The hottest Fiction Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

McLuhan's Narcissus Trance

Banana Peel Pirouette β€’ 138 implied HN points β€’ 07 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Technology Philosophy Literature Art & Illustration Fiction
  1. Marshall McLuhan's concept of 'the medium is the message' emphasizes that the format of media is more important than the content.
  2. McLuhan discusses the process of 'outering' and 'interiorization' of technology, where tools become externalized human capacities and then integrated into everyday life.
  3. The current digital culture is shaping human interactions and identity by blurring the line between technology and humanity, ultimately leading to a potential future where humanity and technology merge.

"I'm not Korean American. But I had to discover that I wasn't white."

The Recovering Academic β€’ 138 implied HN points β€’ 19 Sep 23
πŸ“š Literature Short Stories Writing Fiction Character development Cultural Identity
  1. The book explores themes of identity and race through multiple generations of a Korean American family, highlighting the complexity and evolution of individual experiences over time.
  2. The collection features a diverse set of narrators, each reflecting different stages of life and unique perspectives, shedding light on the nuanced journey of self-discovery and cultural exploration.
  3. The concluding novella presents a symbolic homecoming and reflects the ongoing process of cultural mixing, emphasizing the interconnectedness of diverse cultures through various time periods.

The Domes of Calrathia

Trantor Publishing β€’ 79 implied HN points β€’ 15 Jan 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Writer Plot Character
  1. The protagonist faces a false accusation and uses strategic thinking to navigate a dangerous situation.
  2. The story highlights themes of deception, manipulation, and power struggles among the characters.
  3. The protagonist uses his wit and experience to outmaneuver his enemies and find a way to untangle himself from a complex situation.

Monday reading #10

well, actually β€’ 137 implied HN points β€’ 11 Sep 23
πŸ“š Literature Books Recommendations Fiction
  1. The author recommends a novel called Terrace Story by Hilary Leichter, describing it as a blend of humor, magical realism, and tenderness.
  2. The novel focuses on a woman named Stephanie who has a unique ability to enlarge spaces with her mind, exploring themes of love, death, loss, and loneliness.
  3. The post is part of a weekly series where the author shares thought-provoking or fascinating recommendations, not necessarily restricted to Mondays.
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The Man in Korea

Soaring Twenties β€’ 146 implied HN points β€’ 19 Feb 24
πŸ“š Literature Short Story Fiction Podcast Writer Human Interaction
  1. The story 'The Man in Korea' revolves around a dramatic encounter in North Korea resulting from a skydiving mishap.
  2. The protagonist faces a perilous situation when mistaken for a spy, leading to a tense and tragic conclusion.
  3. The narrative showcases themes of misunderstanding, communication barriers, and the consequences of trespassing in a highly sensitive area.

Good Luck

Nice Try β€’ 99 implied HN points β€’ 07 Dec 23
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Prose Narrative Creative Writing Short Stories
  1. A man in a blue suit stares longingly at a popsicle shop, showing how sometimes we hesitate to treat ourselves. It's humorous how he eventually buys a popsicle on a cold day, seeming a bit out of place.
  2. The story reflects on the changes in the neighborhood, with a guitar shop replaced by a luxury store, highlighting how businesses can come and go based on what's popular.
  3. The main character is cold and without a coat, symbolizing a kind of refusal to change one's life, which adds a layer of humor and relatability to the situation.

Good Gravy

Nice Try β€’ 279 implied HN points β€’ 10 Mar 23
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Short Stories Creative Writing Narrative Contemporary
  1. Relationships can be complicated and painful, sometimes leading to unexpected situations like being shot by someone you know. Humor and absurdity can help lighten these heavy moments.
  2. The experience of pain and healing can bring people together, as seen with friends stepping in to help after an injury. It's all about how we support each other through difficult times.
  3. Life is full of challenges and disappointments, but finding ways to appreciate and love even the tough experiences can lead to personal growth. Embracing life's chaos can make it feel more meaningful.

#123 Design fiction πŸ“–

Design Lobster β€’ 279 implied HN points β€’ 28 Nov 22
πŸͺ‘ Design Fiction Future Art Creativity
  1. Design fiction involves creating functional objects from potential futures to spark debate and engagement about those futures.
  2. Fictional artifacts can evoke deeper emotions and engagement compared to traditional concept videos, making them a powerful tool for future envisioning.
  3. Imaginative design can transport people into envisioned futures and help reveal truths that reality might obscure, fostering progress and innovation.

Rat Island

Nice Try β€’ 219 implied HN points β€’ 07 May 23
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Short Stories Narrative Writing Style Character development
  1. People create stories about each other to fill in gaps. If someone doesn’t share their story, others might make up something much stranger.
  2. Friendship can be found in unexpected places. Rat Island and Geese bonded over their laughter and shared experiences at work, showing how connection can help through tough times.
  3. Life is full of changes, and people's roles can shift. Rat Island went from being a lively person to more serious, reflecting how age and experiences can affect our spirits.

