The hottest Fiction Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

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.

Mailbag Grab Grab

Freddie deBoer • 3434 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Writing Publishing Reading
  1. The writer is open to doing a podcast if it's funded and someone else handles the technical aspects, but they don't think it would attract enough new subscribers.
  2. They are excited about their upcoming book projects, including a novel and a nonfiction book about mental health, with expected publication dates in 2025 and 2026.
  3. Despite receiving many emails, the writer can't always respond due to time constraints but values the input and feels guilty for not replying.

Short Reviews for October 2024

Papyrus Rampant • 119 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
📚 Literature Books Fiction History Reviews Public Health
  1. Mindtouch is a cozy sci-fi story about two alien dormmates who build a strong friendship. It focuses more on their character growth than on action.
  2. The Rolling Stones is a fun sci-fi adventure featuring family banter and problem-solving on a trip through the Solar System. The resourceful twins turn a fun vacation into a business venture.
  3. A Good Time to Be Born highlights how public health efforts helped reduce childhood mortality over the last century. It shows both the struggles and the successes in improving children's health.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

The Monday Media Diet with David McCloskey

Why is this interesting? • 723 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Book Reviews Authors Writing Reading
  1. David McCloskey is a former CIA analyst who became a spy novelist. His experiences give depth to his fiction writing.
  2. He prefers reading books over watching TV news and enjoys exploring various topics, especially through literature.
  3. McCloskey recommends reading older spy novels, particularly by Charles McCarry, for a better understanding of the genre.

Book Review: Deep Utopia

Astral Codex Ten • 15004 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
📚 Literature Philosophy Fiction Book Reviews Science fiction
  1. The book explores what life would be like if there were no problems at all. It raises questions about whether such a world would be truly fulfilling or just boring.
  2. Bostrom discusses 'wireheading,' where people could experience intense pleasure but questions if this would lead to a meaningful existence or if it would feel like cheating.
  3. He suggests different ways to find meaning in a perfect world, like through art, sports, or personal challenges, but wonders if these pursuits could remain exciting in an environment without real struggles.

The End

Story Club with George Saunders • 52 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Book clubs Narrative Storytelling
  1. The story 'The Death of Ivan Ilyich' has a powerful ending that raises many thoughts and feelings. It's a perfect example of how storytelling can deeply impact us.
  2. As you read stories, pay attention to what captures your interest or confuses you. These moments can lead to deeper understanding and help improve your own writing.
  3. Discussing stories in a group can enhance your experience. Sharing questions and thoughts can lead to exciting discoveries and insights into the text.

Christmas, science, context, suicide, E.B. White, Bear, Piranesi, James, reading, epigraphs?, Murdoch, selfish, X, smells, Potter, gpt philosophy, PhD, rating Austen, American fantasy?, Art job

The Common Reader • 992 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Criticism Poetry Literary theory
  1. Ben Jonson played a role in shaping the modern concept of Father Christmas, but it's unclear if he truly invented the character. He helped create the idea of a cheerful, fatherly figure for the holiday season.
  2. Critics argue that the scientific study of literature can't fully capture its value, suggesting that some truths about reading can't be easily tested. This raises questions about the reliability of many academic studies in this field.
  3. The review of 'Context Collapse' highlights its complex writing style and the author's impressive range of knowledge. While the book might feel like a mix of random facts, it aims to convey deeper insights through its collage-like structure.

Literature needs young men more than young men need it

The Intrinsic Perspective • 9247 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Reading Writing Cultural critique Education
  1. Literature is becoming more popular with women, while fewer young men are writing and reading it. This shift raises concerns about the future of literary culture.
  2. Many believe that this decline in male readers is harmful, as reading novels can help improve emotional intelligence and personal understanding.
  3. The argument is made that contemporary literature actually needs young men more than they need literature, suggesting a crucial void in the literary landscape.

Subscriber Writing, December 2024

Freddie deBoer • 1330 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Essays Book Reviews Creative Writing
  1. There are many interesting blog posts from different writers. These posts cover a wide range of topics that might capture your interest.
  2. The email roundup indicates that reader engagement is important, as more entries mean more chances for quality writing to be discovered.
  3. Subscribing allows you to participate and share your own writing, offering an opportunity to reach a wider audience.

