The hottest Literature Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Art & Illustration Topics

Dreams of the Collective Unconscious

Skunk Ledger • 133 implied HN points • 12 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Different groups have varying apocalyptic myths, reflecting societal concerns, even if objective data shows improvement.
  2. The world may be getting better in measurable ways but worse in ways that are harder to quantify.
  3. Apologetics involves trusting intuition and exploring underlying structures to understand beliefs and cultural narratives.

Links & What I’ve Been Reading, November

By Reason Alone • 46 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. A lot of interesting media is highlighted, like books, podcasts, and films. There's something for everyone to explore and enjoy.
  2. The author encourages youth, especially those aged 16 to 19, to join programs focused on rational thinking and education. It’s a great chance for learning and growing.
  3. Several recent scientific papers and discussions are mentioned, showing ongoing debates and research that can spark curiosity. Staying informed can lead to deeper understanding of complex topics.

Curator

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 22 Jul 22
📖 Philosophy Literature
  1. Some philosophers are questioning the moral grounds of monogamy, suggesting it could be seen as patriarchal or racist. However, this idea is debated, with many believing monogamy is more complex than that.
  2. There are three controversial ideas in modern philosophy: the denial of free will, the belief in dataism (that data is the best way to understand reality), and the simulation hypothesis (the idea that we might be living in a computer simulation). Each of these ideas downplays individual human experience and agency.
  3. The CIA secretly funded some prominent literary magazines during the Cold War, which raises questions about the independence of writers like Orwell and others. This connection highlights the influence money has on intellectual discussions and challenges the idea of pure, independent thought.

Heaven Is a Truck

Kneeling Bus • 176 implied HN points • 12 May 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Twitter urbanism discourse often reflects a dissatisfaction with the physical environment.
  2. The contemporary city has vast voids that shape our frustration with the built environment.
  3. Rethinking traditional urbanist theories is crucial to understanding our evolving cities.

Rolling Stone etc

The Carousel • 14 implied HN points • 07 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. A writer from Rolling Stone made a fair article about the LA scene, featuring some local artists. It shows that even mainstream media can highlight diverse voices.
  2. There are new videos that celebrate America, including creative projects and AI experiments. These videos add a modern twist to traditional celebrations.
  3. There are links to articles and media discussing reasons to appreciate America, especially around the Fourth of July. It encourages people to reflect on national pride.
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Are Frigg and Freyja the Same Person?

Norse Mythology & Germanic Lore • 19 implied HN points • 05 Dec 23
💾 History Literature
  1. Frigg and Freyja are NOT the same person in Norse mythology, despite some theories suggesting a common origin
  2. Historical sources clearly depict Frigg and Freyja as separate characters, with no indications of them being the same individual
  3. Theories proposing a common origin for Frigg and Freyja are interesting but lack conclusive evidence, reminding us to critically evaluate motivations for such speculations

Is "The Brutalist" a Holocaust Film? An Architecture Film? Is This "Masterpiece" Even Much of a Film?

Gideon's Substack • 35 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The film 'The Brutalist' is criticized for its heavy-handed writing and lack of real character depth. The characters often feel more like symbols than real people.
  2. Despite being praised for its visuals, the film fails to convey a genuine sense of place or energy in its settings. It does not fully explore the historical context it claims to represent.
  3. Many viewers feel the film treats serious subjects like the Holocaust and American identity in a superficial way. This reduces the experiences of the characters to mere symbols rather than meaningful narratives.

CUcommunity vs. the Intruder From Harvard

Default Wisdom • 29 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Rehan's early years were shaped by the vibrant and experimental nature of the early Internet. It was a time full of new challenges and opportunities.
  2. Growing up in a mostly white community as a person of color brought unique experiences and perspectives for Rehan. These experiences influenced his understanding of identity and belonging.
  3. The story highlights the tension between local communities and outside influences, particularly from prestigious institutions like Harvard. This represents the ongoing struggle between tradition and modernity.

A Bit of a Hypocrisy

Tessa Fights Robots • 29 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The author highlights a feeling of hypocrisy in society, where people say one thing but do another. It's important to recognize and address these contradictions in our actions.
  2. Encouraging readers to support their work financially reflects the challenge many creators face in gaining sustainable support. It’s a reminder of how much we value content that resonates with us.
  3. The focus on a specific theme, like saving loved ones, illustrates the deeper emotional connections we have and the moral dilemmas we often grapple with in life. These situations can reveal our true values.

