The hottest Literature Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Art & Illustration Topics

End-of-Year Self-Congratulatory Gala

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 424 implied HN points • 28 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  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.

Art and Revolution

KERFUFFLE • 65 implied HN points • 31 May 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Politics can ruin art and journalism by turning them into propaganda instead of genuine expression. When artists and journalists focus too much on their political beliefs, their work loses its depth and creativity.
  2. The lines between art, journalism, and politics are blurring, which can lead to a lack of authenticity in both fields. Artists and journalists often feel pressured to conform to a certain narrative or political agenda.
  3. Art should aim to explore the complexities of human experience, rather than delivering clear-cut moral lessons. Good art reflects the richness of life, while political narratives can oversimplify and distort reality.

The Four British Folkways Still Shaping America

Holodoxa • 99 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. David Hackett Fischer's 'Albion's Seed' explores America's foundational cultural heritage and its impact on society today
  2. The book traces the influence of four British folkways on different regions of America, shaping its politics, economy, and culture
  3. Fischer's work demonstrates how these folkways have endured over centuries, influencing even the ethnic origins of American Presidents

“JEHS”, RIP (2001-2023)

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 656 implied HN points • 03 May 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The author shares a personal story about being mistaken for a football player with the same name.
  2. The experience led the author to adopt and emphasize their middle initials as part of their identity.
  3. Cultural differences in the use of middle initials are highlighted, showing how it can vary across different regions.

Abide With Me

Black Music and Black Muses • 98 implied HN points • 11 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The author explores the concept of the Black Backstage in their upcoming series and exhibition.
  2. The author reflects on growing up in the music industry, surrounded by influential figures like Willie Hutch and Charlie Murphy.
  3. The author contemplates their need to create original music and the impact it has had on their life.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Happy Anniversaries

Sounds Good! • 98 implied HN points • 28 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The author reflects on a year without Facebook and the impact on his writing and personal growth.
  2. Being away from social media has helped the author reconnect with what truly matters to him.
  3. The anniversary of Pink Floyd's 'Dark Side of The Moon' album triggers nostalgic memories for the author.

Cancel Culture Questions, Part 1

Dreams in the Which House • 98 implied HN points • 20 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Cancel culture cases aren't just about celebrities, but also impact many less known individuals
  2. The fear of self-censorship due to cancel culture is not well-supported, especially as it often stems from prominent figures and lacks widespread factual basis
  3. Criticism of cancel culture narratives should involve more thorough fact-checking and not rely solely on anecdotes for evidence

Some news from the Which House

Dreams in the Which House • 98 implied HN points • 26 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Adrian Daub is working on two new projects analyzing the concept of identity politics in different countries.
  2. He will be publishing an essay in _Geschichte der Gegenwart_ diving into the usage of the term 'identity politics' in various media.
  3. Daub will also be reflecting on his experiences as a European living in the US during his upcoming book tour.

Where Have All The Cowgirls Gone?

Sounds Good! • 98 implied HN points • 19 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Good travel writing is about good writing - the genre matters less than the quality of writing.
  2. Some notable travel writers like Bill Bryson and P.J. O'Rourke have made significant contributions to the genre.
  3. There is a lack of representation of female and non-binary voices in the field of travel writing.

Roald Dahl vs The Twits

diabolical • 98 implied HN points • 06 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Puffin Books and the Roald Dahl estate made controversial changes to classic children's novels to increase sales, leading to backlash.
  2. This controversy around editing beloved books has sparked bipartisan outrage and debates on censorship and artistic integrity.
  3. The marketing strategy of creating controversy, selling original versions, then releasing a 'Classic Collection' showcases how profit can be made from consumer choice and outrage.

The Tao of River Trash

The Recovering Academic • 98 implied HN points • 09 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Carol Dweck emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset with the phrase "the power of yet." It's crucial to shift from a fixed mindset to embrace growth, especially in challenging transitions like leaving academia for personal growth.
  2. River trash can offer a new perspective and teach valuable lessons. Collecting litter along the riverbank can spark reflections on individual choices, consumer behavior, and environmental impact.
  3. Engaging in service activities, like cleaning up trash with a group, can foster a sense of community and shared purpose. It goes beyond just physical cleanup, creating connections and learning opportunities.

Do good and disappear

Soaring Twenties • 131 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. It's important to take a break sometimes and reflect on where you're headed. Stopping can help you reset and make better decisions.
  2. Doing good deeds without seeking attention is valuable. You can help others and then quietly move on with your life.
  3. Finding a peaceful, good place to go is worth the search. It's okay if you don't find it right away, as that is part of the journey.

Old ways to do new things

Austin Kleon • 479 implied HN points • 29 Mar 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Looking into the past can spark new ideas for the present. It helps you see creative possibilities that you might not notice otherwise.
  2. Combining old concepts with new works can create unique pieces. It's about mixing the familiar with the fresh to inspire more creativity.
  3. There are many ways to approach creativity, like 'old ways to do new things' and 'new ways to do old things.' Each approach can be valuable depending on what you want to achieve.

Exploit or explore?

