The hottest Literature Substack posts right now

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My year in review

Kyle Chayka Industries • 143 implied HN points • 30 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The newsletter covers Kyle Chayka's favorite pieces and updates for the year, including a list of tour dates for his new book.
  2. Kyle Chayka started a new newsletter project called One Thing, focusing on curation of authentic content in digital spaces.
  3. Kyle Chayka reflects on his New Yorker columns, discussing topics like AI in art, AI-generated imagery, and the impact of social media on news consumption.

Walk This Way

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 99 implied HN points • 20 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Animals move in different ways, like marmots and chipmunks scurrying quickly, while bears just stroll. Observing these movements can make us appreciate the natural world.
  2. Walking slowly and enjoying our surroundings, like with the Italian concept of struscio, helps us take in details and connect with our environment and others.
  3. Exploring a city by strolling can reveal hidden details and experiences. It's a great way to learn about new places or rediscover familiar ones.

KERNEL IS COMING

Reboot • 18 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Kernel Magazine is releasing its fifth issue, focusing on the theme of rules and how they shape our lives. It will include various creative works like essays, stories, and illustrations.
  2. There will be a launch party for the new issue on July 17 in San Francisco, featuring readings and discussions. Tickets are available for $10.
  3. The magazine's cover has been revealed, showcasing the work of a talented illustrator, and the editorial team is excited to share the issue with everyone.

Chronicle of a childless cat lady

Unreported Truths • 57 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Emily Witt shares her life experiences in her memoir, focusing on her struggles with drug use and her relationships, particularly with a man named Andrew. She aims to present a self-aware view but misses some key insights about her own behavior.
  2. Witt's desire to be perceived as 'cool' drives her lifestyle choices, including her preferences for parties and partners. This desire reflects a specific elite culture that seems disconnected from the reality of most people's lives.
  3. While Witt portrays herself as a fighter for social justice, she often fails to acknowledge the perspectives of those closest to her, such as Andrew. Her narrative emphasizes her own experiences while sidelining others, raising questions about authenticity and empathy.

Gravity

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 08 Aug 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. People often find refuge in music during tough times. It can lead to discovering new artists and help navigate feelings of loneliness.
  2. Relationships can be complicated, especially after a breakup. New connections may form, but the past can still weigh heavily on your mind.
  3. Creativity can arise from everyday experiences and challenges. Venturing into art or writing can be a way to express emotions and connect with others.
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HOISTED FROM THE ARCHIVES: Origins of Fascism in the Modern Pace of Econo-Social Creative Destruction

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 123 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🚌 Education Literature
  1. In the past, social networks largely determined who you were, but in modern times, you have the power to choose your own social network and reinvent yourself.
  2. With the rise of modern economic growth after 1870, the pace of change accelerated, leading to the disappearance of many traditional social roles and the need for individuals to adapt and choose new paths.
  3. Loneliness and totalitarianism can arise from the disconnection and lack of common experience in modern societies, with anger and desperation fueling negative solidarity, leading to negative consequences.

January Vignettes

lettersonbeing • 19 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Florida's cold weather can be unpredictable with quick temperature changes.
  2. Small moments like listening to the wind and sharpening knives can bring peace.
  3. Live sports events can create a sense of unity and escape from daily worries.

for those who come after us

The Lifeboat • 126 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Imagine how future generations will learn about us from our writings.
  2. Everything we write today could be a record of our civilization for those who come after us.
  3. Our descendants may find our stories, essays, and tweets fascinating and be grateful for the insight into who we were.

VFYW: A Game Of Horse

The Weekly Dish • 14 implied HN points • 02 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The contest involves solving clues to identify a tourist spot that has a mix of beauty and a troubling history. It's like a fun puzzle for everyone to figure out together.
  2. There are personal stories and recommendations shared by participants, adding a sense of community and encouragement among readers. This makes the experience more interactive and engaging.
  3. The discussions often highlight interesting facts about places and cultures, enriching the understanding of locations beyond just their tourist appeal. It's a learning journey wrapped in a game.

