The hottest Literature Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Art & Illustration Topics

Winning time

Austin Kleon • 1278 implied HN points • 01 Apr 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Spring is here, and it's a great time for outdoor activities like biking and reading. Enjoying the season can really boost your mood.
  2. Algorithms on social media can harm small businesses and affect how we communicate. It's good to own your own content and not rely too much on platforms.
  3. There are interesting discussions happening around the impact of games and how they influence our experiences. It's worth exploring different viewpoints on this topic.

Sierra Nevada

Cosmographia • 259 implied HN points • 01 Jun 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature
  1. The post is part of a series called Atlas' Notes, focused on art, poetry, literature, cartography, and photography about a specific place, in this case Sierra Nevada.
  2. Access to the full content and map featured in the post seems to be for paid subscribers only.
  3. The post includes images related to Sierra Nevada and provides links to the author and subscription page.

The Pointlessness of Punk

Litverse • 259 implied HN points • 03 May 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Punk rock emerged as a rebellion against mainstream culture and conventional ideas, born in a decaying New York City in the late seventies.
  2. The authenticity of punk as a movement is questioned as its rebellious acts become mainstream and profitable, raising the issue of whether its purpose is lost amidst commercial success.
  3. The essence of punk lies in the performance, where the actions and symbolic gestures carry more weight than the individuals themselves, creating a form of rebellion that transcends traditional definitions.

You're smart

Becoming Noble • 259 implied HN points • 12 May 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  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.

Study something you love in depth!

Austin Kleon • 1418 implied HN points • 01 Feb 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Focus on what you love and study it deeply. Spending time on something you enjoy can reveal new insights and spark creativity.
  2. When exploring an artist's work, you can go in order or pick and choose pieces that interest you. Both approaches can bring value to your understanding.
  3. Share your learning journey with others. It helps you connect with similar fans and encourages you to keep going, all while enjoying the process.
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How I observe Independence Day

The Recovering Academic • 257 implied HN points • 04 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Independence Day is a time for reflection on what America has been and could be, not just a celebration for many.
  2. Texts like Frederick Douglass's speech and Handsome Lake's story make it difficult to observe Independence Day without sorrow, balancing any pride with grief.
  3. There are multiple interpretations of Independence Day, ranging from reclaiming American greatness to critiquing the national experiment, with a middle ground found in Barack Obama's speech 'A More Perfect Union.'

3 Reasons Why You Should Watch Lucky Hank

The Recovering Academic • 257 implied HN points • 20 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The show brings attention to how higher education has shifted towards treating students as customers, focusing on job outcomes over learning.
  2. It highlights the pressure and pathology in the publishing world, showing how success can lead to narcissism and a relentless pursuit of acclaim.
  3. The series sheds light on the power dynamics and control issues within academia, portraying the absurdity and corporate influences in higher education leadership.

Bangers and Mash

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 414 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The authors of The Hinternet are using pseudonyms for professional reasons and to create a unique writing style. Despite this, they promise clearer writing in the future.
  2. The publication plans to produce more popular essays, referred to as 'bangers', to meet economic needs and subscriber interests, even if the topics seem controversial.
  3. Readers are encouraged to engage more deeply by submitting essays on featured works, highlighting the community involvement in shaping the publication.

The Everlasting Man

The Abbey of Misrule • 460 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Literature
  1. Humans are more than just another animal species. We have a unique role on Earth that sets us apart.
  2. Christianity is different from other religions because its founding story is about God becoming human and actively engaging in our world.
  3. The Church is important because it represents a revolution against worldly values, and history shows that Christianity has survived and reborn many times.

Ghosts in the Cloud

Message from the Underworld • 255 implied HN points • 08 Mar 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature
  1. SPOT was a legendary producer for SST label and a key figure in American counterculture.
  2. SPOT was a writer, photographer, and musician before becoming a producer, connecting people and scenes.
  3. The author plans to put together a tribute zine for SPOT to honor his legacy and impact.

