The hottest Fiction Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

the thought that spills out | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 42 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Non-fiction Essays Prose
  1. Poetry can give you confidence during tough moments, helping you communicate feelings you've been avoiding. It's like a comforting drink that encourages honest conversations.
  2. Emotional experiences can lead to tears, which poetry captures beautifully, showing how feelings can overwhelm us like an avalanche. It reminds us that emotions are powerful and can take control of our lives.
  3. Poetry often reflects the struggles we face, like long journeys in search of relief. It illustrates the challenges and the growth that comes from facing pain and searching for peace.

Book Release — Echoes of Tyranny: Freedom Lost

antoniomelonio • 17 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Books Dystopia Science fiction Storytelling
  1. The book 'Echoes of Tyranny: Freedom Lost' is a sequel that explores the aftermath of a revolution, showing how peace can quickly turn into chaos.
  2. The story features characters grappling with a dying land and a new threat, as an ambitious leader emerges promising order but brings old wounds back to life.
  3. It raises deep questions about power, rebellion, and human nature, highlighting how the line between freedom and oppression can blur.

The Long Battle

Castalia • 239 implied HN points • 29 Dec 23
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Narrative Creative Writing Character Study
  1. Art has a deep impact on personal identity and growth. Both Peter and Dorothy explore their backgrounds and how they shaped their artistic journeys.
  2. Friendship can be complicated by competition and insecurities. Peter admires Dorothy's talent but is also aware of the competitive dynamics in their social group.
  3. Tragedy can change how we view someone's life. Dorothy’s suicide makes Peter reflect on her artistic genius and what she went through, showing a contrast between her vibrant work and her struggles.

Win a collection of cli-fi stories

storyvoyager • 4 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories
  1. There is a book giveaway for a collection of climate fiction stories from a contest called 'Imagine 2200'. You can enter by subscribing and engaging with the post.
  2. The stories in the collection feature themes of sustainability, hope, and a deep connection with the environment. They offer imaginative visions of possible futures where people thrive.
  3. The narrative highlights personal experiences and choices, particularly around love and relationships in the context of the climate crisis and cultural heritage.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Books I Read in 2024

From the Desk • 18 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Book Reviews Reading habits Personal Reflection
  1. Reading has become more challenging due to distractions and life's demands, especially with young kids around. It’s hard to find time and focus to get lost in a book.
  2. Returning to old favorite books can reignite the joy of reading, as familiar stories often bring comfort and engagement. Some classics can really pull you in, no matter how many times you've read them.
  3. It's important to prioritize reading only good books. If a book isn’t engaging or enjoyable, it’s okay to put it down and move on to something better.

On Political Writing

Story Club with George Saunders • 70 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Art Politics Culture
  1. When writing political stories, it's important to elevate the narrative beyond just being an opinion piece. Aim for the story to resonate on a deeper, more universal level that will last beyond current events.
  2. A good story explores complexities instead of presenting a single viewpoint. This helps avoid alienating readers and opens up a space for deeper discussions within the narrative.
  3. Instead of forcing a political stance, let the story unfold naturally. Sometimes, the most powerful messages emerge when you allow the characters and plot to guide the direction.

The Future of Trantor Publishing

Trantor Publishing • 219 implied HN points • 06 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Writing Fiction Storytelling
  1. The author plans to start monetizing their Substack newsletter by offering exclusive content for paying subscribers while keeping most articles and reviews accessible for free subscribers.
  2. Paying subscribers will have the opportunity to influence the author's upcoming projects through polls and receive additional content like monthly exclusive short stories and chapter commentaries.
  3. The author provides insight into their upcoming projects, such as 'The Domes of Calrathia' and 'Gigaheroes', and teases an upcoming article discussing what Reactionary artists can learn from storytelling in Hollywood.

Best summer books 2023

The Shift With Sam Baker • 359 implied HN points • 22 Jun 23
📚 Literature Fiction Books Reading Book Club
  1. The article recommends some intriguing summer reads for 2023, including 'August Blue,' 'I Am Homeless If This Is Not My Home,' and 'The Guest.'
  2. There are also mentions of engaging family sagas like 'Watch Us Dance,' 'Hello Beautiful,' and 'Family Lore,' each with unique storylines and captivating settings.
  3. The post highlights assorted novels that delve into themes like female desire, mysterious disappearances, and self-discovery, such as 'Mrs S,' 'Killingly,' and 'The Late Americans.'

The New York Century

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 22 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Book launch Book Reviews
  1. The book _Glass Century_ is set to come out on May 6, 2025, and it tells a story about love and family from the 1970s to the pandemic.
  2. Pre-ordering the book is really important because it helps determine how many copies stores will order and how much attention the book gets.
  3. The author is planning book launch events and is open to traveling for readings in different cities if there’s interest.

long breath of winter | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 10 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Prose Literary Criticism
  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.

undefeated | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 38 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Short Stories Narrative
  1. True freedom comes from being in uncomfortable places without expectations. It’s about finding yourself in unexpected situations where you learn more about life.
  2. Even when life is tough, there are moments of peace among those who have very little. People keep waking up to face each new day, despite their struggles.
  3. Resilience is key. Despite hardship, some people still feel undefeated because they embrace their experiences, no matter how painful.