Austin Kleon • 619 implied HN points • 12 Nov 21
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. It's important to balance what you already know with discovering new things. Finding the right time to use your skills and explore new ideas is key to growth.
  2. The idea of harmony in tension shows that opposites can coexist and lead to new insights. Embracing conflicting ideas can help us understand life better.
  3. Taking time to appreciate art and creativity is a valuable exercise. It's a good reminder to look at our surroundings and declare things as art in our lives.

Ode to Our Dog Taylor

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 319 implied HN points • 08 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Taylor was a beloved dog who loved adventures, from hiking in the mountains to running in the desert. She brought joy to her family's life through her playful spirit and companionship.
  2. After she passed away, her family honored her by spreading her ashes on a mountain she loved, celebrating her life with tequila and salmon every year since.
  3. The story highlights the deep bond between dogs and their owners, showing how their love endures even after death.

New York's widening gyre

The Common Reader • 673 implied HN points • 04 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. New York is a noisy city with constant sounds like sirens and traffic.
  2. The Guggenheim museum in New York was inspired by nature and the hawk circling above symbolized infinity.
  3. The atmosphere in New York is complex, with contrasts between different aspects of the city like Trump Tower and the homeless man writing in a book.

Good Luck / episode six

Nice Try • 59 implied HN points • 06 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Cults can have a strange way of influencing people. It's important to be aware of how they operate.
  2. Trust your instincts when something feels off. If a situation makes you uncomfortable, it's okay to walk away.
  3. Learning about different cultures and backgrounds can give you a fresh perspective. We can all benefit from understanding each other better.

P Is For Pyle

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Ernie Pyle was an important World War II correspondent who may not be widely known today. His reporting style brought the realities of war to life for many people.
  2. The author emphasizes that writing has value and should be compensated. It's a reminder that while information can be free, the effort of creating it deserves payment.
  3. The post is behind a paywall, but the author notes that it's not hard to access. This highlights the balance between sharing information and recognizing the work that goes into creating it.

Notes On Thankfulness

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 160 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Being grateful for the simple things in life, like family and pets, can really brighten our days. It's important to take a moment to appreciate those who walk beside us, both literally and metaphorically.
  2. Finding joy in nature and small moments can help us feel connected and hopeful. Whether it's watching birds or spending time by the water, these experiences can lift our spirits.
  3. Humor and friendship are valuable, especially during tough times. Even in darkness, sharing laughter and support with friends can make a big difference.

They can’t all be winners

Austin Kleon • 599 implied HN points • 26 Nov 21
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Street art is a cool way to find art in everyday life and it can really brighten up a city. It's all around us if we just take the time to look.
  2. Typewriters are becoming popular again, especially during the pandemic. People find joy in using these old machines for writing.
  3. There are many creative projects and interesting artists to explore, like documentaries and podcasts. They can inspire us and offer new ways to appreciate art and storytelling.

Here's 20 Books On Prepping and Survival + Reviews and Recommendations

OK Doomer • 111 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Preparing for disasters is important because we see more natural chaos and government issues every day. It's smart to think ahead about what we might need.
  2. There are many books on prepping and survival, but not all of them are useful. It's important to find the good ones that actually help you in a survival situation.
  3. Reviewing and organizing these books can make it easier to choose the right ones for future needs. It's a helpful way to gather the best resources for any crisis.

A walkthrough of my diary

Austin Kleon • 539 implied HN points • 18 Jan 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Keeping a diary can help you capture your daily thoughts and creativity. It's a good way to reflect and see how your ideas develop over time.
  2. One person's diaries can take on a unique style, like adding drawings or creative layouts. This can make the process more fun and personal.
  3. Starting a diary might feel tricky at first, but tools like journals or prompts can help get you going. It's all about finding what works for you.

The Sacred Wound

Jyri And • 39 implied HN points • 23 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Sometimes, a fight can feel like a big deal, but it can also show us our limits and what we're truly willing to face. In this story, the fight led to an important lesson about standing up for oneself.
  2. Giving up isn't always a sign of weakness. It can be a way to let things go and move on from a situation that feels too heavy to handle.
  3. Our struggles can lead us to better paths in life. Even when things seem tough, they can guide us to discover who we really are and what we want to do.

Saturday Commentary and Review #148

Fisted by Foucault • 421 implied HN points • 02 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The USA benefits from its geographical location, resources, and Monroe Doctrine in maintaining power in the Americas.
  2. US easing of Venezuela oil sanctions indicates strategic economic concerns and reliance on oil market dynamics.
  3. Tensions between Venezuela and Guyana over oil reserves highlight geopolitical complexities and potential regional conflicts.

Angelica’s Notebook 11/6-11/12

Taipology • 13 implied HN points • 12 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Angelica shares her favorite things she read, wrote, and listened to in a weekly notebook.
  2. She actively engages on Twitter, sharing her thoughts and content with her followers.
  3. Her paid subscribers help support her work and allow her to continue creating content.

