The hottest Fiction Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

New vampire novel chapter for Halloween

Meaningness β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 31 Oct 23
πŸ“š Literature Novel Fiction Writing
  1. The new vampire novel chapter is a major turning point in the plot, revealing what the novel is actually about.
  2. The author faced challenges while writing fiction, realizing that translating a mental movie into a written narrative required filling plot holes and revision.
  3. The novel, initially intended as a crowd-pandering advertisement, experienced a 15-year delay and is now mainly written for the author's enjoyment.

Fiction: Unhistorical Fiction (Part 1)

Autoscriptorium β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 08 Aug 23
πŸ“š Literature Fiction
  1. Fiction can be seen as a history that could have taken place, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.
  2. The story highlights themes of truce negotiations, alliances, and the intrigue of war, showcasing how conflicts can shape individuals and societies.
  3. The narrative weaves together elements of mystery, betrayal, and strategic planning, portraying how characters like Andrion navigate complex political landscapes.

"Guerrillas" (V. S. Naipaul)

Outsider Art β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 18 Sep 23
πŸ“š Literature Fiction
  1. The novel 'Guerrillas' by V. S. Naipaul explores themes of decay and disillusionment in post-independence Caribbean society.
  2. The characters in 'Guerrillas' grapple with identity, outsider status, and the impact of colonial history.
  3. The story delves into political unrest, the fragility of revolution, and the complex dynamics between foreign visitors and local residents.

The Culture of Progress

Trantor Publishing β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 20 Aug 22
πŸ“š Literature Short Stories Fiction History
  1. In the pursuit of progress, dissent is handled through reeducation or reassessment before resorting to more aggressive measures
  2. The concept of history is deemed problematic by Progress, leading to extreme measures to abolish the past to ensure a perfect future
  3. Even the most guarded treasures, like the past's knowledge, may be disregarded if deemed useless or unlearned by future generations

A Strange Wood

Journal of Gurdjieff Studies β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 21 Jul 22
πŸ“š Literature Fiction
  1. The post is part of a series about a young physician named Will who finds himself alone in a strange wood by a river.
  2. In the wood, Will notices that the young plants are mostly poisonous, hinting at a mysterious and potentially dangerous environment.
  3. The post is for paid subscribers only, indicating exclusive content available for those who subscribe.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

The Beginning of a Journey (Fiction)

Journal of Gurdjieff Studies β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 07 Jul 22
πŸ“š Literature Fiction
  1. The post is part of a series about a young physician named Will, set in a cozy cottage at the beginning of a journey.
  2. The scene is described as a cold, wintry morning, contrasting with the warmth of the small, well-lit room where Will and Goodie are gathered.
  3. Access to the full content or subscription is required for further details of the fictional narrative.

The Signature (Fiction)

Journal of Gurdjieff Studies β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 16 Jun 22
πŸ“š Literature Fiction
  1. The post is about the second scenario involving the young physician Will, in a series called The Signature (Fiction).
  2. Will is interrupted in his sleep by a patient needing an urgent visit, which adds suspense to the story.
  3. The post is only accessible to paid subscribers, emphasizing exclusive content for those who support the creator.

Toniann Fernandez: BIODYMANIA

Do Not Research β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 15 Feb 22
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Health & Wellness Spirituality Art Culture
  1. At Pacha-Mahwah Ranch, the experience focuses on ascension and self-discovery through a unique and intense process involving deep immersion and introspection.
  2. The communal dining experience at the ranch centers around a ritualistic storytelling session, where guests share stories, chant together, and immerse themselves in a transformative journey.
  3. The atmosphere at Pacha-Mahwah Ranch is eccentric and mysterious, with unusual activities, deep symbolism, and a mix of intense personal experiences that challenge and push the boundaries of comfort.

