The hottest Literary Criticism Substack posts right now

The Great Gatsby is a widely celebrated American novel with enduring popularity and critical acclaim.
F. Scott Fitzgerald's personal struggles and the novel's initial lukewarm reception contrast with its eventual rise to literary fame.
The Great Gatsby explores themes of hope, anxiety, and the American Dream through its characters and social backdrop.

Edgar Allan Poe faced many struggles in his life but his writing talent shined through.
The mysterious circumstances of Poe's death added to his dark and macabre reputation.
Despite attempts to tarnish Poe's legacy, his work continues to be celebrated while his detractors are forgotten.

Contrary to our everyday intuition, our 'self' is not a static entity but a dynamic process.
David Hume made significant contributions to free market economics.
Instapoetry may sound nice, but true poetry needs to feel genuine and true.

Literary talent isn't limited to the young - age should not define creativity.
Many famous novelists produced their notable works later in life.
There should be recognition for late blooming artists in addition to young talent lists.

The Science of Storytelling emphasizes the concept that story emerges naturally from human minds.
The Sense of an Ending explores the idea that everyone constructs their own life's story with a sense of an ending.
The novel intertwines fiction and metafiction, presenting itself as a study in the theory of fiction.

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The author shares a letter to Rebecca discussing the casual and informal nature of modern communication, especially in comparison to classic literature like 'Sense and Sensibility'.
The author reflects on gender dynamics in literature and creative writing classes, noting the predominance of women participants, which sparks humorous interactions and discussions.
The text delves into the concept of unsent letters and the cathartic purpose they serve, highlighted through an AI-generated 'Letter to Rebecca That Is Not a Letter'.

Poetry can convey multiple meanings and dimensions, leading to different interpretations and nuances.
In Hamlet, perfect knowledge can lead to hesitation and inaction, showcasing the struggle of decision-making.
The soliloquies in Hamlet capture a mix of torment, humor, and contemplation, reflecting the theme of hesitation versus impulsive action.

Author discusses the idea of categorizing "problematic" readers as opposed to authors, reflecting on the nature of online discourse and cancel culture.
The author expresses discomfort with the practice of creating blacklists, even for individuals deserving of criticism, highlighting a broader concern around the impact of such actions.
The post explores the concept of classifying readers based on problematic behavior, suggesting a shift in focus towards understanding reader behavior in online literary circles.

Graham Greene, the author of The Quiet American, led a fascinating life with experiences that influenced his writing.
The novel accurately predicted the US invasion of Vietnam and explored complex themes of American involvement.
Through its impartial portrayal of characters and themes, The Quiet American challenges readers to think critically about real-world complexities.