Review: "Brandon Sanderson Is Your God" by Wired

coldhealing • 255 implied HN points • 25 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The article criticizes popular fantasy writer Brandon Sanderson for his perceived lack of depth in his works and personal life.
  2. The Wired article attacks Sanderson's character through ad hominem attacks rather than engaging with his literary merit.
  3. There is a comparison with a YouTube video that provides better journalism and artistic exploration than the Wired article.

A Rest Stop In A Long Valley

From The Future • 255 implied HN points • 26 Mar 23
⚔ Fiction Literature
  1. The story is about a girl named Elena who has a unique talent of connecting with people through her memories and experiences.
  2. Elena's encounter with an old woman brings closure and healing for both of them.
  3. The setting of the story is in a futuristic world with mentions of Mars and a vast canyon system called Valles Marineris.

Homework every night for the rest of your life

Austin Kleon • 1139 implied HN points • 13 May 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Being a writer means doing homework every night, but that's not always a bad thing. It keeps you engaged and always learning.
  2. Reading and recommending books isn't just about single titles; it's more about seeing how they connect. Understanding these connections can enhance your reading experience.
  3. Having hobbies, like gardening or walking, can bring joy and creativity to your life. They can also inspire your work in surprising ways.

The Winnipeg Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1508 implied HN points • 30 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Winnipeg is a city that requires curiosity and appreciation for what it is.
  2. Winnipeg has architectural gems, cultural venues, and exceptional cuisine.
  3. Winnipeg's cheap cost of living attracts artists and musicians, making it a unique and vibrant city.

Split Vignettes - The Pre-Romanesque Church of the Holy Trinity

Fisted by Foucault • 114 implied HN points • 30 Jul 25
🏝 Travel Literature
  1. Split, Croatia is a city filled with history that you can see in just a short walk. In just seven minutes, you can pass by ruins from Ancient Greece and Rome, as well as buildings from various other eras like the Renaissance and Baroque.
  2. The Church of the Holy Trinity is a hidden historical gem dating back to between the 8th and 11th centuries. It stands as a rare example of pre-Romanesque architecture that has kept its original design.
  3. Despite its small size, the Church holds Mass every Sunday except in the hottest months. The unique, old-style church is a testament to Split's rich, layered history that many might overlook.

You're Gonna Die Too, Friend

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 99 implied HN points • 06 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature
  1. Book 21 of the Iliad presents chaotic and intense battle scenes that highlight the brevity of human life and the themes of mortality, violence, and heroism.
  2. Achilles' memorable speech to Lykaon reflects his nihilistic acceptance of fate and mortality, showcasing a transition in his grief from mourning to a thirst for vengeance.
  3. The language used in Achilles' speech also delves into the symbolism of the heroic body, emphasizing the inevitability of death even for heroes with perfect physical forms.

A response to The Lost Generation

Theory Matters • 20 implied HN points • 26 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. People want recognition and meaning, not just economic comfort. Many face a painful choice between a safe, mundane life and risky creative struggle, and the struggle itself can be valuable even if success never comes.
  2. We should listen to people’s frustrations instead of dismissing them, because luck, limited opportunities, and social structures often decide who gets scarce jobs. Discounting lived experience—no matter who speaks—stops us from understanding real problems.
  3. Politics and policy that focus only on utility, prestige, or short-term fairness miss the realities of human experience. Society needs more empathy and a vision that respects struggle and the desire for recognition beyond material gains.

Announcements – November 2024

The Upheaval • 455 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. A dialogue with Freya India is now available for free, so you can share it with others who might enjoy it.
  2. Recently, a great gathering in the Catskills brought together interesting people for discussions and good times, and there are opportunities to join similar events in the future.
  3. A book proposal expanding 'The China Convergence' is underway, and the author is looking for potential publishers to bring it to life.