Sean J Patrick Carney & Thomas J Gamble: BACK\SLASHER\02

Do Not Research β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 15 Feb 22
πŸ“š Literature Fiction
  1. The protagonist finds herself in a mysterious, dangerous situation in a room filled with unsettling objects and hazardous substances.
  2. There is a dramatic confrontation and escape involving violent action and the use of mysterious substances with extraordinary effects.
  3. The story unfolds with a sense of urgency and suspense as the protagonist navigates perilous circumstances and tries to outwit her pursuers.

Sean J Patrick Carney & Thomas J Gamble: BACK\SLASHER\01

Do Not Research β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 15 Feb 22
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Mystery Thriller
  1. After losing her job due to the pandemic, a woman found work through an app connecting independent contractors with flexible gigs.
  2. She ended up performing various odd jobs, including landscaping, maintenance work at brothels, and installing COVID-19 safety measures at casinos.
  3. The story takes a mysterious turn as she is led to a secretive and unsettling job site with hazmat suits and futuristic cleaning supplies.

The Christmas holiday fiction issue

The Jolly Contrarian β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 22 Dec 21
πŸ“š Literature Fiction
  1. The story revolves around Eagle Squadron Commander Opco Boone, LLB, and his team's heroic efforts against a threatening convoy.
  2. There is a tense showdown involving strategic operations, gunships, and high-stakes decisions as part of a gripping narrative.
  3. The plot features a mix of action, suspense, and camaraderie among the characters, leading to a heartwarming ending as they rally together.

Robots, Monks, & Tea

Homo Ludens β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 18 Jun 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Science fiction Review World Building
  1. A Psalm for the Wild-Built explores a post-apocalyptic society where humans and robots coexist in a post-scarcity world.
  2. The novella follows Dex, a gender-neutral tea monk, on a journey into the wilderness to interact with awakened robots and reconnect with nature.
  3. Chambers' book offers a hopeful and introspective look at human needs, consciousness, and the importance of emotional connection, with balanced world-building that doesn't overwhelm the reader.

Harnessing Moral Ambiguity in Fiction (and Elsewhere)

Homo Ludens β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 04 May 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Character development Language
  1. Moral ambiguity is a key aspect in fiction and our modern society, challenging traditional concepts of good and bad.
  2. World-building, character development, and narrative tension are essential tools to effectively harness moral ambiguity in storytelling.
  3. Incorporating language, research, and authentic details can enhance the portrayal of moral ambiguity in narratives, drawing inspiration from various forms of media.

Notebooks: A Writer’s (and an Imagination’s) Truest Friends

Homo Ludens β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 15 Dec 19
πŸ“š Literature Writing Imagination Journals Fiction Creativity
  1. Notebooks are non-judgmental and affordable companions, especially in a harsh world.
  2. Keeping a notebook or journal can be a powerful tool for creativity and mental health, offering a safe space for thoughts and ideas.
  3. Notebooks can hold the key to self-expression, exploration of experiences, and nurturing the imagination, regardless of whether you are a writer or not.

NgưƑ̀i Nhãn

ThΓ‘i | Hacker | Kα»Ή sΖ° tin tαΊ·c β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 09 May 17
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Crime Mystery Suspense Tragedy
  1. Người Nhãn, a mysterious figure in the story, had a lot of mystery surrounding his identity and actions, which intrigued many people in the community.
  2. The character NΔƒm Cam played a significant role in the plot, being involved in events that influenced Người NhΓ£n's life and ultimately attending his funeral alone, causing speculation amongst others.
  3. The story includes elements of loyalty, betrayal, and complex relationships among the characters, showcasing how actions and decisions can have lasting consequences in a community.

The Moving Sickness: A Pandemic Parable

The Bigger Picture β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 26 Mar 20
πŸ“š Literature Fiction
  1. Children are often more connected to nature's wisdom and guidance than adults, as shown by the girl and the boy in the story.
  2. The adults in the story represent the struggle to find meaning in constant movement and growth, eventually finding peace by embracing the unknown.
  3. The story highlights the importance of balance and purpose in moving forward, symbolized by the decision of the children to continue their journey while honoring the memory of the adults.

