The hottest Fiction Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Culture Topics

My 2024 in Reading

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 12 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
📚 Literature Books Fiction Nonfiction Writing Reading
  1. This year, the person read 58 books, mostly fiction, and found new favorite authors and stories. They believe fiction is important for understanding our world.
  2. They're excited to launch a new book review magazine to support new writers and literary culture. They think there’s a revival happening in how people engage with books.
  3. The person is releasing a new novel titled 'Glass Century' in May 2025. They're also looking forward to touring and sharing their experiences with readers in different cities.

Here Be Dragons!

Fields & Energy • 239 implied HN points • 03 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Fiction Literature Philosophy Art Mythology
  1. Dragons symbolize power and temptation, representing the dangers of being seduced by false promises. They serve as a reminder of the fight between good and evil in our desires.
  2. Electromagnetism plays a crucial role in communication and technology, influencing how we receive and interpret information. This reflects the battle between freedom and control in today's world.
  3. Fiction can reveal truths about our reality, helping us understand complex ideas like morality and human nature. Stories like _Draco Alchemicus_ can shine a light on these deeper truths.

A Bone to Pick (With Me)

Story Club with George Saunders • 37 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Criticism
  1. The importance of intention in writing is significant. It's about understanding what you want to communicate and why it matters.
  2. Engaging with feedback can enhance the writing process. Listening to others can provide new perspectives and improve your work.
  3. Creative exercises can be beneficial. They can stimulate ideas and help writers think outside the box.

Rubble

Nice Try • 319 implied HN points • 03 Aug 23
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Prose Creative Writing Artistic expression
  1. Love can be chaotic and unpredictable, just like falling for someone who may not be good for you. It's important to embrace the wild moments, even if they come with risks.
  2. Life is about enjoying the small things and finding happiness in unexpected experiences. Sometimes, we just have to let go and live in the moment.
  3. The messiness of life can be humorous and relatable, like dealing with the aftermath of silly events or maintaining connections with people we care about.
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August bookclub reveal

The Shift With Sam Baker • 259 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
📚 Literature Bookclub Biography Fiction Memoir
  1. The Shift With Sam Baker bookclub reveals a book blending memoir, biography, and fiction about George Orwell's wife, Eileen O'Shaughnessy.
  2. The book focuses on giving recognition to Eileen O'Shaughnessy, who has been overlooked in history.
  3. Anna Funder discovered Eileen O'Shaughnessy and decided to shed light on her story through this unique book.

Gentlemen Prefer Bitches

Castalia • 259 implied HN points • 23 Sep 23
📚 Literature Short Stories Fiction Narrative Character development Themes
  1. Sometimes people get stuck in unhealthy relationships because they're attracted to those who treat them poorly. It can feel easier to focus all their energy on making one person happy instead of working on themselves.
  2. It's important to value yourself and set boundaries in relationships. If someone isn't meeting your needs, it's okay to speak up and expect respect.
  3. Being a strong and nurturing person in relationships can lead to growth, but it's crucial to communicate openly and honestly about expectations to avoid being taken for granted.

You're smart

Becoming Noble • 259 implied HN points • 12 May 23
🎭️ Culture Art & Illustration Literature Fiction Faith & Spirituality Humor
  1. Encourage readers' opinions: The author appreciates readers' sophisticated contributions and encourages them to voice their thoughts more frequently.
  2. Engaging with cultural works: The discussion delves into the interpretation of cultural works like Harry Potter in terms of political ideologies, showcasing diverse perspectives.
  3. Joining liberal organizations: The importance of engaging with different viewpoints and building with people who promote progress and meritocracy is highlighted.

the difference between you & them is luck | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 31 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Creative Writing Narrative Artistic expression
  1. Luck can often make a big difference between people. Some people get more opportunities simply because of chance.
  2. Living in tough conditions can be isolating and hard. The narrator describes a bleak living situation, which reflects feelings of confinement.
  3. Finding comfort or entertainment in everyday surroundings can be a coping strategy. The narrator counts bottles and needles as a way to distract from loneliness.

20250119

Curious futures (KGhosh) • 4 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Philosophy Narrative Drama Social Commentary
  1. Missile attacks have now caused more deaths among airline passengers than traditional accidents. This shows a shift in safety concerns for flying.
  2. In-flight Wi-Fi is getting better with new tech like Starlink, allowing passengers to enjoy streaming while flying. It's a fun way to pass the time, but it raises questions about privacy.
  3. The trend towards alcohol-free drinks is growing, reflecting a change in lifestyle choices. Passengers seem to enjoy these healthier options while traveling.

"Boule de Suif"

Story Club with George Saunders • 41 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Essays Critique Teaching
  1. The story 'Boule de Suif' explores themes of sacrifice and morality. It shows how people's values can change in difficult situations.
  2. The character of Boule de Suif represents strength and resilience despite facing judgment from others. She's a strong woman in a challenging world.
  3. The setting of the story highlights the impact of war on individuals and society. It reveals how external conflicts can shape personal choices.