Feynman, Fairy Tales & Fooling Ourselves

Weekly Wisdom β€’ 139 implied HN points β€’ 16 Feb 23
πŸ“– Philosophy Psychology Fiction Morality Spirituality Self-deception
  1. Richard Feynman emphasized the importance of not fooling oneself, as we are often prone to self-deception.
  2. Fairy tales serve as more than simple children's stories, often exploring dark themes and offering lessons through storytelling.
  3. Stories like 'The Emperor's New Clothes' highlight human tendencies such as vanity, greed, conformity, and the importance of speaking up against falsehoods.

On Reading More Books

The Analog Family β€’ 239 implied HN points β€’ 04 Apr 23
πŸ“š Literature Books Reading Authors Fiction Nonfiction Literary culture
  1. Setting aside time to read each week can help you finish more books. Avoid distractions like TV during the week to make reading a habit.
  2. Using a library's online catalog is a great way to explore new books without spending money. You can try different genres and authors without worrying about costs.
  3. Taking notes while reading can enhance your understanding and retention of the material. Mark important sections and keep them organized for future reference.

The Domes of Calrathia

Trantor Publishing β€’ 79 implied HN points β€’ 26 Dec 23
πŸ“š Literature Fantasy Storytelling Fiction Characters Plot
  1. Berenice's sword is a significant symbol tied to the memory of her child, and she must carry it until her death, representing her burden and the only memory allowed to her.
  2. The story delves into themes of love, grief, and sacrifice, highlighting the depths people are willing to go for those they care about.
  3. Death and its mysteries are pondered upon, emphasizing the unique ways individuals cope with loss and the different beliefs they hold about the afterlife.

The Mystics of Progress

Trantor Publishing β€’ 119 implied HN points β€’ 09 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Sci-fi Progressivism Religion Humanity Fiction
  1. Progressive ideologies in the modern world are intertwined with religious and mythical elements to create a more engaging narrative.
  2. Science fiction often incorporates concepts like evolution, destiny, and indistinct higher beings to provide meaning and purpose in a world that can seem bleak and indifferent.
  3. Stories reflect the beliefs and aspirations of society, offering insights into the fears, hopes, and dreams of a culture.

Background for The Ingarie Files

Carefree Sketches β€’ 59 implied HN points β€’ 07 Feb 24
πŸ“š Literature Sci-fi Storytelling Fiction Writing World Building
  1. The Ingarie Files is a collection of stories that present a world set in a post-breakup Nigeria, featuring themes of espionage and cyborg soldiers.
  2. The narratives explore the intricacies of a fictional world through interconnected stories, essays, and reports, weaving a complex and immersive experience for the readers.
  3. The concept of THE INGARIE FILES acts as a jigsaw puzzle where each story piece enriches the depiction of the country across different time periods, offering a deep understanding of the setting.

The Domes of Calrathia

Trantor Publishing β€’ 79 implied HN points β€’ 23 Dec 23
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Storytelling Imagination Characters World Building
  1. Preparing for a dangerous journey involves seizing every advantage available, including acquiring knowledge and resources
  2. Exploring unfamiliar territories can reveal unexpected challenges and wonders, urging one to adapt and stay cautious
  3. Encounters with unique individuals can lead to unexpected gifts or insights, even if they challenge one's beliefs or perceptions

When I Got Knifed

Sundman figures it out! β€’ 117 implied HN points β€’ 25 Jul 23
πŸ“š Literature Memoir Short Stories Fiction Novels Book promotion
  1. The author shared a story about being confronted by a knife-wielding assailant and how he managed to defend himself.
  2. The author reflected on experiences during the dot-com era and how a particular website played a role in spreading rumors about failing companies.
  3. Personal anecdotes about travels, encounters, weightlifting, and book promotions were seamlessly woven into the storytelling.

Stephen King's 'Fairy Tale' Has Some Issues

diabolical β€’ 117 implied HN points β€’ 03 May 23
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Authors Books
  1. The narrator of Stephen King's 'Fairy Tale' may not feel like a believable teenager from 2013 due to outdated pop culture references.
  2. Political messaging in the book, 'Fairy Tale', seems out of place and does not fit well with the overall story or characters.
  3. Including random political notations in the narrative can weaken the story's immersion and impact for readers.

Hello darkness, my old friend

quite useless β€’ 117 implied HN points β€’ 13 Jun 23
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Art & Illustration
  1. The post shares an excerpt from Julia Fine's novel, Maddalena and the Dark.
  2. The excerpt delves into the dynamics and complexities of relationships among young girls in a historical setting.
  3. The author creates a vivid backdrop of Venice and the Ospedale della PietΓ , painting a rich picture of the characters' lives.

Good Luck / Episode Ten

Nice Try β€’ 59 implied HN points β€’ 01 Feb 24
πŸ“š Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Creative Writing Prose
  1. The writer talks about how their cacti need support, showing how sometimes we all need a little help in life.
  2. There are quirky decorations in their living space, suggesting that personal items can make a place feel more like home.
  3. A funny moment at a red light highlights how everyday experiences can bring laughter and joy.