Gigaheroes

Trantor Publishing • 159 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
📚 Literature Fiction Fantasy Adventure Drama
  1. The protagonist, Adam Mason, grapples with his mortality and the choices he's made, reflecting on whether his life had meaning and pondering on the possibility of making a lasting impact on the world.
  2. Adam faces a tough decision when approached by the Ghost, weighing the option of working together to extend his life or risking it by going against him, showcasing the complexity of moral dilemmas and survival instincts.
  3. The storyline delves into themes of redemption, collaboration, and the struggle to find purpose in a bleak and deteriorating world, highlighting the internal conflicts faced by the characters.

It grows | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 21 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Essays Fiction Non-fiction Drama
  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.

just like a poet | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 31 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Prose Essays Fiction Non-fiction
  1. Poets often spend a lot of time reflecting alone, which can lead to deep thoughts and memories. It's a journey where they confront their feelings and experiences.
  2. Pain and hurt are significant themes for poets, but they can also serve as motivation to create. This process is about finding meaning amidst the emptiness they sometimes feel.
  3. Despite their struggles, poets continue to write and express themselves. A simple heartbeat is enough reason for them to keep exploring their thoughts and emotions.

Ceremony

The Recovering Academic • 237 implied HN points • 15 Dec 23
📚 Literature Fiction Memoir Poetry
  1. The author worked as a wilderness ranger and wrote 150 poems during one summer, but kept only a few of them.
  2. The poem 'Ceremony' shared in the post was inspired by the author's time spent in northern Idaho's wilderness.
  3. Readers can access the full post archives and enjoy a 7-day free trial by subscribing to The Recovering Academic.

Thanksgiving | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 28 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Prose Essays Narrative
  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.

At the Falls

The Recovering Academic • 336 implied HN points • 10 Aug 23
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction
  1. The post shares a poem titled 'At the Falls' about the experience of leaping into a pool below a waterfall and the sensations that follow.
  2. There is an invitation to a book club meeting to discuss a specific book, 'Dear Committee Members' by Julie Schumacher, catering to those interested in academic themes.
  3. The author reflects on a variety of content shared on their platform, including career-related interviews, poems, and book club meetings, showcasing a diverse range of topics.

inside every one is adventure | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 31 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Prose Creative Writing
  1. Everyone has their own adventures and experiences, even if they haven't traveled far. It's about the journey and what you learn along the way.
  2. Regrets can weigh you down, but they also remind you of your past and the choices you've made. It's important to find warmth and comfort within yourself.
  3. Nature plays a big role in our lives and thoughts. The beauty of trees, stars, and landscapes can inspire us to keep moving forward, despite challenges.

Dear John

gen yeet • 294 implied HN points • 30 Oct 23
📚 Literature Fiction Criticism Autofiction Review Short Story
  1. The story of 'Cat Person' delves into the complexities of modern dating and consent.
  2. The protagonist's reflections on past relationships highlight themes of self-discovery and evolving perceptions.
  3. The narrative explores the impact of personal experiences on individual identity and memory.

Three Strategies for Drafting Your Book

The Recovering Academic • 316 implied HN points • 15 Sep 23
📚 Literature Fiction Memoir Poetry
  1. Start with a problem and write toward resolution of it. Embrace the character's struggle and follow it to its conclusion.
  2. Identify the major turning point. Have a transformative moment that changes the narrative direction, building towards that climax.
  3. Map out 'tent pole' scenes. Plan key scenes between the opening and the climax to guide your writing journey.

What Are You Reading?

Knowledge Problem • 196 implied HN points • 03 Jan 24
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Essays
  1. The author had a good reading year in 2023, enjoying a variety of books and essays.
  2. The author recommends interesting works in fiction, nonfiction, and essays, sharing insights on different topics and genres.
  3. The author highlights the joy and value found in specific books, like 'The Individualists' and 'The Corporation and the Twentieth Century'.

End-of-Year Self-Congratulatory Gala

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 424 implied HN points • 28 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Art Literature History Fiction Comics
  1. The Figurative-to-Abstract Art Pipeline was the most popular post of 2023 with significant views, likes, comments, and subscribers.
  2. The Gold-Plated Man was acknowledged as the most under-appreciated post, despite being short, it made a strong, elegant point with good cover art.
  3. The post 'One Thousand and One Notes on 'One Thousand and One Nights'' was crowned as the best post of 2023 for its rich, aesthetic, and narrative qualities.

We find what we look for

Austin Kleon • 1358 implied HN points • 31 May 22
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Memoir Essays Philosophy
  1. We notice things based on what we are looking for. If we're not paying attention to something, we might miss it even if it's right in front of us.
  2. Our experiences are shaped by what we choose to focus on. What we find in the world depends on where we direct our attention.
  3. Different perspectives can lead to different interpretations of the same event. How we see things can change based on our interests and experiences.