Friday Fruit Salad

Outlandish Claims β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 21 Jun 24
πŸ“š Literature History Science Fiction
  1. The author's letter-to-the-editor in the New Yorker discusses the history of suspense and William Godwin's influence on page-turner novels.
  2. The relationship between r/K selection, proof-of-work, and euphemism treadmill is explored in a New Yorker article mentioned by the author.
  3. Ada Lovelace's insights from 1843 on programming merging the abstract and concrete are referenced in the author's post, highlighting the impact of computer language development.

Why Story Matters

The Renaissance Man β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 17 Jul 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Non-fiction Narrative Storytelling Reading
  1. Stories help us feel connected and understood. They show us that we are not alone in our struggles.
  2. Reading fiction can teach us important lessons about life in a way that non-fiction often can't. It helps us process our emotions and thoughts.
  3. Telling or sharing stories can open up conversations and help us connect with others, making our experiences more meaningful together.

We Don't Understand Time

The ApΓ©ritif β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 09 Jun 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Authors Books Cultural critique Creative Writing
  1. Kurt Vonnegut's life and work show that he had a unique understanding of time. He believed that moments in time, like past, present, and future, all exist together, which he explored in his writing.
  2. The film 'Unstuck in Time' captures Vonnegut's gentle and funny spirit, as well as his belief in the importance of family and creativity. It reflects on how modern technology can steal away children's wonder and imagination.
  3. Vonnegut's personality and wisdom feel rare today. He had a charming way of speaking that made people feel connected to him, and his experiences shaped his ability to convey deep truths about life.

Retalings

Something to Consider β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 15 Jun 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Poetry Narrative Prose
  1. The story creatively blends elements of sports and classic literature, highlighting the struggles of the character James Finnican as a football player.
  2. Finnican faces harsh criticism and scrutiny from the media after a significant mistake on the field, reflecting the pressures athletes often endure.
  3. The tale emphasizes themes of failure, reputation, and the impact of public opinion, as Finnican's life and identity are largely shaped by his performance and the reactions to it.

Truth and Lies in HBO's Chernobyl and Cat's Cradle

Tranquil Thoughts β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 09 Jul 23
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Criticism History Philosophy Culture
  1. HBO's Chernobyl shows how lies can lead to awful consequences. It suggests that truth is crucial for solving problems, even though it has some historical inaccuracies in the story.
  2. In contrast, Cat's Cradle by Vonnegut argues that knowing the truth can be harmful. It presents lies as necessary for living a happier life, emphasizing the chaos of trying to find meaning.
  3. Both works offer different views on truth and lies. One sees truth as a way to fix problems, while the other sees it as something that can cause fear and despair.

Leisure Reading

Matt’s Five Points β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 18 Aug 10
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Reading Writing Publishing Books
  1. Leisure reading is important for relaxation and enjoyment. It helps to escape from daily stress and immerse oneself in different worlds.
  2. Reading can also improve literacy skills and expand vocabulary. Engaging with various texts can enhance understanding and communication.
  3. Downloading a novel prologue indicates the author's desire to share their work. It invites readers to explore new stories and support the writing community.

2023 Reading Recap

Logos β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 27 Dec 23
πŸ“š Literature Book Reviews Essays Fiction Non-fiction Author analysis
  1. Reading history can show us that certain fundamentals of business and society don't change over time. Many modern issues echo those from the past.
  2. Good business practices can be learned from successful companies like Amazon, especially in product development and hiring processes. Their methods emphasize clarity and thoughtful decision-making.
  3. Books can challenge our thinking and provoke interesting questions about art, society, and our nature. They can offer insights that resonate, especially during personal changes, like parenthood.

