The hottest Cultural Commentary Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Friday Funnies: Don't Eat That

Who is Robert Malone • 41 implied HN points • 07 Nov 25
😂 Humor Cultural Commentary
  1. Laughter can be hard to find during tough times, but it's important to try and find some humor. A good laugh can lighten the mood and help us cope with challenges.
  2. Sometimes, the most memorable jokes come from unexpected places or events, reminding us to keep an open mind. Embracing the unexpected can lead to funny moments.
  3. It's okay to feel mixed emotions about certain public figures or events. Finding a balance in our feelings about these situations can be a part of the healing process.

In A Time of Compliant Democrats, Resist Like Bill Burr

JoeWrote • 309 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics 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.

The Meme Fossil Record

Kneeling Bus • 381 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture 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.

Sunday Strip: Duck!

Who is Robert Malone • 31 implied HN points • 23 Nov 25
😂 Humor Cultural Commentary
  1. It's important to take cover and protect yourself when facing challenges or uncertainty. Staying safe should always be a priority.
  2. Being proactive and prepared can help you navigate difficult situations more effectively. It's better to be ready before problems arise.
  3. Emphasizing community and support can make facing challenges easier. Having others around can provide comfort and assistance.

Why Taylor Swift, the Beatles, and Nirvana are overrated

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 356 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🎶 Music Cultural Commentary
  1. Some popular musicians like Taylor Swift, the Beatles, and Nirvana might not be as great as people think. It's okay to have different opinions about music.
  2. Drummers have a unique way of creating many sounds with just a few basic elements, similar to how Taco Bell mixes its ingredients.
  3. The experience of listening to music has changed over time, especially with DJs taking a more prominent role in performances. Now, people often watch the DJ instead of just dancing with each other.
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The Green Party MP and the cosy connection to a "radical right-wing Christian fascist"

A B’Old Woman • 299 implied HN points • 13 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural Commentary
  1. Julie Anne Genter, a Green Party MP, cycled to the hospital to give birth, showing her determination and strength. It's a unique story that highlights the lengths some people will go to during important life moments.
  2. The origins of the bicycle may be tied to European inventors, and some of their beliefs may not align with modern views on gender. This raises questions about how we view historical figures today.
  3. The use of terms like 'radical right-wing Christian fascist' can become common in certain circles, which might create barriers in discussions. It's important to be aware of how language can influence our understanding of different beliefs and opinions.

New name, musings, and my favorite recent reads.

Neckar’s Notes • 96 implied HN points • 25 Jul 25
📚 Literature Cultural Commentary
  1. It's okay to feel anxious or lost sometimes, especially during tough times. Sitting with those feelings can help us understand ourselves better.
  2. Writing can be a powerful way to connect with our authentic selves and find truth. It's important to seek out unique voices in a world filled with similar content.
  3. Engaging with nature and thoughtful reading can help us reflect and recharge. Taking time to disconnect from distractions can lead to personal growth.

Hinternet Production Labs — An Audio Launch Event!

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 311 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🎙 Podcasts Cultural Commentary
  1. Hinternet Production Labs has released a new audio project called 'Chatbient chill-out,' combining chatbot conversations and ambient music for a unique listening experience.
  2. The project mixes chatbots with philosophical topics, using AI VoiceOver technology, appealing to those looking for background audio in today's busy world.
  3. Critics and fans have engaged deeply with the work, appreciating both its imperfections and the unexpected moments, which challenge our understanding of reality and art.

Mankeeping? No, it's gender defending

Sex and the State • 85 implied HN points • 30 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural Commentary
  1. The concept of 'mankeeping' shows how loneliness impacts men more than women, and it's often women who feel the burden of this loneliness.
  2. Media coverage on male loneliness sometimes shifts focus away from men's needs, emphasizing how it affects their partners instead, which misses the main issue.
  3. There seems to be a bias in how these topics are reported, often reinforcing existing social norms rather than challenging them for more meaningful change.