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 451 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. A great commencement speech by Bill Watterson can really touch your heart. It’s about understanding life and making choices, and you might feel emotional listening to it.
  2. Engaging with creative content, like an Instagram reel, can spark joy and inspiration in your day. It’s fun to see what others are sharing online.
  3. Feeling emotional and reflective is totally normal, especially during certain times. A simple piece of content can really resonate with your feelings.

Say yes and never do it

Austin Kleon • 1258 implied HN points • 11 Mar 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Mel Brooks suggests that sometimes it's better to just agree to a boss's idea, even if you don’t plan to actually do it. It can save you from unnecessary conflict.
  2. Reading different perspectives, like a close analysis of poetry or an oral history of music, can refresh your thinking and inspire creativity.
  3. Creating silly or fun projects, like making drawing games with kids, can be a great way to bond and enjoy creativity together.

Can a Jew Still Love Kanye?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 908 implied HN points • 24 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Eli Lake reviews Kanye West's album, acknowledging Kanye's controversial behavior but praising his musical talent.
  2. Kat Rosenfield discusses the idea of using books as props for image and the divide between actual readers and those who pose with books.
  3. Evan Gardner explores Beyoncé's foray into country music, highlighting her diverse musical influences and questioning the genre boundaries in music.

Excruciatingly Boring Dystopia

antoniomelonio • 332 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Many people feel life is painfully boring and routine. It seems like everyone is just going through the motions without any excitement.
  2. Work and social life often feel monotonous and unfulfilling. People long for genuine connections and creativity but get stuck in boring tasks and small talk.
  3. There are hints of change and hope, like workers' movements and the potential of technology to make our lives easier. We need to find small ways to break free from this boredom.

The English writer who colonized young Indian readers

The Global Jigsaw • 138 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Enid Blyton's books were popular in India because they were easily available in English during a time when options were limited.
  2. Reading Blyton's stories allowed Indian children to imagine a different world and travel to distant places without leaving their homes.
  3. Younger generations today may not connect with Blyton's tales due to different experiences, preferences, and access to diverse reading materials.

Sitting on dogs

Splattern • 99 implied HN points • 01 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Dog-sitting can be a fun way to relax and enjoy some time off. Playing with dogs like Scout and Snickers can lift your spirits.
  2. Catching up on stories like 'The Lord of the Rings' can provide insights into political and social themes. It's interesting to see how the challenges faced by characters mirror real-world issues.
  3. Making fresh pasta is easier than it seems, and the result can be delicious! Just flour and eggs can create a tasty meal.

this is not a love poem

Both Are True • 161 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Having fun together can be a nice break from everyday stress, like parenting. Playing games allows couples to connect without heavy discussions.
  2. Good food and the right atmosphere enhance the experience of enjoying games together. Choosing a cozy spot can make even a simple dinner feel special.
  3. Life can be tough, but small moments like shared games and laughter can bring relief. These simple joys help us cope with the challenges we face.

2025 recap

Both Are True • 329 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Time feels like it moves really fast, especially when we're busy. We often miss the little joys around us because we're too focused on our phones.
  2. Even though life is busy, the special moments we share with others exist outside of time. Those moments, filled with love, can feel infinite.
  3. Life has its ups and downs, and we often joke about it, but it's important to find happiness in the little things. We should appreciate the good stuff that makes life meaningful.

#148: Too much music

Maybe Baby • 1552 implied HN points • 21 May 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Using music to create a mood is common in modern culture, from public spaces to social media.
  2. The use of headphones and music may lead to isolating ourselves from shared sounds and communal experiences.
  3. Considering the value of naturally occurring sounds and silence in our lives is important, even amidst our fascination with music.

Writing Is a Bad Habit

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 915 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
📖 Philosophy Literature
  1. The author believes writing is not a lifestyle to be celebrated, but rather a bad habit.
  2. They express frustration with the cultural recursion and excessive focus on writing within platforms like Substack.
  3. The author emphasizes the importance of conveying a unique sensibility through writing rather than focusing on writing rituals and advice.

