The hottest Literature Substack posts right now

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The Persistence Of A 14th-C. UX

Technohumanism • 79 implied HN points • 23 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. A 14th-century book called a girdle book was designed to be carried and read easily, even though it was heavy and unusual for its time. This shows how humans have always needed practical ways to enjoy reading.
  2. The book was made for spiritual reading, likely by a monk, showing how closely books were tied to religious practices back then. Even without fancy pictures, it was meant for deep study.
  3. Despite its age, this old book’s design is still effective and user-friendly today. It illustrates how good ideas in design can last for centuries.

The Only Cure For Internet Poisoning

Reactionary Feminist • 26 implied HN points • 01 Feb 26
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Relying on AI and constant internet access risks a "Great Forgetting" by outsourcing memory and the mental habits needed to think deeply, letting key cognitive faculties wither.
  2. Medieval mnemonic practices and the idea of a tactile, inner "wax tablet" show that deliberate, embodied memorization shapes how we form and hold ideas.
  3. The antidote to internet poisoning is intentional cultivation of non-digital memory—through memorization, meditation, prayer, and other ars memoriae techniques—to rebuild inner resources and preserve cultural thought.

An Exquisite Panorama of Links & Recs

Culture Study • 2103 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The author discusses women's sports and gender issues in a recent podcast episode, offering a unique perspective compared to mainstream media.
  2. They are taking a break for a cycling trip but have gathered some recommended readings to share, focusing on topics outside of politics.
  3. Paid subscribers can access additional content and discussions each week, which includes in-depth threads and personal insights.

Interlude: On Tour, Part 2

From the Desk of Alicia Kennedy • 1238 implied HN points • 25 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The author had a busy and eventful book tour, visiting various cities and meeting new people.
  2. The author encountered challenges, like traffic and time constraints, during the tour.
  3. The author enjoyed engaging with audiences, trying different foods, and exploring new places during the tour.

Lesotho

Cosmographia • 1238 implied HN points • 05 Oct 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature
  1. The content is part of an Atlas' Notes series, focusing on art, poetry, literature, cartography, and photography related to specific locations.
  2. Viewing the full post or subscribing may require payment.
  3. The post includes visual elements like images to enhance the content.
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Here Come the Allodidacts

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 1451 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Reading can be lonely, but sharing the experience with others makes it richer and more meaningful. It opens up opportunities for deep conversations and connections.
  2. Deep reading focuses on truly engaging with texts, often through discussions and activities that enhance understanding. It's not just about reading a lot, but about understanding and connecting with what you're reading.
  3. Creating spaces for people to read together can revitalize the love for reading and learning. These environments help break away from distractions and allow for serious contemplation and growth.

On Cultural Relativism and some books I've recently read

Chris Arnade Walks the World • 1510 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Cultural differences really shape how people behave and interact. Some cultures have strong values like respect and responsibility, which can lead to better experiences in daily life.
  2. Traveling can be a mix of good and bad experiences, but visiting different places teaches us a lot. Some regions may offer more enjoyable or meaningful interactions than others.
  3. Books can provide deep insights into culture and history. Reading helps us understand different perspectives and can be an enriching part of traveling.

Festooning Ferns

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 399 implied HN points • 28 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The Stone Bridge, built in the 1930s, is a beautiful example of WPA architecture that blends with the natural landscape. It's made from local sandstone and has striking arches that enhance its charm.
  2. Licorice ferns are unique plants that grow on trees and bridges, adding to the natural beauty around us. They were also used by Indigenous peoples for their sweet flavor and medicinal properties.
  3. In the Pacific Northwest, many plants thrive in the moist climate, often found decorating trees and structures. This shows how nature can adapt and flourish in urban settings.

Richard Dawkins and the British genius

Wrong Side of History • 769 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Richard Dawkins is a leading figure in making complex scientific ideas understandable to everyone. His work, especially 'The Selfish Gene,' has changed how people think about evolution and behavior.
  2. Dawkins has a strong belief in science as a way to better understand the world, often expressing skepticism towards religion. He sees a conflict between scientific thinking and certain ideologies, especially those he believes contradict basic biological truths.
  3. His views about religion, particularly Islam, have made him a controversial figure. While he values open inquiry and skepticism, critics say he can be harsh and dismissive, showing how discussions about belief can be very divisive.