DRAFT NOTES on "Grab 'Em by the Pussy" for January 20, 2025

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 246 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural Commentary
  1. Right-wing young men should realize that bravado and aggression won't help them succeed. Instead, they need emotional intelligence and collaboration skills.
  2. Emulating wealthy individuals who use rude language can lead to serious consequences. It’s essential for young men to understand that being viewed negatively can limit their future connections.
  3. Focusing solely on making money without considering social goals can create shallow relationships. Real success involves more than just financial gain; it's about building genuine connections.

Essay Club: Fragments From an Education by Christopher Hitchens

Mind & Mythos • 99 implied HN points • 27 Jan 24
📚 Literature Cultural Commentary
  1. Christopher Hitchens was a known writer and debater with strong opinions. He wasn't afraid to challenge the mainstream views of his time.
  2. In his essay, he shares personal reflections on education. He looks at how his life experiences shaped his understanding of learning.
  3. Hitchens combines humor and deep thoughts in his writing. His style makes even complex ideas easier for readers to grasp.

LGB vs TQIAXYZ+

bad cattitude • 296 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural Commentary
  1. Many people feel that the conversation around gender identity has become overly political, impacting how it is discussed in schools and public spaces. They believe that not everyone agrees with this approach and see it as a forced ideology.
  2. There is a concern that the push for acceptance has alienated some within the LGBTQ community, particularly those who identify as LGB, and that they feel their voices are being overshadowed by discussions of gender identity.
  3. The emphasis should be on character and personal choices rather than identity alone, and there is a call for individuals to focus on living happy lives without being tied down by labels.

10 good books I read this winter

Austin Kleon • 859 implied HN points • 25 Mar 22
📚 Literature Cultural Commentary
  1. Reading can be a fun adventure. Picking books based on your mood is a great way to enjoy them more.
  2. Exploring different topics, like biking, can provide useful and enjoyable insights. It's refreshing to dive into subjects that excite you.
  3. Talking about tough subjects, like death, is important. It helps us understand and cope with our feelings better.

Chinese Hip Hop Annual Roundup

ChinaTalk • 296 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🎶 Music Cultural Commentary
  1. Chinese hip-hop is evolving with many talented artists emerging. The scene has a mix of both mainstream stars and underground talent.
  2. Streaming platforms like NetEase Music play a crucial role in introducing listeners to a variety of Chinese rap, especially from underground artists who may not be on bigger platforms like Spotify.
  3. Lyrical content in Chinese hip-hop can cover serious topics, including social issues and personal struggles, but artists must be careful due to censorship in China.

When Hell freezes over and Tolstoy learns to skate

The Lifeboat • 195 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
📚 Literature Cultural Commentary
  1. The painting 'The Devil skating when Hell freezes over' has a confusing history, with two artists named John Collier possibly involved. It raises questions about the truth of art and how things can get mixed up over time.
  2. Leo Tolstoy enjoyed skating and even learned it in his 60s. He brought joy to children by teaching them how to skate, seeing it as a kind of spiritual enlightenment.
  3. The conversation about whether Tolstoy could be depicted as the Devil highlights the blend of reality and myth in Russian literature. It questions how society views good and evil and whether everyone has a bit of both within them.

the american order

bad cattitude • 222 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural Commentary
  1. A constitution is just a set of rules on paper. For it to matter, people need to truly believe in and practice its ideas.
  2. America is not just an idea or a place; it's a specific way of life that includes values and expectations that have allowed people to flourish.
  3. We need to be careful about how we defend American values. Fighting for them shouldn't go against the very principles we believe in and should not lead to treating newcomers poorly.

