The hottest Essays Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Literature Topics

I am the poet (ode to Walt Whitman)

Tumbleweed Words • 31 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
📚 Literature Essays
  1. The poet expresses a deep connection with nature and reality. They feel the beauty and truth in the world around them, like the song of a bird.
  2. The poet understands the relationship between human experiences and nature. They highlight the balance between warmth and loss in human interactions.
  3. There is a recognition of personal growth and change. The poet reflects on overcoming past scorn to embrace new virtues and ideas.

The Grand Tour - Holiday Break

On Looking • 59 implied HN points • 03 Jun 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Essays
  1. The Grand Tour was a historical educational journey undertaken by young men from wealthy families to acquire cultural knowledge through firsthand experiences of classical artworks in Europe.
  2. The author's modern version of the Grand Tour involves networking with fellow artists in New York to create shared experiences and a sense of union beyond online interactions.
  3. The author is considering switching this newsletter to a bi-monthly schedule to dedicate more time to research and writing better essays, focusing on topics like colors, illustration AI, and exposure.

Oops!

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 2 implied HN points • 28 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Essays
  1. A missing video link was acknowledged and the link was added afterward.
  2. A profile image, a name, and a date appear with the post to show who is associated and when it was published.
  3. The page includes sharing and navigation elements like 'Share' and 'Previous/Next', indicating it's part of a web-post interface.

Thanksgiving | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 28 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Thanksgiving is a time for gathering and feasting. Families come together to enjoy a meal and share moments.
  2. The poem highlights the beauty of nature and the harvest. It mentions picking fruits and being thankful for the food we have.
  3. There's a reflection on tradition and history. It reminds us of the importance of gratitude for connections to the past and each other.

January 2023 Update

Mind & Mythos • 39 implied HN points • 03 Jan 23
📚 Literature Essays
  1. The author started their writing project in 2022 and is pleased with the work done so far.
  2. They want to improve their productivity in 2023 by sharing monthly updates to stay accountable.
  3. The updates will be posted on the first Friday of each month to track progress and keep engaged with readers.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Reading, Watching 11.03.24

Unpopular Front • 28 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
📚 Literature Essays
  1. The controversy around using the term 'fascism' to describe Trump shows differing views on political threats today. Some argue it doesn’t quite fit our current situation.
  2. There is a debate about how historical contexts of fascism apply today, especially concerning the role of the left in political upheaval.
  3. The left today feels both ignored and targeted, raising questions about its true influence and significance in current politics.

D is for Daumal

Castalia • 39 implied HN points • 19 Dec 22
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Réné Daumal was a curious thinker who explored life and consciousness through unique experiments, seeking to understand deeper truths. He believed there was more to existence beyond everyday life, similar to experiences reported by those who have near-death experiences.
  2. Daumal had a strong connection with Eastern philosophies and sought knowledge from various spiritual teachings. His dedication led him to create and engage in groups that focused on exploring consciousness and self-discovery.
  3. His book, _Mount Analogue_, symbolizes a journey towards understanding higher truths. It mixes reality with imaginative adventures, showing his belief that through exploration, both physical and spiritual, we can find meaning in life.

truth is we all have it | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 24 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Everyone has their own struggles and burdens in life. It's important to recognize what those are for yourself.
  2. Many people get overwhelmed by their needs and desires, almost like a deep hunger.
  3. Understanding who you are and why you make certain choices can help you deal with your personal challenges better.

on the evening of my birth | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 21 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
📚 Literature Essays
  1. The poem reflects on childhood memories in a garden, connecting personal growth with nature.
  2. It highlights the importance of simple wishes for safety, food, and shelter in raising a family.
  3. The imagery of climbing trees and counting stars emphasizes a journey of discovery and belonging.