Curator

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 11 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Andrea Dworkin's views on sexuality are becoming more relevant today. She believed that sex could have power dynamics that undermine women's autonomy, sparking renewed interest during movements like MeToo.
  2. Isaac Bashevis Singer valued individual storytelling over collective ideals. He thought that focusing on personal narratives, even if they were uncomfortable or boring, was more truthful and valuable than trying to fit into a socially acceptable mold.
  3. The Guggenheim's recent turmoil reflects the challenges of addressing past injustices. The incident highlights that trying to balance modern expectations with historical context can be tricky, often resulting in conflict rather than resolution.

I'm Going Paid

Strange Wonder • 19 implied HN points • 10 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The author is transitioning their publication to a paid subscription model.
  2. They plan to offer one free post a month and three paid posts.
  3. The shift is to support their career change and family, while also providing more in-depth content.

Nothing ever happens / everything happens all the time

The Leftovers • 59 implied HN points • 17 Oct 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature
  1. Sometimes unexpected encounters and coincidences can lead to introspection and a desire for change in life.
  2. The exploration of doppelgängers, mundane events, and abrupt endings in storytelling can spark contemplation on the nature of existence and personal identity.
  3. Sharing experiences and moments of synchronicity with others can create a sense of connection and shared purpose, transcending individual narratives.

Repairing Ourselves.

The Future Does Not Fit In The Containers Of The Past • 53 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Poetry helps us connect with our deepest feelings and can aid in personal healing. It shows us that we can rebuild ourselves through words and creativity.
  2. Water symbolizes life and healing, teaching us the importance of being adaptable and working harmoniously with our environment.
  3. Kintsugi is a Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, reminding us that our scars and flaws can be beautiful and part of our unique story.

Manifesto(es)

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 26 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Art raises tough questions about ethics. Some people think art should avoid causing harm, while others believe artists should have total freedom.
  2. The debate about morality in art often leads to controversies, like whether it's okay to write about real people without their consent, which can hurt them.
  3. Choosing to ignore ethical questions can make art feel cheap. Artists need to balance creativity with the potential impact their work may have on others.

This Blog Will Last a Lifetime

polymathematics • 39 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Having a lifelong project, like a blog, can be very valuable. It gives you something to work on consistently throughout your life.
  2. Projects that last a long time can be more fulfilling than short-term ones. They allow you to grow and evolve along with your interests.
  3. Writing regularly helps you reflect and share your thoughts, which can be beneficial for personal growth and connection with others.

What I've been reading

Kvetch • 48 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Human evolution is influenced by various genetic factors, and recent research shows that specific traits, like blue eyes and dry earwax, evolved due to strong selection methods in different populations.
  2. The book _Common Ground_ explores the lives of three Boston families and illustrates the complexities of race and class in America, especially during school desegregation efforts in the 1970s.
  3. In _Churchill, Hitler, and the Unnecessary War_, the author argues that Britain played a key role in causing World War I and II by making choices that escalated conflicts, raising questions about the impact of those decisions on history.

Curator

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 04 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Modern science, especially biology, is challenging old ideas about evolution and focusing on more complex factors like mutations and environmental changes. Many scientists believe it's time to rethink our understanding beyond just natural selection.
  2. The story of modern art isn't just about creative geniuses overcoming the establishment; it's also about how money and powerful patrons influence what art gets recognized. Support from wealthy collectors played a huge role in modern art's acceptance.
  3. Contemporary fiction seems stuck in old debates and doesn't explore new angles, like global perspectives or the realities of modern life. There’s a call for fiction to be more imaginative and engaged with present-day issues rather than just following trends.

Theft

Story Club with George Saunders • 49 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. A good work of art captures something deep and meaningful. It's about more than just the surface level; it resonates with our emotions and thoughts.
  2. Engaging with art is a collaborative experience. The audience plays a vital role in interpreting and connecting with the work.
  3. Effective storytelling includes exploring difficult themes. A story can tackle complex issues while still being relatable and thought-provoking.

Codex Seraphinianus, the Proto-Blog

Orbis Tertius • 158 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Borges curated an anthology called _A Personal Library_ but could only complete 74 out of 100 books, making it his final work.
  2. Borges also edited _The Library of Babel_, a collection of fantastical stories, but getting physical copies might be challenging due to scarcity and translations.
  3. Luigi Serafini's _Codex Seraphinianus_ is a fictional encyclopedia with strange illustrations, and he considered it a 'proto-blog' for reaching out to people outside the art gallery circle.