Book Review: On The Edge, Nate Silver

Matt’s Five Points • 8 HN points • 02 Aug 24
📚 Literature Cultural Commentary
  1. Nate Silver's new book talks about people who think differently about risk. Some see it as something to avoid, while others embrace it and try to win big, especially in areas like gambling and tech.
  2. The book highlights two groups: the 'Riverians,' who love taking risks and making calculated bets, and the 'Villagers,' who prefer safe choices and stability. These different mindsets clash in various fields like politics and business.
  3. Silver also raises concerns about how risk-taking can lead to serious problems, especially with things like AI development. He asks if focusing too much on maximizing expected value might overlook important human issues.

Fridge poems

Austin Kleon • 739 implied HN points • 05 Apr 22
📚 Literature Cultural Commentary
  1. Fridge poems are special poems that we feel connected to and want to display in our homes. They represent what matters to us and can remind us of important thoughts or feelings.
  2. The refrigerator holds a unique place in our homes as a space to celebrate memories and creativity, often decorated with personal items like drawings and photos. It’s like a public gallery for our family's stories.
  3. Steel refrigerators that aren’t magnetic can take away this personal touch, making it harder to showcase meaningful things. Choosing a magnetic fridge allows us to keep that tradition alive and foster connections through art and words.

Nevédomosti №2

The Lifeboat • 172 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
📚 Literature Cultural Commentary
  1. The author has a new book called 'Deleted Scenes from the Bestselling Utopian Novel' that's doing well on Reedsy Discovery. They encourage readers to upvote it for better visibility.
  2. They recently participated in a zine fair in London where their book was stocked in a bookshop, expanding its physical reach to readers.
  3. The author discovered a new favorite writer, Valeria Narbikova, whose work deeply resonates with them. They feel a strong urge to share Narbikova's work with others after her recent passing.

The Work of Stagnation

Oliver Bateman Does the Work • 98 implied HN points • 09 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Cultural Commentary
  1. Shows like 'The Simpsons' and 'Saturday Night Live' have become ingrained in American pop culture but need to evolve to stay relevant.
  2. Even long-running shows like 'The Simpsons' can adapt to modern societal expectations and remain fresh and engaging.
  3. Paid subscriptions to content creators like Oliver Bateman support critical discourse and thoughtful analysis of various topics.

Curator

Castalia • 219 implied HN points • 13 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Cultural Commentary
  1. The conversation about race and liberalism is complex. Many believe that liberal ideals may not address the deeper issues of racism that affect black identity.
  2. Safety culture and equity language can limit real conversations and understanding. This trend is seen as creating a divide rather than genuinely improving communication.
  3. The rise of alternative cultural spaces, like Substack, shows that there is a thriving creative world outside of traditional publishing. People are becoming more open to exploring diverse voices and ideas.

Born in the U.S.A.: The Protest Song America Misheard

American Dreaming • 123 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎶 Music Cultural Commentary
  1. Bruce Springsteen's song 'Born in the U.S.A.' is often misinterpreted as a patriotic anthem, but it actually critiques the treatment of Vietnam veterans and the struggles of the working class. Many listeners missed the deeper message behind the catchy tune.
  2. The album marked a significant shift in Springsteen's career, transforming him from a niche artist into a global superstar. Despite its success, the themes of economic decline and social injustice resonated more with a dedicated audience than the general public.
  3. Springsteen has expressed ongoing frustration with the way politicians, especially Ronald Reagan, used his music to promote a misleading narrative. He aimed to raise awareness about the American Dream's failures, which remains relevant today.

WEEKLY BRIEFLY NOTED: For 2025-01-06 Mo

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 130 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural Commentary
  1. Educational approaches should blend economic theories with historical context. This helps students grasp how past events shape current economic systems.
  2. To tackle gender disparities in birth rates, changing perceptions about motherhood and fatherhood is essential. Men need to support women more in their roles both at work and home.
  3. Inflation isn't solely linked to government spending; the Federal Reserve plays a significant role in managing it. Digital and global economic shifts complicate how we analyze these financial factors.

sunday memepool: lighten up

bad cattitude • 107 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
😂 Humor Cultural Commentary
  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.

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 Cultural Commentary
  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.