Baum's original Oz is darker and stranger than Wicked

The Intrinsic Perspective • 6165 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
📚 Literature Books Fiction Reviews Characters Criticism
  1. Baum's original story of Oz is much darker and stranger than the musical Wicked. It includes more intense and unsettling elements.
  2. Dorothy is portrayed as a flawed character in the original book, which adds complexity to her role as a hero.
  3. The original Oz has elements like odd transformations and eerie landscapes that contribute to its unique charm and depth.

Can fiction improve you?

The Common Reader • 2055 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Reading Psychology Philosophy Education
  1. Fiction might not really improve you as some believe. Studies show that its benefits, like understanding emotions, are small and not clear-cut.
  2. Reading fiction can be enjoyable, but it could also lead you to accept false beliefs. Sometimes, it sways our thoughts and feelings in ways we might not notice.
  3. The debate on whether fiction is good or bad for us is complicated. It might inspire creativity and reflection, but it's hard to measure how much it truly affects us.

Yikes, a Heartfelt Abject Apology

Story Club with George Saunders • 67 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Authors Writing Literary Events
  1. Mistakes can happen, and it's important to acknowledge them honestly. George was tricked by incorrect information about someone else's well-being.
  2. Offering a heartfelt apology helps to clear the air and show care for others. George expressed his genuine regret for jumping to conclusions.
  3. It's always good to double-check information before spreading it. This situation reminds us to be careful about what we share.

A great, fun, strange translation of Homer; a rich, poignant 2000s time-travel thriller; and some new songs I love

Read Max • 737 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
📚 Literature Books Poetry Fiction Essays Translations
  1. There is a unique and enjoyable translation of Homer's work that stands out from typical versions. It's worth checking out if you're interested in classic literature.
  2. A time-travel thriller from the 2000s combines romance, humor, and deep feelings in a fun story. It's a great pick if you enjoy thrilling adventures with emotional depth.
  3. Four new songs have caught the author's attention and are highly recommended. Music lovers should give these tracks a listen for something fresh.

Turning Off the TV in Your Mind

Counter Craft • 1344 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Narrative Prose
  1. Writing fiction is different from watching TV. When you write, you should focus on words and deep thoughts, not just what you see on a screen.
  2. Prose allows writers to control time and characters' inner thoughts. This means you can skip boring details and dive deeper into what characters feel and think.
  3. It's important to remember that Point of View (POV) is subjective in writing. Describe things from a character's perspective to add depth and personality, rather than giving a neutral view like a camera.

"Is the Sky Ever Green?"

Story Club with George Saunders • 56 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Storytelling Authors Critique
  1. Writing well isn’t just about following rules; it often involves a natural talent that can’t be forced. Sometimes inspiration comes unexpectedly, like catching a fish out of nowhere.
  2. Specificity in writing helps create a vivid picture, but it can also be useful to think about how your reader reacts to each line as they read. This helps you create a more engaging experience.
  3. Colors in prose can surprise readers and enhance the story. Using unique colors can make readers pause and think, which draws them deeper into the imaginary world.

The Heteronym Edition

Why is this interesting? • 904 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Authors
  1. Heteronyms are creative identities that authors use to express different voices, separate from their real selves. This can add depth and variety to literature, allowing for unique perspectives.
  2. Augusto Monterroso created a fictional translator named Eduardo Torres, who never existed, to showcase the art of heteronyms. He used this persona to publish works that read like they were from a real author.
  3. The concept of heteronyms reminds us that everyone has different sides to their personality. As we grow, we create versions of ourselves that reflect our changes over time.

Resolutions

Soaring Twenties • 208 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Essays Literature Fiction Poetry Self-help
  1. Enjoy the process of learning and creating. Taking your time and being organized can make the experience much more fulfilling.
  2. It's important to set personal resolutions that truly matter to you, instead of following trends or what others expect.
  3. Reading can be a meaningful activity, especially when done mindfully, allowing you to savor each piece and reflect on it.

a poet cliché | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 35 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Drama Prose
  1. Poets often deal with deep emotions like heartache and despair in their work. This pain can inspire them to create profound art.
  2. The solitary life of a poet can come with sacrifices, like neglecting their appearance and personal comfort. They may look disheveled but their creativity shines through.
  3. Being a poet means facing loneliness and working through tough feelings. This struggle is often what makes their writing relatable and impactful.