Curator

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 10 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Prohibition changed the view of personal freedom and government control. It showed how some people believe in limiting choices for a better life, while others want no restrictions at all.
  2. Universal education has its roots in Horace Mann's vision. However, its old model may not fit today's needs, so there should be changes to help students discover their own paths and skills.
  3. Heriberto Yépez values literature as a means of self-transformation and courage. His work challenges norms and encourages writers to embrace their potential for change.

I am a compost heap

Austin Kleon • 199 implied HN points • 15 Oct 21
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Idea composting is about mixing and combining thoughts to create new ideas.
  2. Exploring creative content, like podcasts and books, can inspire and refresh your perspective.
  3. Writing about topics like artificial intelligence can spark unexpected interests and insights.

Little Treats

Autoscriptorium • 39 implied HN points • 06 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Enjoy little treats along your journey of self-improvement, they are important.
  2. Find joy in small things like Algonquin School paintings and quality fruits from California.
  3. Discover unique items like Emilio Braga notebooks and engaging books for a well-rounded experience.

History Unknown: The CIA Bought (and Changed) George Orwell's "Animal Farm"

JoeWrote • 46 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
💾 History Literature
  1. The CIA has been involved in many controversial and extreme actions, such as planning false flag attacks, making it hard to speak about American foreign policy without sounding extreme.
  2. George Orwell, under his real name Eric Arthur Blair, had a complicated political history, shaped in part by his experiences during the Spanish Civil War.
  3. Orwell's book 'Animal Farm' is not just about communism but a critique of the Soviet Union's style of governance, as he wanted to highlight its flaws rather than dismiss socialism altogether.

On 'The Narcissist Society'

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 01 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Christopher Lasch argued that the culture of the 1970s led to a rise in narcissism, showing a shift from community-focused attitudes to a self-centered mindset. People started focusing more on their individual needs and feelings rather than collective well-being.
  2. Lasch believed that therapy had taken the place of religion and created a culture where personal issues and self-obsession were prioritized over societal problems. He viewed this as a dangerous trend that ultimately produced a sense of nihilism in society.
  3. The antidote to societal narcissism can be found in healthy self-love that embraces the past and values personal growth. Rather than adhering to modern trends, people can find inner freedom by understanding their history and cultivating meaningful connections.

Diary

Autoscriptorium • 39 implied HN points • 04 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Work can sometimes feel disposable, with a focus on being memorable but ultimately forgettable.
  2. The writer reflects on experiences at a place like an emergency room that runs continuously.
  3. The act of writing a diary is explored, creating a connection with an unknown reader.

Sketching the bars of our cage

Kvetch • 113 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Breaking Bad explores breaking free from marriage
  2. Marriage is portrayed positively in Breaking Bad, showing stability and support
  3. The idea of freedom is often an illusion, with marriage essential for men

Margaret and Carrie White Go To A Restaurant

Disaffected Newsletter • 119 implied HN points • 19 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The restaurant scene highlights the clash between Margaret's strict beliefs and Carrie's desire for a normal experience. Margaret's reactions show her discomfort with anything that she sees as sinful.
  2. The interactions with the waitress illustrate the awkwardness of the situation. Margaret's intense comments make the waitress confused and uncomfortable.
  3. Carrie's frustration with her mother's extreme views is clear when she just wants dessert. This shows how challenging their relationship is and how different their perspectives are.

The Very International Internationale (Ch. 18)

Ink-uilab • 19 implied HN points • 25 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The Internationale anthem has a rich history, resonating globally and transcending political movements.
  2. The song has been translated into over 150 languages, showcasing its universal appeal and inclusivity.
  3. The Internationale has also been used as a national anthem, symbolizing sovereign identity and community spirit.