It grows | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 21 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
📚 Literature Essays
  1. The poem talks about something that grows strong even without roots. It suggests resilience and strength in being different.
  2. There's a mention of a 'monster' that goes unnoticed but still makes its presence felt. This could mean that some things have a big impact even if they're not seen.
  3. It feels like the poem is encouraging us to accept things that don't fit in, showing that they can have their own importance and meaning.

Coming soon

The Oswald Spengler Project • 39 implied HN points • 30 Jul 22
📚 Literature Essays
  1. The newsletter 'The Oswald Spengler Project' focuses on notes, translations, and essays on the collected works of Oswald Spengler.
  2. The newsletter is hosted on spergler.substack.com.
  3. The 'Coming soon' message indicates that the content is not yet available but will be coming in the future.

Sartre's Stratagem

Euro Desk Paris • 19 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Sartre provocatively claimed people were most free during German occupation
  2. Sartre challenges conventional thoughts on freedom and authenticity
  3. Consider revisiting Sartre's works for his profound, innovative perspectives and unique style

Emigrant

KERFUFFLE • 19 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Traveling at night can be essential in tough environments, like deserts, where daytime heat is unbearable. It allows explorers to avoid the worst conditions and push on.
  2. Survival often depends on reaching resources like water and food as quickly as possible. Delaying for comfort could lead to danger or death.
  3. The journey can be all-consuming, making it difficult to think about anything except immediate survival. The past and future fade away, focusing only on the present challenges.

Jeff's Journey to Clarity

Bet On It • 50 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🎙 Podcasts Essays
  1. Jeff is the first guest on 'Jeff's Journey to Clarity' podcast.
  2. They discuss non-conformism, immigration, AI, and more.
  3. Jeff is interested in being a guest on inaugural episodes of lesser-known shows.

Questions about Questions

polymathematics • 19 implied HN points • 29 Jun 23
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Questions can lead to deeper thinking and understanding. It's important to ask the right questions to explore a topic thoroughly.
  2. External influences like a good book or song can inspire creativity. Sometimes, a simple change in our environment can spark new ideas.
  3. Writing can be a great way to reflect on thoughts and feelings. Putting ideas down on paper helps clarify and develop them further.

Talking Non-Conformism with Carlos

Bet On It • 45 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Essays
  1. Non-conformism can be a mix of common sense and eccentricity, different from conformism which was more functional in the past than in today's world.
  2. Despite the appeal of non-conformism, conformism is the norm, possibly due to its historical functionality.
  3. The shift from functional conformism in ancestral environments to the complexity of non-conformism in modern society indicates changing societal needs.

My North Thames Gas saga

Eclecticism: Reflections on literature, writing and life • 6 implied HN points • 06 Jul 25
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Bureaucracy can be really frustrating, especially when dealing with customer service. It often feels like you're stuck in a complicated system.
  2. Even a bad experience from the past, like with a gas company, can leave lasting anxiety. It shows how past issues can affect future interactions.
  3. It's important to reflect on these experiences to understand how they shape our feelings and responses now. Sharing stories can help us connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

a message of hope | must reads

Tumbleweed Words • 14 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
📚 Literature Essays
  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.

On the Homesick

Anna Gát: Eleven Sentence Essays • 87 implied HN points • 15 Feb 23
📚 Literature Essays
  1. The author is writing a book about turning 40 and reflects on the millennial generation being middle-aged.
  2. There is a sense of homesickness and longing for the past among the generation discussed.
  3. The author muses on the lack of identity and sense of belonging in this generation.

recommendations

Nice Try • 39 implied HN points • 29 Aug 22
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Reading can be a community experience. Finding another person's notes in a book can spark a connection, and even lead to creative projects like podcasts.
  2. Exploring different cultures through literature can be eye-opening. Reading classical texts like 'The Odyssey' and 'Tao Te Ching' helps understand different philosophies and life lessons.
  3. It's important to balance life and creativity. Engaging with stories while also finding ways to be present can enhance our understanding and give peace in a busy world.

a lifelong partnership | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 14 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Long-term relationships often carry a sense of stability and permanence. It's nice to grow old together and reflect on life's journey.
  2. As couples age, they start to ponder deeper questions about their lives. They might think more about what really matters to them.
  3. Even after many years, love can feel fresh and impactful. The bond formed can leave lasting impressions, like a swan gliding gracefully on water.