Palm Beach, Tower D

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 449 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Narrative Themes Cultural critique Dystopia
  1. The Four Towers represent distinct areas of life in a revolutionary society, each with its own culture and traditions. People feel a mix of excitement and anxiety when crossing between these Towers due to their unique customs.
  2. Tower A focuses on transportation, where appointments are needed for travel. Cultural highlights include a beloved drone opera that humorously contrasts its artistic interpretation with its practical origins from the past.
  3. The Ministry of Communication, based in Tower D, reflects changes in how people interact. It encourages a collaborative approach to resolve conflicts rather than deepening divides, showcasing how communication has evolved since the revolution.

How To Read A Novel

Adjacent Possible • 720 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Reading Novels Analysis History
  1. Reading novels helps us see things from different perspectives and understand complex emotions. This can make us smarter in our own lives.
  2. Books like _Middlemarch_ and _Bleak House_ connect many parts of life, from personal feelings to big social issues. They encourage us to think about how everything relates.
  3. Fiction gives us a unique view of history and how people lived in different times. It helps us feel what it was like to be in those past situations.

My 2024 in Reading (Plus Lessons from Tokarczuk's Prose)

Counter Craft • 464 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
📚 Literature Reading Fiction Prose Book Reviews Author analysis
  1. Reading logs can help track what books you've read and reflect on them at the end of the year. It's a nice way to see your habits and preferences over time.
  2. Books can offer unique storytelling methods like flexible perspectives and summarization that differ from film and TV. These features help create a richer narrative experience.
  3. It's important to diversify your reading choices, including different genres and authors. This can naturally lead to a more balanced reading year without feeling forced.

Coriolanus, literary theory, bad fiction, literary utility, Grimms, shelves, Public humanities, dead novels, fictional therapy, Where is our Milton of the space age?, Austen's sisters, AI art

The Common Reader • 992 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
📚 Literature Literary theory Fiction Classics Criticism
  1. Coriolanus explores how personal feelings and actions can influence society and politics. It's a reminder that we all share responsibility for the outcomes in our communities.
  2. Literary theory can be complex and off-putting, but it's important to differentiate between good criticism and jargon-heavy theory. Not all literary discussions need to be dense or confusing.
  3. New Historicism focuses heavily on the historical context of literature, which may lead to interpretations that ignore the text itself. It's important to balance historical insights with a direct reading of the literature.

When you dream, what do you dream about?

Soaring Twenties • 61 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Poetry Narrative Creative Writing
  1. Dreaming about love can feel very real and personal. It's a chance to think about what we truly desire in life.
  2. Fear often holds us back from chasing our dreams and expressing our feelings. Recognizing this fear is the first step to overcoming it.
  3. Living in the present is just as important as dreaming about the future. Enjoying today can lead to meaningful moments and connections.

Working Class Hero

Castalia • 699 implied HN points • 27 Jul 24
📚 Literature Short Stories Fiction Character Study
  1. Tyler thought he was destined for something special but was stuck in an office job until he decided to become an actor. His leap of faith led him to success, but it also changed his life dramatically.
  2. As Tyler became more successful, he struggled with personal relationships, especially with his girlfriend Rebecca. He felt like their lives were on different paths, leading to their eventual breakup.
  3. Despite his fame, Tyler faced doubts about the meaning of success. He reflected on the pressures of being a celebrity and the reality of his journey, realizing that true fulfillment might not come from being in the spotlight.

Aenean Age or American Eschaton?

Contemplations on the Tree of Woe • 3031 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Drama History Mythology
  1. Struggles can lead to new beginnings. Just like in ancient stories, facing hard times can give way to rebirth and new civilizations.
  2. Accepting failure without trying isn't the best choice. It's better to strive for a better future, even if it seems tough.
  3. Innovation can help us overcome challenges. Finding new ways, like using different materials, could lead to building a stronger society.