Curator

Castalia • 79 implied HN points • 23 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Greed is not something we are born with; it changes over time due to different cultures and events in history. The 18th century saw a big shift towards capitalism, but it doesn't have to be our only way of living.
  2. Joseph Roth was a significant writer who managed to speak about personal experiences while also addressing the larger political issues of his time. His works are appreciated for being deeply human and emotionally resonant.
  3. The concept of 'choice architecture' suggests that people are subtly manipulated into making 'better' choices without realizing it. This can end up feeling controlling rather than empowering, questioning how much real freedom we have in our choices.

Curation vs. Consumption

Kyle Chayka Industries • 183 implied HN points • 05 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Curation is replacing creation as a mode of self-expression.
  2. In a world of constant curation, it's important to truly appreciate and dive into what we consume.
  3. Too much focus on projecting an image of the self through curation may lead to narcissism.

Baldwin vs Buckley

Holodoxa • 59 implied HN points • 15 Nov 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The 1965 Cambridge Union debate between James Baldwin and William F. Buckley is considered significant in the discourse about race in America, despite some limitations in its impact on racial politics at that time.
  2. Nicholas Buccola's book, 'The Fire Is Upon Us,' provides a detailed analysis of the Baldwin vs Buckley debate, focusing on their biographical sketches, written works, and positions on race and politics.
  3. Baldwin's and Buckley's ideas on race, politics, and society from the mid-20th century still resonate in contemporary discussions, though there are critiques about their approaches and implications for modern racial discourse.

Becoming the Tuna King

SatPost by Trung Phan • 148 implied HN points • 24 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. To excel in any profession, there are specific table stakes and dedication required
  2. Success often involves extreme dedication, unique skills, and consistent effort over time
  3. Understanding the table stakes of a profession is crucial before committing to it

Type of Guy studies; MAGA misfit toys; Adorno on the Mangiones; An old-time boss's farewell to politics

Unpopular Front • 35 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The author is excited about their book receiving recognition, appearing on several year-end best lists, which they didn't expect.
  2. They discuss the relevance of the film 'Taxi Driver' and encourage listeners to check out a screening of 'Ronin', highlighting its quality as a thriller.
  3. For those interested in art, fashion, and culture, the author recommends checking out a Substack called 'Selling Out' by Natasha Stagg.

The Lady in the Louvre

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 13 implied HN points • 29 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Seeing the Mona Lisa in person is a completely different experience than just looking at pictures. She is more beautiful and graceful than I expected.
  2. Many people take photos of the Mona Lisa instead of just enjoying her presence. It seems they don’t know how to connect with the art without a camera.
  3. Her smile seems to suggest that she cannot be owned or completely understood by anyone. It's like she's saying her beauty and story are hers alone.

My Expectations for 2025 in One Meme

Tessa Fights Robots • 33 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. You are unique and important. Your individual voice and presence matter in the world.
  2. No matter the chaos around you, stay grounded and true to yourself. Focus on your inner strength and love.
  3. Even if life gets overwhelming, remember you have the power to navigate through it and make a difference.

Bane War Vol. 1 Fury

Bridget’s Newsletter Booked With Bridget • 40 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
⚔ Fiction Literature
  1. The story follows Saffa, a young woman whose life changes dramatically when she discovers her magical powers. She has to face challenges while trying to reconnect with her love, Soren.
  2. The plot includes romance elements like love triangles and opposites attracting, making it emotionally rich. Saffa’s relationships add drama and interest to the story.
  3. The writing is engaging, with a mix of action and thoughtfulness. It paints a colorful picture of the setting and balances serious themes with humor.

Commentary on Orage's "HOW NOT TO BE BORED"

Journal of Gurdjieff Studies • 19 implied HN points • 18 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The post discusses a commentary on Orage's 'HOW NOT TO BE BORED', emphasizing methods to avoid feeling bored.
  2. The content includes a link to the full story, directed to paid subscribers, highlighting exclusivity for those who wish to access more information.
  3. The post indicates that the information is tailored for paid subscribers, encouraging readers to subscribe to gain full access.

the joy of browsing

visa's voltaic verses ⚡️ • 14 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Browsing bookstores can lead to unexpected discoveries and joy. It's exciting to find interesting books that you weren't specifically looking for.
  2. Book browsing is not just about buying books; it's also a social activity. Sharing this experience with friends can help deepen connections.
  3. Understanding the variety of genres and reader preferences in bookstores highlights the diverse interests people have. Everyone has their unique tastes when it comes to reading.

