The hottest Literature Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Artists must be allowed to do bad work

Austin Kleon • 4636 implied HN points • 12 May 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Artists need the freedom to create bad work. It’s part of the process and helps them grow.
  2. Creative exploration sometimes involves messy experiments and repeating ideas without clear purpose. This can eventually lead to better discoveries.
  3. Reading about philosophy can inspire creativity. Classic thinkers can offer insights that enhance artistic expression.

The Futility of Trigger Warnings

Persuasion • 2830 implied HN points • 17 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Some universities are implementing trigger warnings on classic literature which may not actually be helpful for students' mental health.
  2. Research shows that trigger warnings do not alleviate emotional distress and may even increase anxiety in individuals with PTSD.
  3. There is concern that the trend of trigger warnings on literature may degrade the transformative power of art and hinder students' growth.

Utopia Vs Human Nature

Classical Wisdom • 1533 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Aristophanes explores the concept of utopia and its relationship with human nature
  2. Utopias can be nostalgic, fictional, or aimed at reconstructing the world
  3. Through his comedies, Aristophanes provides criticisms and insights on the societal issues of his time

Talking about taste

The Common Reader • 1134 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Good taste can be a tricky subject, and it's debated if anyone can really develop it or if it's just a way for some people to feel superior.
  2. The conversation touched on how some classics in literature didn't do well when they were first released.
  3. There was also a discussion about how even AI might develop its own sense of taste in the future.
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Not by Bread Alone

Glenn Loury • 1983 implied HN points • 07 Jan 24
🚌 Education Literature
  1. Social capital is crucial in understanding persistent racial inequality.
  2. Our social reality significantly influences economic and social prospects.
  3. In addressing racial disparities, we need a broader sense of common identity and inclusion.

Literary culture can't just dismiss AI.

The Common Reader • 3402 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. AI is changing how we think about literature and culture. It's important to embrace this change rather than ignore it.
  2. Modern literature needs to engage with new technologies to stay relevant. Just like past innovations, AI can be a tool for creativity instead of a replacement.
  3. Writers should adapt to the evolving cultural landscape. Accepting AI as part of the literary world can help create a richer and more diverse artistic expression.

A Cozy Winter Storm of Recs & Links

Culture Study • 3411 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Winter can bring beautiful but cold weather, which many might find refreshing compared to the usual grey skies. It can feel like a gift to experience clear days and chilly air.
  2. There's a cozy mix of recommendations in the post, including recipes, books, and fun insights into pop culture. These can offer enjoyment and distraction during tough times.
  3. It's important to check your email settings for newsletters, as sometimes they may not reach your inbox. This way, you won’t miss out on content you want to read.

The Khyber Pass

Cosmographia • 1976 implied HN points • 09 Dec 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature
  1. The post discusses 'The Khyber Pass' and is part of the 'Atlas' Notes' series.
  2. The content includes an artwork, poem, literature excerpt, antique map, and photography related to a specific location.
  3. Access to the full post is available for paid subscribers only.

A bank holiday bonanza of things to read, watch & listen to this weekend

The Shift With Sam Baker • 878 implied HN points • 28 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The post shares a bank holiday bonanza of things to read, watch, and listen to, providing a variety of recommendations for entertainment and information consumption.
  2. It features insights on effort, productivity, and decision-making, emphasizing the importance of giving it your all but also learning to tolerate unknowns and knowing when to give up on certain endeavors.
  3. Recommendations include books read, shows watched, and podcasts listened to, offering a diverse range of content suggestions for different tastes and interests.

On hype, and the unbearable banality of ChatGPT’s poetry

Marcus on AI • 4466 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Literature
  1. A recent study claims that ChatGPT's poetry is similar to Shakespeare's, but it's important to be skeptical of such bold claims. Many experts believe the poetry is just a poor imitation, lacking genuine creativity.
  2. The critique of the AI poetry highlights that it often reads like the work of an unskilled poet who doesn't truly understand the style they're trying to emulate. This raises questions about the quality of AI-generated content.
  3. It's essential to approach AI-generated work with caution and to not get swayed by hype, as popular claims may not always reflect the true abilities of the technology.

An Apology To Charles Foster

Daily Dreher • 1474 implied HN points • 20 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The author apologized to Charles Foster for misreading his piece on psychedelia.
  2. The author quoted a comment from Charles Foster's article on psychedelics.
  3. The author highlighted the importance of not inhibiting research on psychedelics.

Sparta and… Scotland?

Classical Wisdom • 2653 implied HN points • 05 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Spartans and Scots share hidden wit and sarcasm in their cultures
  2. Both cultures are known for their laconic wit, expressing ideas concisely
  3. Humour can be found in unexpected places, like in historical exchanges and responses

The Monday Media Diet with Jasmine Sun

Why is this interesting? • 4222 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. A varied media diet is important. It's good to consume information from different sources instead of just what algorithms choose for you.
  2. Books can offer deep insights. Reading across genres, like fiction and nonfiction, can help understand complex societal issues better.
  3. Curiosity about subcultures can spark creativity. Exploring unique groups and ideas can inspire new perspectives and work.

The Monday Media Diet with Caroline McKay

Why is this interesting? • 1206 implied HN points • 21 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. It's important to listen to your instincts, especially when it comes to personal safety. The book 'The Gift of Fear' teaches how being aware of subtle cues can help you avoid danger.
  2. Travel should be personal and challenging. Stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to the most memorable experiences and new perspectives.
  3. Reading is a mix of fun and learning. Choosing books that are entertaining yet insightful can bring joy and comfort to your life.