The Decline Will Occur Incrementally

Story Club with George Saunders • 50 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Essays Biography Classics
  1. Change happens slowly over time, it's not always sudden. You might not notice it day to day, but over the years, things can shift a lot.
  2. Understanding someone's struggles can come from their relationships, like in stories where personal lives influence their work. It shows how feelings and experiences shape creativity.
  3. Literature often reflects personal experiences, and authors might use their own lives in their stories. This can lead to some interesting insights about their characters.

A great "magical school" novel, a wonderfully '90s new thriller, and four tracks I've been enjoying

Read Max • 605 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
📚 Literature Books Fiction Fantasy Music
  1. There's a fantastic fantasy book set in a magical school that fans of the genre will love.
  2. A thrilling new movie reminiscent of '90s action classics like _Nick of Time_ and _Die Hard_ is worth checking out.
  3. Four great music tracks are highlighted that are currently enjoyed, perfect for music lovers to explore.

When Writing Fantasy, Kill Your Darlings. Literally.

The Bottom Feeder • 703 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Fantasy Storytelling Character development
  1. Killing characters can add emotional weight to a story. When a character dies, it can make the readers feel more suspense and connect emotionally to the narrative.
  2. It's important to time character deaths well in a story. Too many deaths can numb the audience, while too few can make a story feel cluttered and lacking in stakes.
  3. Character deaths should serve a purpose. They should reflect the story's themes and impact the narrative, making the audience feel the reality of loss and its significance.

My Year in Reading

The Audacity. • 5188 implied HN points • 10 Jan 24
📚 Literature Fiction Memoir Poetry Novel
  1. Favorite book: _All the Sinners Bleed_ by S.A. Cosby - a gripping Southern noir.
  2. Second favorite: _Family Meal_ by Bryan Washington - a poignant story of grief and finding love.
  3. Not every book is great - it's okay to have differing opinions on what you read.

love is a complicated business | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 24 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Drama Prose
  1. Love can be both beautiful and risky. It's like catching a falling star but can also hurt like a knife.
  2. Acceptance is a big part of love. Sometimes it means dealing with difficult feelings and waiting for something that may never come.
  3. Love is also shown in little moments, like unexpected kisses, and even in the stubbornness over who is right or wrong.

To All This Fuckery

The Lifeboat • 195 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Narrative Prose Short Stories
  1. The story explores deep thoughts and feelings about beauty and life's complexities. The main character feels disconnected while everyone else interacts, highlighting a struggle to feel present.
  2. Friendship and shared moments are shown to be important. The gathering at the dacha is cozy and enjoyable, even while the protagonist remains skeptical of their friendships.
  3. Drinking alcohol is a new experience for the protagonist, leading to thoughts about identity and control. She reflects on her life, her dreams of escape, and how these moments shape her perspective.

2024 Year-End Writing Round-Up

Counter Craft • 361 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Essays Publishing Author interviews
  1. The writer saw significant growth in their newsletter, which now has over 18,000 followers. It's nice to see how readers appreciate their work.
  2. They plan to publish a novel called 'Metallic Realms' in 2025, mixing genres like sci-fi and autofiction. They seem excited about this project.
  3. The writer shares valuable writing advice, emphasizing the importance of finishing projects and offers thoughts on writing techniques and publishing myths.

My Mormon Obsession

Castalia • 499 implied HN points • 24 Jul 24
📚 Literature Essays Fiction History Biography Cultural critique
  1. The author has written two novels about Mormonism, despite having no personal connection to the religion. They find the history and stories surrounding Mormonism fascinating.
  2. Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism, had a unique background that influenced his development as a leader. His early life was marked by treasure hunting and a strong sense of individualism.
  3. Mormonism grew in a time of religious enthusiasm and many followers were drawn to its intellectual appeal. Smith's charisma and the communal experiences helped shape the church's early success.

Describe a Mind, Running

Story Club with George Saunders • 72 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Writing Reading
  1. Tolstoy shows characters reacting to death in a cold way. This makes us think about how people can be selfish during tough times.
  2. Thought is complex and can show different levels at once. Writers often have to choose which thoughts to share.
  3. Tolstoy's choice to focus on the characters' selfish reactions serves a purpose. It makes us question why he chose to present them this way.