Essay Club: In Praise of Silence by Vernon Lee

Mind & Mythos • 199 implied HN points • 30 Dec 23
📚 Literature Essays Fiction Biographies Art Music
  1. The author values silence and suggests that it can be more comforting than chatter. Sometimes, less talking can lead to deeper thoughts and peace of mind.
  2. Silence allows for reflection and helps us connect with our inner selves. It gives us space to think and appreciate our surroundings.
  3. Constant conversation can feel overwhelming and distracting. Embracing quiet moments can improve our mental well-being and creativity.

February Bookclub reveal

The Shift With Sam Baker • 159 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
📚 Literature Book Club Fiction Nostalgia
  1. The Shift With Sam Baker is a reader-supported publication, offering perks like joining the bookclub, winning free copies, and author Q&A by becoming a paid subscriber.
  2. This month's bookclub pick, 'The List of Suspicious Things' by Jennie Godfrey, is a unique coming-of-age tale set in 1979 with a child's view of society amidst a serial killer stalking West Yorkshire.
  3. The book provides a nostalgic look at 1979, featuring Margaret Thatcher as PM, drain pipe jeans, cherry lip gloss, and a more insightful exploration of society rather than just focusing on the crime aspect.

I am the poet (ode to Walt Whitman)

Tumbleweed Words • 31 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Drama Non-fiction
  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 Dodgers Jacket

The Recovering Academic • 158 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
📚 Literature Fiction Memoir Poetry
  1. The post is about a eulogy for the author's grandfather, focusing on defamiliarization to make the character more memorable.
  2. The author reflects on sharing the eulogy through a virtual service and the importance of highlighting quirks and oddities to make a eulogy effective.
  3. Full members can access the post with a 7-day free trial, showing appreciation for their support.

This Is Paradise

Life and Letters • 59 implied HN points • 13 May 24
📚 Literature History Romance Fiction Poetry Demography
  1. Infanticide was a common practice in many historical societies when families couldn't care for all their children. It often happened without legal punishment, especially against unwanted infants.
  2. Although Christianity introduced strong taboos against infanticide, it might not have completely stopped the practice. Evidence suggests that infanticide, particularly sex-selective infanticide, still occurred in Europe despite its legal prohibition.
  3. Infanticide impacts literature by influencing themes of abandonment and family dynamics. Many classic stories use these themes to convey deeper truths about society and the struggles people faced.

Publication Is Not the Point of Writing

The Fairest Writer • 2 HN points • 17 Sep 24
📚 Literature Writing Fiction Education Creativity Publishing
  1. Writing should be about improving your skills, not just getting published. Focusing on growth makes you a better writer.
  2. Publication is just an indicator of your writing ability, like a chess rating. It’s not the main goal; getting better is.
  3. It's important to write for yourself and learn, rather than stress about where you’ll get published. The right opportunities will come when you improve.

The Half-Finished House

The Abbey of Misrule • 260 implied HN points • 03 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration History Culture Travel Literature Fiction
  1. The coastal walk in Ardmore, County Waterford, Ireland, offers layers of history including industrial mines, revolutionary soldiers, and slave raids, showcasing the area's rich and varied past.
  2. Father O'Donnell's wellhouse, built with the intention of healing properties, remains unfinished due to a local complaint to the priest, halting the project and leaving it frozen in time a century later.
  3. The incomplete wellhouse serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of peaceful times and the enduring presence of ruins along coastlines, highlighting the intertwined stories of ambition, social dynamics, and history.

How to Write a Story

Nice Try • 299 implied HN points • 31 Aug 23
📚 Literature Writing Fiction Storytelling Drafting Creative Process
  1. Drafting a story is important. You often start with something rough and improve it step by step until it feels right.
  2. Titles can change a lot during the writing process. It's normal to go through several names before settling on one that fits your story.
  3. Writing takes experimenting with ideas. You can mix genres and characters, and even make changes that seem silly until you find what works best.

Booksbooksbooks 12/24

GOOD INTERNET • 13 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Non-fiction Authors Genres
  1. Different books can have very mixed reviews. Some might have a few great stories while others are less enjoyable.
  2. Authors like Stephen King and Adrian Tchaikovsky often explore deep themes in their works, blending genres like science fiction and horror.
  3. Books about philosophy and climate change offer unique insights and perspectives on society's challenges, encouraging readers to think critically about our world today.

Story: BEING RIGHT

So Here’s a Thing • 275 implied HN points • 21 Jun 23
📚 Literature Fiction
  1. The story 'Being Right' is part of an online collection by michaelmarshallsmith
  2. Paid subscribers get benefits like access to this story and other upcoming ones in the collection
  3. Subscribers can easily upgrade or unsubscribe, making it flexible to manage their membership

Tolkien on Machines, Power, Language, Love, War, and Everything Else

Nothing Human • 23 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Mythology Philosophy Language
  1. Tolkien believed that technology and machines can create more problems than they solve, leading to endless labor and new evils. He saw a deep connection between power and the fall of humanity.
  2. The themes of love and relationships in Tolkien's writings reveal the complexities and challenges in human connections, especially concerning sexuality and friendship. He emphasized that true love requires self-denial and understanding.
  3. Tolkien wanted to create epic stories that reflected deeper truths about life, death, and morality, including the idea that all stories revolve around a fall, highlighting human struggles and the search for meaning.