Destination Tragedy

Litverse • 239 implied HN points • 27 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The COVID-19 pandemic in New York City led to a unique experience for residents, revealing both the beauty and tragedy of the city amidst chaos and loss.
  2. Jeremiah Moss's book 'Feral City' explores the impact of new cultural norms and consumerism on NYC, reflecting on the city's transformation and values over time.
  3. Tragedy can evoke deep emotions and memories, leading to a rediscovery of oneself and the environment, but it can also highlight the differing perspectives and values people hold in society.

Harrison Ford: American Anti-Hero

Litverse • 239 implied HN points • 21 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Harrison Ford embraced his limits and found success by knowing himself well.
  2. Settle for what makes you feel useful in order to find happiness and fulfillment.
  3. Limit yourself to what truly matters to avoid FOMO and focus on your passion and nature.

The map is not the territory

Austin Kleon • 1059 implied HN points • 20 May 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Maps are not the same as reality. They can only represent parts of a complex world we live in.
  2. You don't need to visualize things in your mind to create great art. Many artists, including those with aphantasia, can still draw well without mental images.
  3. The impact of creative works, like books and music, can influence and inspire us. Exploring new recommendations can enrich our lives.

Who Is Reading Even for Anymore?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 881 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Books serve a dual role: for story and as performance props, influencing how we are perceived.
  2. Reading has shifted from a private activity to a public performance, especially influenced by social media and digital culture.
  3. There is a growing divide between readers who quietly enjoy books and public readers who read for an audience, shaping modern book culture.

Do English professors think of themselves as priests?

The Recovering Academic • 237 implied HN points • 29 Aug 23
🚌 Education Literature
  1. English professors are encountering ideological shifts, with a significant decrease in conservative representation in the field.
  2. Debates about the importance of humanities education and literature often arise in the context of changing university priorities.
  3. There's a growing concern about the impact of identity politics and activism on literature education and the declining enrollments in humanities programs.

How many first-generation students were not the first?

The Recovering Academic • 237 implied HN points • 21 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Family history can be complex and full of mysteries, especially when it comes to understanding the generations before us.
  2. Sometimes, the silence in family stories, like what is not told or shared, can hold significant meaning and impact on our own lives and identities.
  3. The choices our ancestors made and the paths they walked can influence our own paths in unexpected ways, shaping our sense of belonging and the journey we take in life.

On Imagination

Castalia • 239 implied HN points • 20 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Imagination can be like a muscle that anyone can develop, regardless of when they start. It's not just for kids; even adults can tap into their creativity with practice.
  2. Many people carry the imaginative play from their childhood well into adulthood, often using it in unexpected ways. This can lead to a richer and more enjoyable life experience.
  3. Imagination is a tool for understanding the world and storytelling, but our culture often undervalues it. We can still push our minds towards creativity, which can help us see things differently.

Too good not to share

Disaffected Newsletter • 399 implied HN points • 28 May 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Helen Dale has a unique ability to explain complex ideas about government and culture in a clear way. She's great for anyone wanting to understand the Westminster system better.
  2. Dale combines her intellect with imagination in her writing, making her novels both insightful and creative. Her work on historical events like the Holodomor showcases her talent.
  3. The essay highlights the emotional and cultural impact of music, particularly through personal memories and experiences, making it relatable and engaging for readers.

Dune Names Are Good, Actually

Counter Craft • 849 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Dune's worldbuilding strikes a balance between the familiar and the strange, making it unique and engaging.
  2. Language in worldbuilding should reflect a balance of otherness and familiarity to enhance themes and characters.
  3. Worldbuilding language should evoke reader imagination while still maintaining readability and evocativeness.

Mt. Snot

Message from the Underworld • 235 implied HN points • 13 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The author shares a past experience of unpleasant memories from boot camp in Chicago.
  2. The author attends the Printer's Row Lit Fest in Chicago and has a positive experience meeting fellow writers.
  3. Despite the past negative memories, the author's recent trip to Chicago for an event is enjoyable and free from past hardships.