You Gotta Have Taste

The Biblioracle Recommends • 707 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Develop your own taste and don't be swayed by external opinions.
  2. Resist the influence of algorithms and prioritize trusting your own reactions.
  3. Exploring and articulating your taste is part of knowing yourself and resisting a culture of consumption.

Best of The Free Press: We’re All Gonna Make It

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1799 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Even in tough times, there's a sense of optimism that things can get better. It's about hoping for change and taking action instead of giving in to despair.
  2. People are finding joy in unexpected places, like celebrating together even when plans go wrong. It's about making the best out of challenging situations.
  3. There’s a shift in how young people view education, with many choosing southern colleges over prestigious Ivy League schools for a more enjoyable experience and a different environment.

Ice and owls

Austin Kleon • 2757 implied HN points • 03 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. February often feels repetitive, almost like every day is the same. It can serve as a reminder of life's cycles, feeling like we're stuck in an ice storm each year.
  2. A '30-minute noticing workout' can help people become more mindful and spark creativity. It encourages taking time to observe the world around us.
  3. With the right tools, like a spotting scope and a camera app, you can enjoy and capture nature, like watching owls in your backyard.

Introducing a New Saturday Series: The Prophets

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 4382 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
🚌 Education Literature
  1. Marshall McLuhan's insights into the impact of electric technology on society were ahead of his time, making him a visionary from the past.
  2. McLuhan believed that new electronic media changes the way people use their senses, affecting how they think and respond, leading to new identities and societal forms.
  3. Despite not being universally understood, McLuhan worked to empower people to understand and choose how they engage with technology in their lives.

Firsts of the year

Austin Kleon • 2977 implied HN points • 06 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The author shared their first creative projects of the year, including collages and vegetable printmaking. It's a great way to start the year with fresh artistic ideas.
  2. They mentioned their diverse reading choices, highlighting the joy of exploring different books and authors. Reading can keep your mind engaged and expand your knowledge.
  3. The author reflected on recent celebrity deaths, reminding us to appreciate influential figures in arts and culture. Remembering their contributions helps us honor their legacy.

Diversity's Betrayal

Glenn Loury • 2579 implied HN points • 23 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Embracing discomfort is necessary for personal growth and development.
  2. Encountering diverse ideas and perspectives is crucial for a well-rounded education.
  3. Seeing representation in positions of power can impact one's comfort and success, but true progress lies in embracing diversity beyond one's own identity.

Dark Magic

Becoming Noble • 1196 implied HN points • 28 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Harry Potter stories can be seen as carrying right-wing connotations despite the denotations of inclusivity and equality, which can influence different types of readers in varying ways.
  2. The Harry Potter series provides a case study on how stories can reduce prejudice and promote empathy towards marginalized groups, ultimately leading readers towards left-leaning ideologies.
  3. The manipulation of underlying themes in media, like Harry Potter, can be a tactic to shift the political perspectives of audiences, particularly those on the right, by using right-wing subtexts to convey left-wing messages.

The book that changed my life

Austin Kleon • 6074 implied HN points • 15 Mar 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The book 'Steal Like an Artist' encourages creativity by showing that it's okay to borrow ideas from others. It teaches that creating something new often comes from remixing existing concepts.
  2. The author had a significant life change after writing this book, leading him to quit his job and pursue his passion full-time. This shows how following your creative journey can lead to unexpected opportunities.
  3. The book's unique style and design were influenced by personal limitations and a desire to create something that felt handmade and authentic. It reminds us that constraints can sometimes spark the most creativity.

🔚 Lessons from the end of the world: Why we take civilization for granted

Faster, Please! • 639 implied HN points • 11 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. A simpler life isn't really simple; it's often just a more curated and modern version with extra comforts like solar panels and events.
  2. Many dystopian stories have hidden messages about the importance of progress and not rejecting it, even if it's hard to see at first.
  3. Media can show us the risks of ignoring advancements, like asteroid tracking, which is important for protecting our lives and future.