War Crimes

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 19 implied HN points • 15 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The epic of the Iliad explores the limits of violence, with scenes like advocating for infanticide and portraying extreme brutality during war.
  2. The depiction of violence in ancient Greek art, like the Mykonos Vase, reflects the harsh realities of warfare and societal practices of that time.
  3. The breakdown of social conventions in the Iliad leads to brutal, dehumanizing violence, showcasing how individual actions can disrupt norms and unleash chaos.

The World is a Morality Play

From the New World • 26 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The anime Madoka Magica shows how personal desires can lead to tragic outcomes. If characters aren't careful about what they wish for, they can end up worse off.
  2. Kyubey, the magical cat, uses the emotions and struggles of magical girls as energy to keep the universe alive. This creates a cycle of suffering that drives the story.
  3. Homura is a character who learns to understand her true desires, challenging the idea of sacrificing for others. She ultimately transcends typical morality by getting the power she wants and fighting against the system.

VFYW: Legends Abound

The Weekly Dish • 26 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The VFYW contest features a variety of fun and creative themes, showcasing unique views from windows around the world. It's a great way to spark creativity and engage with a community of puzzle lovers.
  2. Participants share stories and memories tied to their window views, turning the contest into a shared experience. This personal touch adds depth to the entries and makes the contest more enjoyable.
  3. The guessing process for the locations can be challenging but also intriguing. Many people enjoy the detective work involved in figuring out the right answer by analyzing clues from the photos.

Delusions of Grandeur

Soaring Twenties • 38 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
⚔ Fiction Literature
  1. The story shows how people can have grand dreams and ideas about themselves. The character believes he is destined for greatness from a young age.
  2. There is a humorous interaction between two characters in a remote cabin. One is a quirky older man who has all sorts of wild ideas and delusions about his importance.
  3. The conversation touches on deeper themes of identity, reality, and the search for meaning, as the younger character learns about the older man's life and dreams.

The AI Pork Prism

Reactionary Feminist • 15 implied HN points • 24 May 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. There is a real difference between things that have an inherent form and those that are artificially made. This difference can impact how we perceive the value of things.
  2. The term 'slop' describes things that seem formless or lacking structure, which can apply to everything from food to internet content. This reflects a deeper concern about what is natural versus what is unnatural.
  3. The ongoing debate about nature and culture often misses the point of whether things really have an intrinsic nature at all. This discussion has significant implications for how we view technology and our world.

American Upanishad

Covidian Æsthetics • 28 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. David Lynch's work is seen as a deep reflection on life and existence, similar to ancient philosophical texts. His storytelling encourages us to look beyond the surface and embrace ambiguity.
  2. The themes of good and evil in Lynch's projects suggest that they are intertwined and originate from the same reality. Understanding their relationship can change how we perceive our own experiences.
  3. The character dynamics, especially in 'Twin Peaks,' reveal complex emotional and metaphysical struggles, showing how personal trauma can affect broader narratives of family and destiny.

Box #2

What Is Called Thinking? • 34 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Jordan Peterson argues against subjectivism, discussing deep questions about God and meaning. He believes that simply seeing God as an idol can limit our understanding.
  2. The debate about the existence of mythological creatures, like dragons, raises important questions about our rationality. It suggests that how we view myths reflects our understanding of reality.
  3. Finding and sharing timeless, freeing ideas is essential for a good life. We should strive to help others discover what is truly lasting and liberating.

Grab bag.

The Uncertainty Mindset (soon to become tbd) • 59 implied HN points • 13 Dec 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. It's important to develop skills to handle uncertainty because the world is becoming more unpredictable. A tool called 'idk' can help with this.
  2. There's a difference between risk and uncertainty that people often mix up. Understanding this can help us make better decisions in uncertain situations.
  3. Innovation and effective goal-setting require clear thinking about trade-offs. By acknowledging trade-offs, teams can be more adaptable and strategic.

The Comet King From Unsong Is Kanye West

Skunk Ledger • 143 implied HN points • 24 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The concept of the Comet King from Unsong being compared to Kanye West is explored, drawing parallels between their stories and personas.
  2. Kanye West's album 'My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy' is analyzed in relation to the Comet King's journey in Unsong, showing similarities in themes and character arcs.
  3. Symbolism and deeper meanings are uncovered in the comparison, revealing kabbalistic connections and the merging of good and evil through the characters of Unsong and Kanye West.

Total Editor Death

The Carousel • 32 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The role of editors is really important for great writing; many famous writers had editors who helped shape their work. Without skilled editors, quality in mainstream writing seems to be declining.
  2. Today's editors often don't believe in finding true talent and instead focus on what's already popular. This can limit the discovery of new, unique voices.
  3. Creative industries seem stuck in a loop, choosing familiar successes over new ideas because of decision fatigue. There's hope that this might change as more people explore DIY platforms for fresh talent.