On Literary Careerism

Castalia • 159 implied HN points • 11 Apr 23
📚 Literature Cultural Commentary
  1. Careerism in writing means that many authors focus more on their professional image than on genuine creativity. This leads to writing that feels bland and lacks boldness.
  2. To be a true writer, you need to express your honest self and not get caught up in how you are perceived. Writing should be an extension of who you are, not just a job.
  3. Many contemporary authors, influenced by a careerist mindset, often miss the chance to speak out on important issues, unlike past writers who felt compelled to share their truths actively.

TIME 100 and Podcast Graveyard Rage Bait

House of Strauss • 42 implied HN points • 24 Jul 25
🎙 Podcasts Cultural Commentary
  1. A recent list of the 100 best podcasts by Time Magazine sparked a lot of discussion online, mostly negative. People are surprised that it didn’t include popular shows like Joe Rogan.
  2. Podcasts are very personal and often forgotten quickly, making it hard for them to leave a lasting impression. Many great shows just fade away, similar to old relationships.
  3. The reaction to the Time list shows a desire for cultural artifacts that we can connect with and remember. There's a feeling that many things today feel disposable and lack lasting significance.

On Following

Castalia • 139 implied HN points • 18 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Cultural Commentary
  1. The word 'follower' is important today because it shapes how we see social media and the people we follow. It can mean being part of a group or just going along with what others do.
  2. Following someone online can go deeper than just liking their posts. It can be about looking for meaning or connection, similar to a journey of belief or personal growth.
  3. As society changes, people might form smaller, more personal groups or communities instead of sticking to one big idea or belief. This can lead to a mix of different views on what is truly important in life.

The Common Listener

Dada Drummer Almanach • 120 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🎶 Music Cultural Commentary
  1. Music recommendations can be a fun way to explore new sounds. They don't have to follow a strict 'best of' list; just enjoy what you like.
  2. Listening to music should be for your own enjoyment, not just what critics or charts say is popular. Everyone has different tastes.
  3. You can connect music to your personal experiences and moments in life, like what you were cooking or doing at the time.

Did Jacinda Ardern inspect David Seymour’s genitals before calling him “an arrogant prick”?

A B’Old Woman • 199 implied HN points • 15 Dec 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural Commentary
  1. Using the word 'prick' is traditionally aimed at men, and it raises questions about assumptions made about gender. The author humorously suggests that if someone might not present as male, should we be cautious about our language?
  2. The idea of needing to inspect someone's genitals to determine their gender is highlighted as absurd. Many believe we can recognize gender based on social cues and experiences.
  3. There’s a conflict in how society views gender and language, especially when it comes to terms that might seem offensive or outdated. The piece stresses that understanding gender requires more than just looking at physical traits.

TERF Club!

A B’Old Woman • 199 implied HN points • 20 Nov 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural Commentary
  1. TERF Club cards are being spotted in public places, creating buzz and discussion online. It's interesting how a simple card can spark such strong reactions.
  2. The term 'TERF Club' originated from a casual tweet and has been turned into a movement by a dedicated team. It shows how a small idea can grow into something bigger.
  3. The cards not only promote the TERF message but also guide people to more information on related events. It's a clever way to engage people who find the cards.

So Much "Succession" 

SatPost by Trung Phan • 79 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics 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.

On journalism's dishonesty and moral rot

Unreported Truths • 99 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cultural Commentary
  1. Some media outlets may not clearly condemn violent actions, leading to mixed messages about serious crime. For example, a writer seemed unsure if a murdered executive deserved sympathy.
  2. The way people are described in news articles can reflect biases and affect public perception. Terms like 'subway dancer' and 'ex-marine' can shape how stories are understood.
  3. There's a growing skepticism toward mainstream media, with more people turning to social media for different perspectives. This shift is making traditional news sources seem less relevant.