The Monday Media Diet with Nadine Choe

Why is this interesting? • 1387 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Podcasts are great for learning and understanding different perspectives. They let you hear from interesting people in a simple and engaging way.
  2. Reading various newsletters can keep you updated on current trends, especially in hospitality and fashion. Finding unique voices in journalism makes the stories more enjoyable.
  3. Exploring your inner self, like through psychedelics, can help you understand your thoughts and reactions better. This understanding can improve your life and relationships.

Remember the Fallen

Diane Francis • 999 implied HN points • 11 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Canadians honor those who died in wars by wearing poppies each year. It's a way to remember the sacrifices made by soldiers.
  2. The poem 'In Flanders Fields' by John MacRae highlights the theme of sacrifice and remembrance. It's a touching piece that resonates with many people.
  3. Commemorative events like the 20-gun salute remind us of the ongoing impact of wars and the importance of remembering the fallen. Even today, we can reflect on their bravery.

Where you look is where you go

Austin Kleon • 2797 implied HN points • 20 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Where you focus your attention affects your direction in life. Just like biking, if you look in a certain way, that's where you'll end up.
  2. Reading and exploring new stories, whether in books or through documentaries, can provide insights and deepen your understanding of various subjects.
  3. Having fun and enjoying art, like comedy specials or music, is important for a balanced life. It adds joy and connection to our everyday experiences.

Tuesday Thread: How Do You Know When To Quit?

Culture Study • 2000 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. It's important to know when to quit something that isn't working for you. Sometimes, sticking it out can be a waste of time.
  2. You need to find a balance between perseverance and knowing when to let go. Each situation is different, so consider your feelings and results.
  3. Whether it's a book, a hobby, or a job, listen to your intuition. If you're unhappy, it might be time to move on.

What Are You Reading (In November)??

Culture Study • 1897 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Consider supporting local families in need, like helping them afford a van for transportation. It can make a huge difference for their daily lives.
  2. Stay mindful of consumerism during the holiday season. Focus on meaningful gifts and contributions rather than just buying for the sake of it.
  3. Engage in discussions about what others are reading. Sharing book recommendations can lead to great conversations and new perspectives.

The Movie Will Begin In Five Moments

Public Universal Friend • 19 implied HN points • 03 Sep 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Loneliness can feel overwhelming, but it can often be soothed with small comforts like food or company. It’s important to find things that can help lift that heavy feeling.
  2. Boredom is a significant trigger for risky behaviors, and it's important to address it by seeking connection and friendship. Making friends can help ease feelings of isolation.
  3. As we grow older, we often deal with deeper feelings and struggles that can feel like they grow out of us, but we keep trying to support one another. We all have a role in helping each other through the tough times.

Tradwife Dilemma, Genetic History, The Great Gatsby

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1534 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Women are seen as equally attractive in both luxury and standard settings, which shows that appearance is more about the person than their surroundings.
  2. There’s been a big change in how Americans feel about college; many now think it’s not that important for their kids, unlike in the past.
  3. Interestingly, the wealthier a person was, the more likely they were to support ideas like defunding the police, which challenges common assumptions about money and social issues.

The Daddies

SBJournal • 628 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The Daddies were supportive figures in the porn industry, providing inspiration and practical help.
  2. The Daddies had a deep understanding of beauty, sex, death, and transformation, without seeking mainstream approval.
  3. The Daddies' generosity and support created a mutual inspiration with the author, fostering a unique bond during a period of sexual revolution.

Zanzibar

Cosmographia • 1138 implied HN points • 30 Aug 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature
  1. The post is about Zanzibar and is part of the Atlas' Notes series on art, poetry, literature, cartography, and photography.
  2. The content is available to paid subscribers only.
  3. Readers can subscribe to access the full post and content on Cosmographia.

What's got my attention this week #31

The Shift With Sam Baker • 698 implied HN points • 05 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Sam Baker's newsletter highlights articles about powerful women over 50, personal style, and the legacy of Kids Company founder Camila Batmanghelidjh.
  2. The newsletter features thought-provoking pieces on the concept of home and age-gap relationships.
  3. To access the full content and weekly essays, becoming a paid subscriber is suggested.