A matter of no importance

Logos β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 29 Dec 20
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Narrative Characters Themes Prose
  1. The narrator feels sad because he pushed away a woman who cared for him, showing that sometimes we hurt those we care about without even realizing it.
  2. He struggles with societal expectations of being tough and uncaring, believing that vulnerability makes him weak, which only increases his feelings of loneliness and sorrow.
  3. Eveline, the woman he pushed away, represents kindness and dignity, showing that true sophistication comes from being caring rather than callous.

Stories with three characters

do clouds feel vertigo? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 28 Jan 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Storytelling Character analysis Themes Narrative structure
  1. Stories with three characters often have a dynamic structure. They allow for different interactions and conflicts.
  2. The concept of three can be found in various cultural references, like the Greek Fates or the division of regions in France.
  3. In mathematics, three basic components, like an origin and two signs, can represent crucial ideas. This highlights the simplicity and versatility of the number three.

Short-range dependance

do clouds feel vertigo? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 26 Jan 24
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Storytelling Narrative Reading Books
  1. Bob wants to spoil Alice's book reading by starting a few pages ahead. He realizes there's a balance between starting too far ahead or too close to her current reading.
  2. Alice enjoys page-turners where the story keeps getting exciting, which makes it easier for Bob to guess the next part. The density of the story affects how spoilers work in their reading game.
  3. Eventually, Alice catches onto Bob's plan and decides to read something like dictionaries, which makes it impossible for Bob to spoil anything.

Coming Soon

do clouds feel vertigo? β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 27 Jan 23
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Storytelling Narrative Analogies Philosophy
  1. Challenge the way things are and ask tough questions. It's important to think differently and be open to new ideas.
  2. Use stories and comparisons to understand big ideas. They help us think about complicated things in a simpler way.
  3. The stories we tell ourselves matter. They shape how we see the world and can give us freedom to think and feel differently.

My favorite novels on financial markets

Musings on Markets β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 07 Mar 09
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Crime Finance Historical Novels
  1. David Liss's novel 'The Conspiracy of Paper' offers an interesting look at financial markets during the South Sea Bubble. It shows how swindlers took advantage of investors, which still happens today.
  2. Another of Liss's notable works is 'The Coffee Trader', which explores the early derivatives markets in coffee. It highlights how trading antics have been around for a long time, just like today.
  3. While 'The Whiskey Rebels' ties into finance through Alexander Hamilton's story, it doesn't capture market chaos as well as Liss's other books do.

"From an altitude high in the clear stratosphere, will come pictures of storms raging far if not near"

The Climate Historian β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 19 Apr 23
πŸ”¬ Science Space Exploration Meteorology Literature Fiction
  1. In the late 19th century, Edward Everett Hale imagined a space station called the Brick Moon, highlighting early thoughts about satellites and space travel. It was pretty amazing that someone back then dreamed about humans living in space!
  2. Throughout the 20th century, scientists like Konstantin Tsiolkovsky and Hermann Oberth made important strides in rocketry, paving the way for modern space exploration. Their ideas helped turn the dream of traveling to other planets into reality.
  3. In the 1950s, meteorologists began to recognize the potential of weather satellites to improve forecasts and observe storms. This technology eventually helped scientists predict complex weather patterns and better understand the atmosphere.

Come Work With Me! + News

The Fairest Writer β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 26 Jan 23
πŸ“š Literature Creative Writing Workshops Awards Fiction Nonfiction
  1. The author will be teaching at two in-person writers' conferences this summer. If you're interested in writing, this is a great opportunity to learn from them.
  2. They received a Creative Capital Award for their novel-in-progress, which will help with research and travel for the project. This grant provides financial support and resources for artists.
  3. In the next newsletter, they plan to share tips about handling applications and submissions in the writing world. This could be helpful if you're looking to improve your writing process.

Hi from Millay and Long-Overdue Recording

The Fairest Writer β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 02 Nov 22
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Writing Workshops Residencies
  1. The author is taking time to focus on their writing during a residency at Millay Arts. They find that limiting internet use helps them be more productive.
  2. One of their stories was nominated for a Pushcart Prize, which they feel grateful for after a long journey moving from nonfiction to fiction writing.
  3. The author encourages others who are exploring new areas in their writing to know they are not alone in their journey.