Talking Non-Conformism With Kaufman

Bet On It • 30 implied HN points • 29 Feb 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Essays
  1. Chris Kaufman is interviewed on the topic of non-conformism in the book 'You Will Not Stampede Me: Essays on Non-Conformism'
  2. Chris Kaufman is recognized for interviewing the author on all five of his essay collections
  3. The author finds joy in talking with Chris Kaufman and hopes readers will enjoy the interview too

a defender of people | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 10 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
📚 Literature Essays
  1. The poem reflects on the bond between friends, showing how shared experiences are important in friendship. It captures moments of connection, like watching each other and being present in tough times.
  2. There's a sense of nostalgia and growth as the speaker mentions their friend changing over time, from youth to maturity. This highlights how friendships evolve as we age and experience life together.
  3. The imagery used in the poem illustrates the beauty of observation and deep insight into another person’s life. It shows that just witnessing someone can create a powerful impact and foster understanding.

Castles in the Sky's Seven Most Underrated Essays

Castles in the Sky • 10 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Reflecting on past essays can be a valuable exercise for writers and bloggers. It helps them see how their style has changed and what topics resonate with their audience.
  2. Understanding fatherhood often teaches important lessons about self-care and responsibility. Writers can convey deep emotions through relatable experiences with family.
  3. Exploring complex ideas in a simple way can lead to misunderstandings, so it's essential to keep an open mind. Just because something is hard to explain doesn't mean it's wrong or unworthy.

On Quitting Spotify

Reboot • 38 implied HN points • 21 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Essays
  1. The author explores quitting Spotify in favor of CDs & radio for a more intentional listening experience.
  2. The obsession with frictionless algorithms on streaming platforms may limit the diversity and depth of music discovery.
  3. Diversifying music consumption with CDs, radio, and live performances can offer unique, fulfilling listening experiences.

I have a book coming out!

Notes from a Small Press • 27 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
📚 Literature Essays
  1. The book 'Best of the Rust Belt' features personal essays from a region often labeled the Rust Belt, showcasing diverse perspectives and voices.
  2. The book aims to shift the narrative of the Rust Belt region, moving away from stereotypical coverage during election cycles to more nuanced, authentic storytelling.
  3. The creation of the book was a collaborative effort involving multiple editors, writers, and contributors, emphasizing the importance of community and collective storytelling.

From "Modern Love" to Selling a Memoir

The Fairest Writer • 79 implied HN points • 26 Jan 21
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Writing about personal struggles can help others understand their own issues. Facing uncomfortable topics can lead to healing and growth.
  2. Survival training teaches us to trust ourselves and understand our needs. It's about more than just food; it's about connection to nature and community.
  3. Exploring our past and the relationships we have with family can help us find our true selves. Nature can be a way to reconnect with who we are and what we really need.

Why I didn't wear a tie

Eclecticism: Reflections on literature, writing and life • 10 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
📚 Literature Essays
  1. The author decided not to wear a tie this year at a family New Year party, breaking a long-standing tradition.
  2. This decision was influenced by a family member's recent serious health scare, which made the author want to feel less formal and more connected.
  3. The story highlights how personal and emotional events can change our perspectives and choices about traditions.

long breath of winter | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 10 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Winter can be harsh, with icy winds and difficult conditions. It makes us feel cold and uncomfortable, often stuck indoors.
  2. People seek warmth and comfort during winter. Many gather around fires and enjoy hot drinks to feel cozy.
  3. Despite the challenges of winter, there's a sense of community when people come together. We share warmth and connection even in the cold.