Tripwire Minds, Clockwork Days

Breaking Smart • 10 implied HN points • 10 Jul 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature
  1. There isn't a one-size-fits-all health routine for being creative. Some great creators thrived despite poor health, while others were fit and still achieved less.
  2. Having a regular schedule can help get more work done, but real breakthroughs often come from changing things up or dealing with strong emotions.
  3. Creativity seems to need both structure and some chaos. A mix of steady habits and moments of intensity is often the best way to spark new ideas.

The Two Bets

The Future, Now and Then • 113 implied HN points • 09 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Two bets from the past illustrate contrasting viewpoints on the trajectory of society.
  2. The outcome of these bets reveals the complexities of predicting future trends.
  3. The tension between techno-optimism and environmental concerns continues to shape societal narratives.

🎛️ Kernel 5 Pitches Now Open!

Reboot • 26 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Kernel Magazine is looking for creative and nonfiction pitches for Issue 5. You can share your ideas by February 1.
  2. The theme for this issue is about 'rules'—how they shape our lives and can both help and restrict us.
  3. They're interested in unique formats and styles, like experiments in form or creative interpretations of modern issues.

VFYW: Gay Icons And Graffiti Galore

The Weekly Dish • 29 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Graffiti and street art can be fascinating and lead to surprising discoveries about a place. Sometimes, a simple tag can help identify a city's location.
  2. Family history can reveal interesting stories and connections to places, making history feel more personal and engaging. Learning about our ancestors can create a sense of belonging.
  3. Architecture plays a key role in how we perceive a city. Unique buildings can evoke curiosity and spark discussions about design, history, and the blend of old and new.

Stealth Editing a Culture

American Dreaming • 138 implied HN points • 09 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Literature is being sensitivity edited to conform to political correctness, even posthumously, which is seen as cultural whitewashing.
  2. Sensitivity editing of literary works without author consent or after their death is considered morally wrong and limits cultural history.
  3. Normalizing sensitivity editing in literature sets a troubling precedent for other mediums like film and music, potentially rewriting past art to suit current sensitivities.

Five Links for February 2025

Five Links (and three graphs) by Auren Hoffman • 24 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Group decisions can be affected by the type of games leaders create in their organizations. It’s vital for leaders to understand these dynamics.
  2. Investment banking has seen a decline in prestige compared to lawyers, who are rising mostly due to advancements like AI. Career paths in finance are shifting.
  3. The search for modern geniuses is challenging. Many believe they are just hidden away, and learning to find them can lead to greater insights.

Seven Hills of Seattle

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 59 implied HN points • 06 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Seattle is famously said to be built on seven hills, but there’s some debate about which hills should be counted. Some people agree with the original list of hills, while others suggest different ones.
  2. The hills of Seattle have been both a source of pride and challenges for the city. They created scenic views but also made travel and construction difficult.
  3. Over time, the idea of Seattle's 'seven hills' has changed. Today, the commonly accepted hills reflect a mix of history and geography, with names that have transitioned through the years.

Art Doesn't Lie About Chthonic Human Nature

Holodoxa • 59 implied HN points • 19 Aug 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature
  1. Art reflects the dark truths of human nature, as argued by Camille Paglia in her work Sexual Personae
  2. Paglia's thesis explores the conflict between reason and chaos in Western culture through art
  3. Paglia's provocative approach challenges traditional literary criticism and encourages a more engaging exploration of art and literature

ohayo..

SJF • 19 implied HN points • 12 May 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The publication will be a way for the author to follow their curiosity and share ideas.
  2. The author, Simon James French, is a sound artist composing music.
  3. The content of the publication will include ideas, quotes, music, and more that inspire the author.

Stories of Sand, Cities of Salt

Critic at Large • 19 implied HN points • 26 Jul 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature
  1. Artists like Kiluanji Kia Henda explore the notion of cities emerging in unlikely environments, such as deserts, and how these structures can impact society and culture.
  2. The concept of 'Dubaization' refers to the influence of extravagant city development projects, like those in Dubai, on architecture and urban planning in other regions, prompting discussions on the authenticity and value of such endeavors.
  3. The novel 'Cities of Salt' by Abdulrahman Munif delves into the consequences of rapid urbanization driven by oil exploitation, highlighting the societal tensions and transformations that accompany the development of 'cities of salt.'