simplified.
  2. Many people work hard to understand and advocate for social justice, and their efforts deserve more respect than just being labeled as 'nice.'
  3. Using praise that oversimplifies someone's political values can be frustrating for those deeply invested in their beliefs, making it feel dismissive rather than supportive.

I Met the Alleged CEO Assassin

The Prism • 1757 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Politics Social Issues Criminal Justice Healthcare Cultural Commentary
  1. The individual named Luigi Mangione, once seen as a nice and thoughtful person, is now accused of murder. This raises questions about how people can show kindness yet still commit terrible acts.
  2. Luigi felt strongly about people losing their sense of agency and believed many were living on autopilot. He was eager to discuss ways to regain control over his life.
  3. There are dangers in attributing blame for societal issues to individuals. The healthcare system is complex, and scapegoating someone doesn't solve the bigger problems at play.

Sock Fury

The Fry Corner • 7174 implied HN points • 05 Apr 24
😂 Humor Emotional Response Everyday life Cultural Commentary Social norms
  1. It's surprising how small things, like losing a sock, can make us extremely angry. We often react strongly to minor annoyances despite having bigger issues in life.
  2. Our emotions can feel imbalanced when we use them on small incidents instead of saving them for significant events or injustices. It's natural to feel deeply about personal things but we may end up emotionally drained for serious matters.
  3. Knowing about global issues can make us feel guilty for our personal frustrations, creating a conflict in how we express our emotions. Balancing awareness of the world's problems with our own feelings is a challenge.

The Tiger Mother Roars Back

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 5907 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Figures Education Media Cultural Commentary Book Publishing
  1. Amy Chua, known for her strict parenting style, faced a lot of backlash when her book came out. Even though she was criticized, she continued to stand by her methods.
  2. J.D. Vance, a former student of Chua, found inspiration in her teachings and later wrote his own successful book, _Hillbilly Elegy_. Their connection shows how mentoring can help shape people's futures.
  3. Chua's influence extends beyond just her students, as her ideas about tough love in parenting resonate with many, sparking discussions about parenting styles and cultural differences.

What Type of Guy is the alleged UHC shooter?

Read Max • 7798 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Social media Gun Violence Cultural Commentary
  1. The suspect, Luigi Mangione, had a surprising mix of influences, not fitting neatly into typical political categories. His online follows included a variety of personalities from pop science to self-improvement.
  2. His worldview combined elements of skepticism about politics, a belief in technology, and personal self-improvement. It suggests he was more focused on rational discussions than extreme ideologies.
  3. Despite this normal-seeming life, there were underlying issues that could lead to extreme actions. A mental break or personal struggles might have played a big role in his violent actions.

In A Time of Compliant Democrats, Resist Like Bill Burr

JoeWrote • 309 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Resistance Movements Far Right Politics Media Critique Cultural Commentary
  1. It's important to point out that some political leaders and their supporters can be ridiculous and untrustworthy. Instead of just debating facts, it's more effective to call out their nonsense directly.
  2. When challenging opposing views, clarity is key. Use straightforward language to make your point and help others see how extreme some ideas are.
  3. Instead of being polite and compromising with those who hold harmful views, focus on resisting their ideas and building a strong community to support positive change.

Animating in Present Tense

Animation Obsessive • 7355 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Animation Visual art Film Music Cultural Commentary
  1. Sasha Svirsky is a self-taught animator who values improvisation over traditional rules. He creates unique animations by following his feelings, resulting in lively and often chaotic films.
  2. His work touches on important themes like oppression and the impact of war, often reflecting real-world events. Svirsky's art resonates deeply with viewers and highlights pressing issues.
  3. In animation news, the European co-production system continues to produce noteworthy films, such as 'Kensuke’s Kingdom,' which is a nostalgic adventure tale with a memorable score that emphasizes emotional storytelling.

Animating Out of Spite

Animation Obsessive • 8700 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Animation Film Cultural Commentary Visual Arts
  1. Fyodor Khitruk created a 50-second animated film called Othello-67 as a response to a contest requirement that frustrated him. It humorously condenses Shakespeare's play into a fast-paced experience.
  2. The film critiques the idea of simplifying complex art into quick bites, showing that lots of meaning can still fit into a short time frame.
  3. Despite being a small part of Khitruk's body of work, Othello-67 stands out for its creativity and humor, proving that even short animations can leave a lasting impact.

An Ocean of Pain and Death

Looking Through the Past • 178 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Art history Visual Culture Cultural Commentary
  1. Ernst Friedrich's book 'War Against War!' aimed to show the harsh realities of war, pushing people to rethink their views on conflict. He believed that by confronting the true impacts of war, society could work towards lasting peace.
  2. Artists throughout history, like Goya and Picasso, have used their work to express the horrors of war, presenting it not as glorious but as tragic. Their art serves as a reminder of the suffering that war brings to individuals and communities.
  3. The anti-war art movement highlights the need to see the brutal consequences of conflict, encouraging people to think critically about war and its effects on humanity. Recognizing these realities can help prevent future wars.