Start the week #89

Eclecticism: Reflections on literature, writing and life • 8 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Teachers can have a big impact on our lives. One teacher taught lessons that stayed with me long after class ended.
  2. Exploring poetry can be really meaningful. A poet's words can connect deeply to experiences like love or historical events.
  3. Sharing different writing techniques can help people express themselves better. Teaching a writing course can inspire creativity and improve skills.

Doors Close, Doors Open

Reactionary Feminist • 23 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Essays
  1. The newsletter community has grown significantly over the past few years.
  2. The author plans to increase conversation and publish more in-depth essays.
  3. Readers are encouraged to write and contribute to the newsletter.

Letter to Rebecca #25-01

Eclecticism: Reflections on literature, writing and life • 7 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
📚 Literature Essays
  1. The writer prefers quiet moments after the holiday rush, finding joy in low-key family gatherings rather than loud celebrations. It's okay to cherish solitude and more subdued experiences.
  2. The writer enjoys exploring new readings and has subscribed to a newsletter even without reading the articles yet, showing they value the publisher's reputation. Discovering new things can happen even before diving deep into them.
  3. There's humor in everyday situations, like using cleaning as an excuse to exercise, reminding us that we can find fun and creativity in mundane tasks. Life is what you make of it, even while doing chores!

Essays on writing, life, and my journey.

Neckar’s Notes • 6 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Writing can help us find meaning in difficult experiences. It lets us explore our emotions and transform our pain into something valuable.
  2. Being honest and writing from the heart is important. It helps us connect with ourselves and our readers genuinely.
  3. Life is about the journey, not just the end goal. We should focus on growing and appreciating where we are right now.

My Multitudes

Just Enough to Get Me in Trouble • 29 implied HN points • 29 Apr 23
📚 Literature Essays
  1. The author writes about a variety of personal experiences and reflections, not confined to a specific niche.
  2. The writing covers topics like family, music, career changes, and challenges of being a parent to a child with disabilities.
  3. The author shares insights on writing consistently, dealing with creative challenges, and evolving as a creative writer.

Reading, Watching 02.25.24

Unpopular Front • 15 implied HN points • 25 Feb 24
📚 Literature Essays
  1. The author mentions a new book available for pre-order and promises more self-promotion about it in upcoming posts.
  2. There is a discussion about the historical figure Martin Buber and his views on Zionism, emphasizing his vision of a binational state for Jews and Arabs.
  3. The post is intended for paid subscribers only, indicating exclusive content for those who have subscribed.

The 2023 Summer Reading List

Path Nine • 25 implied HN points • 19 Jun 23
📚 Literature Essays
  1. The PATH NINE Summer Reading List includes books on ambition, quarterlife crises, and reshaping your relationship with time.
  2. Summer reading lists have been around since the late 1800s and aim to prevent 'summer setback' in kids.
  3. The selected books aim to help readers find balance between work, ambition, and life, providing a motivating and enriching read.

Experiments in Style Special Edition

Eclecticism: Reflections on literature, writing and life • 5 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Literary criticism plays an important role in understanding and discussing literature. It helps us explore the complexities of writing and its impact.
  2. The book 'The Secret Miracle' features a character who can read letters without opening them. It uses a unique story structure, which fits into larger literary themes.
  3. The debate over what makes a good writer is complex and subjective. Comparing authors can lead to misunderstandings about literary merit and creativity.

Have a problem? Write an essay

Jeff Giesea • 1 HN point • 13 May 24
📚 Literature Essays
  1. Writing essays can help you process your thoughts and emotions. It feels like going on a journey where you discover what you truly want to say.
  2. Essays are a way to connect with others and share experiences. They can help you feel less alone and create meaningful connections, similar to the friendships formed during a trek.
  3. Writing is a valuable tool for personal growth and understanding. It can lead to new insights and lets you explore your ideas and feelings in depth.