Celebrating 100+ readers

polymathematics • 39 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The community just reached over 100 monthly readers, which is a big milestone. It's exciting to see interest and support grow!
  2. To celebrate this achievement, a special discount for membership is offered to the first 100 readers. This makes it a great time to join for extra content.
  3. The writer shows appreciation for all readers, regardless of whether they decide to upgrade their subscriptions. It's all about valuing the support!

Kicking Horse Pass

Cosmographia • 99 implied HN points • 04 Apr 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature
  1. The post is part of the Atlas' Notes series that focuses on art, poetry, literature, cartography, and photography centered on a specific place.
  2. Access to the full content of the post is for paid subscribers only.
  3. The post invites readers to subscribe to read the complete content or to sign in if they are already paid subscribers.

If crisis or war comes

Soaring Twenties • 154 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Sometimes humor can help us cope with serious issues, like crises or wars. It can lighten the mood even when things feel heavy.
  2. Preparing for emergencies can feel overwhelming, but it's important to think ahead and be ready for the unexpected. Staying informed and having a plan can make a difference.
  3. Feeling a sense of obligation can drive us to act, even when we don't want to. We often do things for our loved ones, making the world a better place for them to live in.

Curator

Castalia • 219 implied HN points • 08 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The idea of progress isn't universally accepted. While some people see the future as better, others believe that society can go backward, showing that change isn't always for the better.
  2. Success in art and writing isn't everything. Many artists find fulfillment in the process of creation itself, rather than chasing fame or success.
  3. Philosophers like Lasch and Trilling remind us that focusing too much on progress or collective goals can lessen individual integrity and creativity. They encourage a more personal approach to understanding ourselves and our art.

Inside the mask

Austin Kleon • 599 implied HN points • 29 Oct 21
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Photographs of people wearing masks can be fascinating and revealing. They capture complex emotions and stories behind the masks.
  2. In storytelling, 'The Heroine's Journey' focuses on connecting with others and finding strength through cooperation. This approach is different from the traditional hero's journey and emphasizes community.
  3. Music is often seen as the highest form of art. Schopenhauer believed it expresses deep truths that other art forms can't, making it unique and powerful.

It's Only Pumpkin Pie That's Burning

Outlandish Claims • 19 implied HN points • 10 May 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The average person today has more limbs than ever before, due to advancements in medical care and prosthetics.
  2. Historical parallels can show progress, even when history seems to repeat itself. Improvement can be seen in the present.
  3. It's important to celebrate both past progress and potential for future improvements, balancing gratitude with a focus on areas for growth.

Words and Ideas Can Change the World

Anxiety Addiction & Ascension • 118 implied HN points • 26 Dec 22
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Literature
  1. Words and ideas have the power to change the world - they can spark movements and awaken people to important truths.
  2. Expressing gratitude and sharing knowledge can lead to a collective will for freedom and a better future for society.
  3. Encouraging conversations and shedding light on important issues through words and ideas are crucial steps towards a more enlightened and free world.

Indie writers talking money in La-la Land

The Leftovers • 99 implied HN points • 28 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Many indie writers in the independent scene struggle to sell large numbers of books, leading to questions about the value of their work in a market-driven industry.
  2. There is a blurred line between treating writing as a business and valuing literature beyond its commercial worth, creating a dilemma for independent authors.
  3. The realities of low book sales, dependence on grants, and minimal financial return challenge the perception of writing as a lucrative profession in the indie publishing world.

Good Luck / Suicide in Bed

Nice Try • 39 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The author feels surprised to discover what an apartment really is after living in one for 14 years. This shows how life can hold unexpected lessons even in everyday situations.
  2. The author connects their personal experience with humor and reflection about living in an apartment, adding depth to the story.
  3. The mention of a movie, _The Apartment_, highlights the idea that art can mirror and influence our own lives and perceptions.

Genre Grapevine for October 2023

Genre Grapevine • 78 implied HN points • 31 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Small acts of goodness matter the most in our world, especially for children enjoying special moments like Halloween.
  2. Genre magazines are struggling due to changes like Amazon ending digital subscriptions, impacting revenue and leading to shifts like electronic editions replacing print.
  3. X-Twitter changes by Elon Musk affect how authors share linked articles, making it harder for them to reach readers on the platform.

Curator

Castalia • 139 implied HN points • 04 May 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Roland Griffiths has played a big role in bringing psychedelics back to scientific study, showing they can have real mental health benefits. His research has changed the way people think about psychedelics and their potential uses.
  2. There is a complicated debate about separating an artist's work from their personal character. While some believe that art can exist apart from the artist's morals, many feel uncomfortable consuming art created by people who have done bad things.
  3. The #MeToo movement is important, but it has complicated the way we view allegations and public accusations. Some cases, like that of Junot Díaz, show that not every accusation is entirely accurate, highlighting the need for careful investigation.

Beethoven vs. Baby Shark

Fake Noûs • 377 implied HN points • 09 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Baby Shark has brought more total enjoyment and viewership compared to Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata.
  2. The quality of aesthetic pleasure produced by art can be a factor in determining its value.
  3. The purpose and definition of art play a significant role in determining its artistic value.