A Funny Thing About Dave Barry

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 547 implied HN points • 20 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Dave Barry is a unique humorist who managed to make people laugh consistently, even in a stiff newspaper environment. His style stood out in a genre that often felt bland.
  2. His popularity soared during the late 1980s, making him a well-known figure with a wide readership and even his own TV show. This shows how effective his humor was.
  3. Barry received a Pulitzer Prize, which demonstrates that he could impress even those who typically don’t appreciate humor. Getting laughs from serious critics is no easy feat.

York

Cosmographia • 1118 implied HN points • 02 Aug 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature
  1. This post is part of the Atlas’ Notes series on Cosmographia, centered around a specific place with a mix of art, poetry, and literature.
  2. The content in the post is exclusive for paid subscribers of Cosmographia, offering a deeper dive into a particular topic.
  3. The post features work by M. E. Rothwell and provides a link for interested readers to subscribe to access more content.

What I'm reading about Iran, a great new 'Heat'-like heist thriller, and more

Read Max • 658 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. There's a collection of articles that help explain the U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran. It’s good material for anyone wanting to understand the situation better.
  2. A new heist thriller movie has been released that feels similar to the classic film 'Heat.' It's a must-see for fans of action and suspense.
  3. The post also shares some great music recommendations. If you're looking for fresh tracks to listen to, there are four new ones highlighted.

Notebooks in movies

Austin Kleon • 2657 implied HN points • 17 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Notebooks often play important roles in movies. Examples include Indiana Jones' diary and the many notebooks in Se7en.
  2. These notebooks can inspire people to start their own journaling or note-taking habits. Many viewers are motivated to express themselves creatively after seeing these films.
  3. Films frequently explore themes of documentation and memory through notebooks. They show how writing can reflect a character's thoughts and experiences.

Poor Things and Past Lives

Castalia • 399 implied HN points • 16 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The movie 'Poor Things' explores female sexuality in a bold and open way. It shows the journey of a woman named Bella as she navigates her desires and experiences self-discovery through various relationships.
  2. In contrast, 'Past Lives' is seen as a less engaging film. It presents a story about characters who struggle to make meaningful connections, feeling lost in their choices and societal expectations.
  3. Both films address the complexities of relationships, but 'Poor Things' does so with more depth, highlighting the challenges women face in their journey, while 'Past Lives' feels flat and fails to invoke much emotion.

SUPER STURGEON MOON 2023

The Lunar Dispatch • 1100 implied HN points • 01 Aug 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature
  1. Recently, there was a hearing about UFOs where officials confirmed secretive programs
  2. There was a simulation of receiving a message from aliens sent by media artist Daniela de Paulis
  3. Learning about people like Stanley Kubrick and John Lennon who had interesting encounters and beliefs related to aliens

Songs on the Death of Children

Something to Consider • 99 implied HN points • 05 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Friedrich Rückert wrote hundreds of poems after losing his children, showing how deeply grief can affect a parent. It's a powerful reminder of how loss can inspire profound creativity.
  2. People in the past faced death more regularly, especially with children. It's important to recognize that they felt grief just as strongly as we do today.
  3. The loss of children is still a significant issue today, as illustrated by the high number of child deaths from preventable causes like malaria. It's crucial to address and care for these vulnerable lives.

Crimea

Cosmographia • 1078 implied HN points • 09 Aug 23
🏝 Travel Literature
  1. The post is about Crimea and is part of the Atlas' Notes series on Cosmographia, focusing on art, poetry, literature, cartography, and photography centered around a specific place.
  2. The content seems to be for paid subscribers only.
  3. The post includes a link to subscribe to Cosmographia and a prompt to sign in for existing paid subscribers.

A classic, twisty English manor-house mystery; a smooth, stupid, fun European-heist movie; and more

Read Max • 553 implied HN points • 13 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. There's a fun mystery story set in a classic English manor that twists and turns. It's exciting to figure out the secrets inside.
  2. A European jewel-heist movie offers unexpected enjoyment; it’s a mix of action and comedy that keeps you entertained.
  3. Four great music tracks are recommended, showcasing new sounds that might surprise you.