The Cooperatives: The scream

storyvoyager β€’ 5 implied HN points β€’ 27 Dec 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Science fiction Storytelling
  1. The story explores a future where humans face severe consequences due to climate change. It showcases how people's actions can disrupt nature and bring about significant challenges.
  2. Characters interact with indigenous beliefs and practices, showing a deep respect for nature. This highlights the importance of understanding and honoring the environment we live in.
  3. The tension escalates as characters confront the consequences of their actions. Their interactions reflect the struggle between human desires and the sacredness of nature, encouraging readers to think about their choices.

Violence and Responsibility in 'Ministry for the Future'

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger β€’ 40 implied HN points β€’ 22 Nov 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Books Themes Climate Violence
  1. The book reveals how violence can be used for political change, which is a complex and often overlooked idea.
  2. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and understanding the responsibilities of those causing harm to others.
  3. These themes are not commonly discussed in regular conversations about climate change, but they are prevalent in climate fiction.

James and the Giant Pitch

Data People Etc. β€’ 106 implied HN points β€’ 08 Mar 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Friendship Loneliness Adventure Emotions
  1. Founding a company is about more than just getting rich; it can be driven by a deeper desire for meaning and friendship.
  2. The story of James and the Giant Peach suggests that entrepreneurs may be seeking to fill emotional voids through their ventures.
  3. Loneliness and personal pain may be key motivators for individuals to embark on entrepreneurial journeys.

10 books of women's awakenings: fiction

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie β€’ 339 implied HN points β€’ 24 May 22
πŸ“š Literature Fiction
  1. Reading fiction can be transformative by opening up new perspectives and shifting worldviews.
  2. Books focused on women's awakenings can challenge societal norms and inspire independence and self-discovery.
  3. Fictional works, including dystopian novels, can highlight important social issues and provoke critical thinking about the world we live in.

Links for January

Bullfish Hole β€’ 58 implied HN points β€’ 26 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture History Fiction Comics Sci-fi Mythology
  1. There is ongoing debate about the 'peak woke' movement and its impact on organizations and individuals.
  2. Challenges in automating industries like construction lie in the complexity of tasks and the need for human adjustments.
  3. Historical research often uncovers surprising truths, confirming myths and legends from the past.

Book 4: The Story of the Lost Child

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts β€’ 16 implied HN points β€’ 29 Oct 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Literary Analysis Book Reviews Author studies Cultural Commentary
  1. The climax of 'The Story of the Lost Child' centers around the heartbreaking loss of a child named Tina, highlighting the intense pain of not knowing what happens to a loved one.
  2. Elena Ferrante's writing captures complex relationships and deep emotions, with characters that represent different sides of the author's own experience, making the story feel personal and relatable.
  3. There are intriguing theories about Ferrante's identity, suggesting she might be a collaboration between a husband and wife, which adds a layer of mystery to her powerful storytelling.

All grapes are sour until they're ripe

storyvoyager β€’ 6 implied HN points β€’ 16 Dec 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Writing Storytelling Creativity Literary themes
  1. Patience is important. Just like grapes need time to ripen, ideas and goals also take time to develop.
  2. Creating can be tough sometimes. There were many challenges this year, but the hard work eventually turned into sweet success.
  3. Sharing stories can connect us. The upcoming mini-series is a way to bring people together and reflect on past experiences as we step into a new year.

A Conversation with Caleb Caudell

Political Currents by Ross Barkan β€’ 11 implied HN points β€’ 21 Nov 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Autofiction Creative Writing Contemporary Cultural criticism
  1. Writing about sex can be found in contemporary literature, but the author believes we need a deeper and more critical perspective on it. They're aiming to show how sexual issues connect to wider social problems.
  2. The writer thinks being from a place like Indiana shapes their work differently than writers from major cities. Yet, they also feel that true talent can shine no matter where someone is from.
  3. They share their writing routine is flexible, often fueled by coffee and exercise. Writing is something they enjoy, regardless of whether they make money from it or not.

The kind of author you *don't* want to be

How to Glow in the Dark β€’ 259 implied HN points β€’ 07 Mar 23
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Writing Authors Books Publishing
  1. Commercial book editors and readers expect authors to adopt a specific persona on the page.
  2. Avoid coming off as annoying in your writing to connect better with commercial audiences.
  3. Authors who are too focused on their trauma or too self-absorbed may struggle to engage readers and may not be ready to write a commercial book.

Good Luck

Nice Try β€’ 79 implied HN points β€’ 30 Nov 23
πŸ“š Literature Poetry Narrative Memoir Fiction Creative Writing
  1. Life starts with a mix of hope and uncertainty, like when a baby is born and everyone says 'good luck.'
  2. Family members can offer both warmth and caution, showing how different perspectives on luck and superstition can shape our lives.
  3. Childhood is filled with imagination and innocence, where simple moments, like seeing a butterfly, bring joy and a sense of magic.

/

Nice Try β€’ 239 implied HN points β€’ 04 Feb 23
πŸ“š Literature Poetry Fiction Non-fiction Essays Narrative
  1. Sharing and connecting with people through writing can be a great experience. It allows for creativity and community building.
  2. Joining a subscription plan might offer extra benefits and exclusive content. This can enhance your reading and engagement with the content.
  3. Starting your own publication can be easy and rewarding. It gives you a platform to express yourself and share your thoughts with others.