Confronting Hereditary Talent and Its Social Consequences

Holodoxa • 99 implied HN points • 14 Mar 23
📚 Literature Cultural Commentary
  1. In his book _The Cult of Smart_, Fredrik deBoer argues against the notion that intelligence defines human worth, highlighting how society disproportionately rewards the academically gifted.
  2. DeBoer challenges the blank slate ideology, emphasizing the influence of genetic variation on cognitive traits over social or environmental factors, leading to implications in education and policy.
  3. DeBoer proposes societal reforms like universal healthcare and basic income to address the unequal distribution of inherited talents, challenging the idea of meritocracy as the ultimate goal for a fair society.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 79 implied HN points • 22 Jun 23
📚 Literature Cultural Commentary
  1. Kelly Link's book blends fairy tales with modern life, creating enchanting stories that follow unique rules. Her writing shows how fantasy can express complex human emotions in a relatable way.
  2. Shehan Karunatilaka's novel explores the afterlife in a war-torn Sri Lanka, focusing on a man's struggle between seeking revenge or moving on. It highlights the chaos and disillusionment of life and death in a corrupt society.
  3. Both authors challenge traditional storytelling by exploring themes of human relationships, morality, and the struggle for meaning amid chaos. Their work encourages readers to think about how imagination and reality intertwine.

Tibor Dieters: Pol/der vriens

Do Not Research • 39 implied HN points • 30 Nov 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Cultural Commentary
  1. Many people are turning to the online world for answers due to an uncertain future, leading to the emergence of fringe political identities and online communities that can potentially escalate into radicalization.
  2. The Netherlands has witnessed a rise in fringe political identities, influenced by the mishandling of a global pandemic, which has highlighted the deep-rooted connection between online culture and the broader societal psyche.
  3. The project _pol/der (vriens)_ explores how conspiracy theories can become collective myths, shaping culture and politics by materializing online imagery into tangible representations.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 159 implied HN points • 29 Sep 22
📚 Literature Cultural Commentary
  1. Sheila Heti's book 'Pure Colour' has received mixed reviews, with some finding it a clever commentary and others critiquing it for being confusing or poorly written. Critics debate whether it's serious art or just an attempt at being different.
  2. Thomas Ricks' 'First Principles' explores how the founding fathers were influenced by classical history, particularly Roman models, in shaping the United States. He argues that their belief in these examples shaped their political actions and ideals.
  3. Ricks highlights that the founders often acted as if they were living out a fiction based on their classical inspirations. Their idealism, while sometimes misguided, plays a crucial role in American civic life and governance.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 159 implied HN points • 01 Sep 22
📚 Literature Cultural Commentary
  1. Jhumpa Lahiri's book 'Whereabouts' talks about how tough it is to face aging and life without clear meaning. It cleverly uses small complaints to reflect deeper issues about life and acceptance.
  2. Jenny Odell's 'How To Do Nothing' encourages people to focus on their surroundings and disconnect from technology. It's about finding joy in simple activities, but some find her ideas a bit overly idealistic or boring.
  3. Both authors explore how to cope with life's difficulties, but they take different approaches. Lahiri highlights personal struggles, while Odell promotes community and mindfulness.

The Greatest Piece of AI Art

Marginally Compelling • 24 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Cultural Commentary
  1. AI can be a helpful tool for speeding up creative projects and making art, but it also raises big questions about our future.
  2. One important AI art piece is a completion of Keith Haring's unfinished work, which reveals deeper messages about art and technology.
  3. This artwork makes us think about our relationship with AI and what we value in art and creativity.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 22 Jul 22
📚 Literature Cultural Commentary
  1. Tommy Orange's book 'There There' is praised by many, but it also has critics who find its writing bad. There’s a debate over whether the acclaim it received is deserved.
  2. Jaron Lanier's 'You Are Not A Gadget' critiques how the internet has changed society for the worse. He argues that the tech industry's ideals often hurt real human connections.
  3. Both authors highlight serious issues—Orange with Native American narratives and Lanier with digital culture. They suggests that being truthful isn't enough; good writing and meaningful expression matter too.