Literature Reviews and Innovation

New Things Under the Sun • 144 implied HN points • 02 Oct 23
🔬 Science Literature
  1. Literature reviews tend to be more highly cited than traditional research articles in academia and policy.
  2. Literature reviews help consolidate isolated niches of research into more central ideas in academia.
  3. Academic literature reviews can influence policy-making by providing a broader and more accurate picture of scientific findings.

Our Lying Problem

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 175 implied HN points • 29 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Even the most honest individuals tell up to two lies per day, but the truth has a way of surfacing despite efforts to suppress it.
  2. George Orwell's commitment to telling the truth serves as a valuable example to combat public lies, drawing insights from his work on truth and authenticity.
  3. Putting an end to public lying involves not rewarding it and fostering independent thinking to resist manipulation and misinformation.

Recommendations II

Nice Try • 99 implied HN points • 13 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Resequencing albums can change how you experience them. For example, swapping tracks on 'Let It Bleed' can create a better flow and make it feel more like a complete piece of art.
  2. Taking your time with long books is important. It's not about how fast you read but how much you engage with the material. Marking notes can help deepen your understanding.
  3. Not all movies about famous artists hit the mark. Some, like the Van Gogh biopic, might not do justice to their subjects, even if they have good performances or interesting ideas.

What machines don't know

The Ruffian • 208 implied HN points • 11 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The rise of AI has made humanities more important than ever
  2. High-status individuals today are often in fields like software development and data science
  3. Iris Murdoch's argument about the importance of literature over science is relevant with the advancement of AI

VFYW: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Window

The Weekly Dish • 17 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The search in this week's contest is tough, with many sleuths guessing various cities but landing on China numerous times. It's been a challenging spot to pinpoint!
  2. Participants shared their insights and personal stories about past travels, which adds a fun connection to their guesses. Everyone seems to have a story to tell.
  3. The raccoon dog was mentioned, highlighting how many interesting animals inhabit urban areas in China, which adds a unique twist to the whole search.

The Anointed

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 36 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Having someone recognize your talent can feel important, but real success often comes from hard work and persistence. It’s not just about getting that big break; it’s about consistently putting in the effort.
  2. The media landscape is constantly changing, and many traditional outlets are struggling to survive. It's tough for writers today to find their place in an environment where less funding and fewer opportunities exist.
  3. Today, being 'anointed' or becoming famous in the cultural scene is not as common as it once was. Many traditional routes to success have shifted, and while there are famous figures, the pool of new stars has narrowed significantly.

VFYW: Everyone's A Winner

The Weekly Dish • 18 implied HN points • 31 May 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. In the latest contest, nobody won a prize, which is unusual. It shows that sometimes the competition can be really tough.
  2. Participants shared their experiences with travels and skiing, highlighting fun family times. It's great to see how hobbies bring people closer together.
  3. Many entries included clever guesses about the photo's location, showcasing the engaging nature of the contest. It's cool how people can connect over their insights and knowledge.

Humanities in Revolt

Humanities in Revolt • 119 implied HN points • 28 Jan 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The humanities are essential during times of crisis, providing vital resources and insights to navigate challenges and understand the human condition.
  2. Humanities in Revolt seeks to bring the study of philosophy, literature, arts, and history out of academia and into everyday life to explore human values and existence.
  3. The newsletter focuses on the ethical primacy of humanity over material possessions, promoting creativity, courage, and the activation of our fullest human potential.

Why No Cassandra of Hope?

What Is Called Thinking? • 42 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Literature
  1. Cassandra represents the idea of being ignored while predicting disaster, like prophets in the Bible who warn others but are often mocked or disregarded.
  2. In literature, we see more examples of ignored warnings than of hopeful messages. It seems people find it easier to mock the messengers of doom than to accept hopeful visions.
  3. People who share positive messages often focus on small, gradual changes instead of significant, sudden improvements, which makes their voices less impactful in comparison to doom-laden warnings.

What Wicked Taught Me About B2B Sales

Investing 101 • 41 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Storytelling can be really fun when we ask 'What if?' and explore different perspectives. This can give new life to old stories.
  2. Revisionist history helps us uncover deeper meanings in characters and events. It allows us to see things from different angles and appreciate complexity.
  3. Understanding different perspectives is key in business storytelling. It helps connect with your audience and shape how they see your brand or idea.