The Helicopter Pilot

The Recovering Academic • 237 implied HN points • 01 Sep 23
📚 Literature Fiction Memoir Poetry
  1. The writing life requires dedication to craft, but publication isn't solely merit-based. Sometimes themes matter more than art in getting noticed.
  2. On platforms like Substack, embracing diverse interests can be more engaging for readers. It's okay to explore various topics instead of sticking to a single niche.
  3. Finding connections between seemingly different subjects is valuable, reflecting the essence of liberal arts. Embracing personal standards can lead to seeing all work as valuable.

I Cordially Invite You to Unsubscribe

Orbis Tertius • 402 implied HN points • 30 Oct 23
📚 Literature Writing Philosophy Art Mindfulness Fiction
  1. The author invites readers to unsubscribe from their newsletter, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing what captures your attention.
  2. The author shares their transition from science and technology to literature and philosophy, influenced by mindfulness and meditation.
  3. The author aims to create unique and unconventional content, focusing on writing that challenges norms and embraces individual expression.

Story: DEAR ALISON

So Here’s a Thing • 235 implied HN points • 25 Sep 23
📚 Literature Fiction
  1. The story 'DEAR ALISON' is part of an online collection and is available for paid subscribers only, offering new stories bi-weekly.
  2. Paid subscribers can earn benefits by referring friends to the Substack, with discounts available for those referred.
  3. Readers can enjoy a 7-day free trial to access the full post archives of 'DEAR ALISON' by subscribing to 'So Here's a Thing.'

Progress Report for Paid Subscribers #4

Trantor Publishing • 79 implied HN points • 23 Mar 24
📚 Literature Fiction Podcasts Audio Writing Storytelling
  1. The author is updating paid subscribers on the progress of exclusive content, like a short story, despite setbacks from family issues.
  2. There's a proposal to let subscribers decide on focusing efforts on finishing Gigaheroes, a popular serial, rather than returning to the regular schedule after disruptions.
  3. The author shares updates on completed audio chapters for The Domes of Calrathia and Gigaheroes, along with links to playlists for listeners.

Windows

Soaring Twenties • 262 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Essays Fiction Film
  1. The Symposium on Windows features a variety of creative works like essays, fiction, and short films.
  2. Different artists interpret the theme of Windows in unique and imaginative ways.
  3. The Symposium is a platform for artists to showcase their creativity and talent to a wider audience.

Essay Club: Why I Write by George Orwell

Mind & Mythos • 179 implied HN points • 18 Nov 23
📚 Literature Essays Fiction Non-fiction Writing Criticism
  1. George Orwell wanted to make political writing more artistic and impactful. He believed that writing should not just inform, but also engage the reader emotionally.
  2. Orwell reflected on his personal motivations for writing, showing that his experiences shaped his views and style. He felt that understanding one’s own reasons for writing is crucial.
  3. His work reminds us that writing can be a powerful tool for social change. Orwell believed that through good writing, we can influence thoughts and inspire action.

Mutiny in the North Woods

The Recovering Academic • 217 implied HN points • 14 Jul 23
📚 Literature Fiction Memoir Poetry
  1. The story recounts a firefighting crew's experiences in fighting fires in northern Alberta, highlighting the challenges and dynamics within the team.
  2. The crew faces issues of safety, boredom, and discipline, leading to a situation of potential mutiny against their leader.
  3. Ultimately, the crew's misdeeds are brought to light, resulting in a stern reprimand from their Fire Management Officer, showcasing the importance of accountability in high-stakes situations.

Story: SAVE AS...

So Here’s a Thing • 216 implied HN points • 07 Jul 23
📚 Literature Fiction
  1. The third story in the online collection is titled 'SAVE AS...' and is for paid subscribers only.
  2. Subscribers can refer friends to get discounted rates and other benefits.
  3. The story subscription offers a 7-day free trial for new readers to explore the full post archives.

My Year in Books - 2024

Tippets by Taps • 6 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Biographies Science fiction Literary Criticism
  1. Reading can bring new ideas and perspectives. It’s fun to dive into different stories and learn from various authors.
  2. Science fiction is becoming more relevant as technology advances. Many readers are excited to explore how these ideas might relate to our future.
  3. It's great to share book recommendations with friends. Asking others about their favorite reads can lead to discovering new and interesting books.

Books I Enjoyed This Year

The Analog Family • 139 implied HN points • 19 Dec 23
📚 Literature Fiction Nonfiction Book Reviews Reading Lists Author studies
  1. Books like 'Tom Lake' and 'Lessons in Chemistry' offer deep family stories and relatable characters. They remind us about the importance of family bonds and overcoming challenges.
  2. 'How to Think' sheds light on how people think and interact with others. It shows that thinking independently is tough because we are influenced by those around us.
  3. Sarah Ruhl's 'Smile' is a powerful memoir that explores personal struggles and resilience. It shows how one's journey can inspire others and highlight the complexity of life.

In Which, for the First Time...