Things to argue about over the holidays instead of politics III

DYNOMIGHT INTERNET NEWSLETTER • 937 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Social Behavior Cultural Commentary
  1. It's fun to argue about small, everyday topics instead of serious issues like politics around the holidays. These lighthearted debates can bring laughter and connection.
  2. Questions about cultural differences, like how we enjoy music or food, can spark interesting conversations. Exploring these topics helps us understand each other better.
  3. Discussions about abstract ideas, such as consciousness or the nature of reality, can make for deep and thought-provoking talks. It's a great way to share perspectives and learn something new.

The Greatest Love...

Seven Senses • 339 implied HN points • 19 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Friendship Relationships Society Personal Growth Cultural Commentary
  1. Friendship is really important and can be more lasting than romantic relationships. Friends give us support and joy throughout our lives.
  2. As we grow older, friendships change but can still be very meaningful. We might not spend as much time with friends, but the connections can get deeper with age.
  3. Friendship breakups can be really painful, and it's natural for friendships to move closer or further apart over time. It's okay for relationships to evolve and still hold love.

Rich People Food, Daydreaming, Broken Windows

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 2045 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social Status Psychology Human Relationships Cultural Commentary
  1. Men run faster than women in short races, but women start to catch up in longer ones. It's interesting to see how endurance plays a role in racing.
  2. Happy relationships, especially in marriage, are super important for a fulfilling life as we age. Staying connected with loved ones really matters.
  3. People who are open to new experiences often do quirky things like eating spicy food for breakfast and daydreaming for fun. Being open-minded can lead to a pretty cool day.

The Bric-a-Brac

Disaffected Newsletter • 899 implied HN points • 01 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legal issues Social Issues Political Commentary Media Critique Cultural Commentary
  1. The idea of 'standing' means someone has to be affected by an issue to bring it to court. But in everyday life, anyone can talk about any issue, even if they aren't directly affected.
  2. When people start to realize uncomfortable truths, like those on the left feeling shocked, it may take time for them to process it. They might struggle to accept what they've known deep down.
  3. It's okay to feel close to your community without needing to feel afraid. Trusting your friends and being open about your feelings is important.

Why I Despair

Disaffected Newsletter • 3397 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Political divide Public Health Mental health Cultural Commentary
  1. Many people have strong beliefs about issues like immigration and health that seem crazy or bigoted to others. This creates a deep divide with real consequences for individuals and communities.
  2. There's a feeling of despair because even reasonable objections to these beliefs are not recognized. People feel isolated and powerless when their concerns are dismissed.
  3. The writer reflects on their own past beliefs and recognizes that those on the other side are not inherently evil or stupid. Understanding this helps to cope with the despair about the current state of society.

People Play Games Without Knowing It

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 965 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Social Dynamics Human behavior Game Theory Psychology Cultural Commentary
  1. People often engage in social dynamics and strategies without realizing it. This can affect how they interact with others.
  2. Competition can lead to people playing games for rewards, but sometimes they keep playing long after it's beneficial to them.
  3. Understanding these hidden games can help people navigate social situations more effectively.

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.

Clownfish Carnival

Disaffected Newsletter • 879 implied HN points • 26 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Criminal Justice Media Analysis Social Issues Psychology Cultural Commentary
  1. Some states are changing how we label criminals, calling them 'justice-impacted individuals' instead. This shift might confuse the moral understanding of victims and criminals.
  2. A new NBC documentary called 'Queer Planet' is being discussed, which features people talking about gender and sex. A psychoanalyst will explore what this means for our society.
  3. There's concern about the younger generation lacking proper upbringing or 'home training.' People wonder how this will affect society in the future.

The Meme Fossil Record

Kneeling Bus • 381 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Memes Internet Social media Cultural Commentary
  1. Memes can live on longer than expected, like Hawk Tuah, which has become a part of our culture even as social media changes. People may not forget them easily, showing how our online history keeps coming back.
  2. The blending of natural and manmade elements, like plastiglomerate, reflects how our digital content also mixes elements from the past and present. This process creates a new kind of cultural landscape shaped by everything that has come before.
  3. As we interact more with AI and technology, we might feel like we're stuck in a loop of consuming the same content repeatedly. This could impact how we express ourselves and might lead to a feeling of overload from the internet.

Status Anxiety and Social Class

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1856 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Social Status Belief systems Class dynamics Education Cultural Commentary
  1. Luxury beliefs are ideas that make rich people feel good but hurt poorer people. For example, some wealthy folks support defunding the police, but the poor are the ones who suffer when crime rates rise.
  2. Elite schools now look for essays about overcoming hardship instead of using standardized tests, which can unfairly favor rich applicants who know how to present their stories well.
  3. There’s a tension in how colleges want to see both ambition and victimhood. Some students might exaggerate their struggles to fit in, which can dilute the experiences of those who truly face hardship.