Of Writing and Residencies

The Fairest Writer β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 15 Mar 22
πŸ“š Literature Writing Residencies Fiction Creative Process Teaching
  1. Residencies can help you break bad habits, like too much screen time, and allow you to reconnect with your creative process. Being in a place without distractions can be refreshing.
  2. Meeting other artists at residencies exposes you to different ideas and collaborations, which can inspire new projects. It's a great way to find motivation and support from fellow creatives.
  3. Residencies boost your self-confidence as a writer. Having your work validated by an official program can help you trust in your skills and artistic direction.

An Essay on Craft Books and Fiction

The Fairest Writer β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 12 May 21
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Non-fiction Writing Essays Craft
  1. Books about writing can deeply impact us based on where we are in life. Sometimes, we only understand their messages when we are ready to hear them.
  2. Writing isn't just about having a clear plan or vision. Exploring unexpected ideas and emotions can lead to more meaningful stories.
  3. Getting into the habit of writing just one sentence can help uncover hidden thoughts and feelings. It allows writers to explore their creativity without being tied to a specific plot.

Short Story Workshop Tomorrow!

The Fairest Writer β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 03 May 21
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Writing Workshops Publishing Storytelling
  1. There's a short story workshop happening soon with author Peter Kispert. It's a great chance to learn about writing fiction and submitting to literary journals.
  2. The workshop is useful for both new writers and those with experience, offering key advice on improving short stories and story collections.
  3. The host has recently developed a passion for short stories and encourages others who feel the same to join the workshop for guidance.

On Making Things Up

The Fairest Writer β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 06 Apr 21
πŸ“š Literature Fiction Nonfiction Writing Editing Workshops
  1. Fiction allows writers to change facts and details, making it more flexible than nonfiction. This freedom can be exciting but also requires adjustment, especially for nonfiction writers.
  2. In fiction, the writer can easily erase and remake details if they don't fit the story anymore. It's all about how well these parts connect to the larger narrative.
  3. Workshops can help writers transition between different styles, like moving from memoir to fiction. Learning from experienced authors can bring great insights into this process.

Come Read and Write With Us!

The Fairest Writer β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 11 Nov 20
πŸ“š Literature Writing Workshops Memoir Fiction
  1. There are upcoming writing activities and workshops for those interested in writing. It's a chance to connect with fellow writers and explore new techniques together.
  2. One event will be a book discussion group focusing on writing-related books. Anyone is welcome to join, even if they haven't read the book yet.
  3. Another event is a writing session on Zoom where people can write together. It's a good way to stay motivated and get your writing done.

Fiction Techniques for Memoir (and Vice-Versa) Workshop Next Week!

The Fairest Writer β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 20 Oct 20
πŸ“š Literature Writing Memoir Fiction Workshops Craft
  1. There's a workshop coming up that teaches how to use fiction writing techniques in memoirs. It's a great opportunity to learn and improve your writing skills.
  2. A writing session is happening soon for people who want to write together. It’s a nice way to be productive in a group setting.
  3. A new empathy handbook has been released, and it could make a thoughtful gift for family members, especially during the holidays.

Memoir Is Sculpture, Fiction Is Painting

The Fairest Writer β€’ 0 implied HN points β€’ 11 May 20
πŸ“š Literature Memoir Fiction Art Creative Writing Personal essays
  1. Memoir is like sculpture; you shape a story from your real life. You start with the material of your experiences and craft them into something meaningful.
  2. Fiction is like painting; you're free to create and imagine without real-life limits. You decide how the story flows and can change things as you go along.
  3. Both memoir and fiction involve creativity, but they ask different skills. Memoir focuses on working with fixed life events, while fiction allows more imaginative freedom.