Story Club with George Saunders • 41 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Essays Reviews Analysis Authors
  1. The author discusses being inspired by reading 'The Street of Crocodiles' and how it moved them. It's a good idea to read different authors and see what we can learn from them.
  2. There was also a mention of an essay about Bruno Schulz that was appreciated by a reader. Sharing interesting articles can spark good conversations.
  3. The post seems to focus on literature and connecting with other readers. Engaging with a community around books can enhance our reading experience.

Turning another page

thegreataffair • 98 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
📚 Literature Writing Journalism Fiction Reading Creativity
  1. The author is reflecting on a new creative phase in her life, feeling the need to break away from previous patterns and explore new ways of storytelling.
  2. She is grappling with the challenges of being a freelancer in the journalism industry, contemplating the balance between passion for writing and the practicalities of making a living.
  3. The author is prioritizing following her heart in her writing endeavors, embracing curiosity and a broader approach to storytelling, even if it means taking risks and stepping outside conventional journalism.

Three Things: Week 44.23

The Analog Family • 179 implied HN points • 01 Nov 23
📚 Literature Fiction Book Reviews Author insights Writing Tips
  1. Crime novels can be fascinating and well-written, as they involve detailed plots and character development. The author suggests that even those who don't usually enjoy dark themes might find them appealing.
  2. John Steinbeck cleverly used reverse psychology to encourage his kids to read by locking books away and making them feel curious about what was inside. This approach shows how sometimes making things off-limits can spark interest.
  3. Feeling lost after losing a job can be tough, but it's also a time to explore what you want for your future. Focusing on what you can control and keeping positive thoughts can help navigate through aimlessness.

"Boule de Suif"

Story Club with George Saunders • 37 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Drama Essays Short Stories
  1. "Boule de Suif" is a story by Guy de Maupassant that explores themes of social class and morality during difficult times.
  2. The version discussed is from 1922, and it's helpful to have a printed copy with numbered pages for easier reference.
  3. This discussion is intended for paid subscribers, highlighting the exclusivity of the content and insights provided.

What Owning Nothing is Like

Litverse • 199 implied HN points • 20 Jul 23
📚 Literature History Culture Philosophy Fiction
  1. Ownership and identity are intertwined - renting can affect how we see ourselves and where we belong.
  2. The history of Ireland reveals a stark division between those who own land and those who do not, leading to dire consequences.
  3. Shared beliefs and a common future are crucial to building a society, especially when class divisions are deep and trust is lacking.

A rattlesnake poem

The Recovering Academic • 197 implied HN points • 14 Aug 23
📚 Literature Fiction Memoir Poetry
  1. The process of getting published in literary magazines can be unpredictable, and sometimes personal connections or misunderstandings can play a significant role in acceptance.
  2. As a writer, it's important to have a thick skin and believe in your work even when faced with rejection or differing interpretations of your writing.
  3. Writing, like art, has the power to communicate personal experiences in a way that can resonate with strangers and create a shared connection over time.

Too Much Exposition...

Development Hell • 197 implied HN points • 14 Sep 23
📚 Literature Writing Notes Fiction
  1. Getting feedback on your writing can be both painful and useful, like having your homework marked but for work you care about.
  2. There's always room for improvement in writing, even if you've done your best, because sometimes it takes time for the flaws to become apparent.
  3. Dealing with notes on 'too much exposition' can be frustrating, but it's important to approach feedback with grace, openness, and equanimity.

What Odradek is like

The Leftovers • 119 implied HN points • 06 Jan 24
📚 Literature Fiction Narrative Analysis
  1. Odradek is a mysterious, ominous presence described as a flat star-shaped spool with tangled threads of various colors that lurks in different places and can be difficult to define or understand.
  2. Talking openly about Odradek has become a common topic among various groups and individuals, but many people who experience Odradek's effects may refrain from discussing it directly, despite its persistent presence.
  3. Odradek takes on different shapes and forms, evolving from a spool of thread to a multifaceted entity that can impact individuals in various ways.

The Domes of Calrathia

Trantor Publishing • 179 implied HN points • 27 Oct 23
📚 Literature Fiction Adventure Fantasy Action Drama
  1. Prepare for challenges in a two-month journey across the Great Ice Plain, facing threats like blizzards and cannibals, and surviving on fish until reaching Myz.
  2. In a desolate city like Terminus, where ruins mark its decay, unexpected encounters and acts of bravery can unite strangers against common threats.
  3. Honorable actions and standing up for the helpless can lead to surprising alliances and outcomes, even in the face of danger and betrayal.

The Domes of Calrathia

Trantor Publishing • 99 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
📚 Literature Fiction Philosophy Health & Wellness Comics
  1. Uncertainty and anxiety can torment us, but training the mind to let go of attachments can lead to inner peace.
  2. The Zenoist philosophy advocates for tolerating both good and evil to reach a state of tranquility, but few can fully embrace this way of life.
  3. Choosing to offer forgiveness and support to others, even in the face of suffering and despair, can bring unexpected connections and opportunities for redemption.