Tlaxcala

Cosmographia • 1497 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Literature
  1. The post is part of the Atlas' Notes series on cosmographia.substack.com, focusing on art, poetry, literature, cartography, and photography centered around a specific place.
  2. Access to the full post is reserved for paid subscribers.
  3. The post by M. E. Rothwell on Tlaxcala was published on Jan 16, 2024.

A Failed Rock Adaption of Dune Might Have Starred Mick Jagger, Orson Welles & Salvador Dalí (with Music by Pink Floyd)

The Honest Broker • 9441 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Famous films that were planned but never made include adaptations like Orson Welles of 'Heart of Darkness', Martin Scorsese's George Gershwin biopic, and Spike Lee's 'Porgy and Bess'
  2. The failed rock adaptation of 'Dune' envisioned in the 1970s had a star-studded cast like Mick Jagger and Salvador Dalí, but the ambitious project never materialized due to challenges and lack of funding
  3. Alejandro Jodorowsky's extravagant vision for 'Dune' involved notable figures like Salvador Dalí and Pink Floyd, but the project collapsed after spending extensively on script, storyboards, and negotiations

Eloise's Legacy

Burnt Toast by Virginia Sole-Smith • 2614 implied HN points • 25 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The reason for the trip was afternoon tea at The Plaza - inspired by the iconic picture book "Eloise."
  2. Eloise represents a girl who has adventurous experiences that are often reserved for boys in children's books.
  3. The Plaza's Eloise branding has evolved into an American Girl dolls-Barbie fusion, catering to a different idea of American girlhood.

Shiraz شیراز

Cosmographia • 2116 implied HN points • 16 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The post is a special guest edition of the Moleskine Notebooks, featuring a writer who shares a love for Rūmī.
  2. Access to the post is for paid subscribers only, with an option to subscribe or sign in if already a paid subscriber.
  3. The guest writer, kd, is a Persian-American mystic living in NYC after leaving Austin due to bachelorette party influx.

You don't need a vision

Austin Kleon • 3457 implied HN points • 20 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. You don't always need a clear vision for your future; sometimes it's okay to go with the flow. Life can be unpredictable, and paths can change in unexpected ways.
  2. Focusing too much on a specific vision can limit your perspective and keep you stuck in the past. It's important to stay open to new possibilities and experiences.
  3. While having a vision can be motivating for some, others may find inspiration in exploring their interests and passions without a set end goal. Enjoy the journey and see where it leads.

Inside my commonplace diary

Austin Kleon • 5155 implied HN points • 28 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Keeping a commonplace diary is a fun way to collect quotes and thoughts. Instead of writing about daily life, you can enjoy capturing interesting things you hear or read.
  2. Over time, a commonplace diary can reveal themes and connections between quotes, making it a creative project. It can even help inspire new writing pieces or ideas.
  3. Writing things down by hand helps you remember them better, and it feels like a little adventure in time. Looking back at your quotes can bring back memories and show how your thoughts have grown.

Studio as a verb

Austin Kleon • 3217 implied HN points • 30 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The word 'studio' comes from a verb, which reminds us that being creative is an active process. It means that we should always engage in making, experimenting, and creating.
  2. To generate great ideas, start by getting rid of your lesser ones first. Sometimes copying others can lead you to unique insights and inspiration.
  3. You can connect with people in special ways, like through shared interests. For example, cartooning helped a son bond with his elderly father, showing how creativity can strengthen relationships.

ATW Livestream Today at 4 PM ET/3 PM CT

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1529 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. There's a livestream event happening today at 4 PM ET. It's a good chance to catch up on recent discussions.
  2. Walter and Matt will be discussing the events from the weekend as well as their book club pick, Orwell's 1984.
  3. You can watch the livestream on different platforms, including the Substack app, Rumble, and YouTube.

What was the gothic revival?

The Common Reader • 1311 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The Gothic revival was a movement that brought back medieval art and architecture, blending it with modern ideas of the time.
  2. Jane Austen made fun of Gothic themes in her work, questioning why a writer in the 1790s would choose to focus on old-fashioned medieval elements.
  3. The shift from Gothic to classical styles reflected a change in thinking during the Enlightenment, where reason and science became more valued than the mystery of the past.

Old notes to myself

Austin Kleon • 2358 implied HN points • 05 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Don't get too caught up in your own ideas. It's important to think about the bigger world outside of your thoughts and not just what you've read.
  2. Creating art is like sharing energy. The connection between the artist and the audience brings the work to life.
  3. Inspiration comes from what's around you, not just from within. Pay attention to the world and gather ideas from your surroundings.

More for me!

Austin Kleon • 3437 implied HN points • 09 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Embracing the phrase 'More for me!' can help you focus on what you enjoy, even if others don’t share your tastes. It’s a great way to remind yourself to keep doing what makes you happy.
  2. Nostalgia can bring up deep feelings when revisiting childhood memories. Reflecting on these moments can help us appreciate our past and connect with loved ones.
  3. Listening to music, like Miles Davis's 'Milestones,' can set the mood for your experiences. Finding the right soundtrack can transform ordinary moments into something special.

Screw You Guys, I Root For Muad'Dib

Freddie deBoer • 8446 implied HN points • 06 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. In the Dune universe, the writer roots for Paul Atreides despite knowing it won't end well
  2. The Dune 2 movie is praised for being a meticulously crafted, popular film with excellent cast and stunning visuals
  3. Despite the warnings about not rooting for Paul due to the themes of the story, the writer still finds him and his rebel army cool and follows Muad'Dib passionately

The Battle Between The Inner Life and The Outer Life

Sparks from Culture by David Roberts • 1179 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Modern American capitalism has constrained many lives, leading to angst and a pursuit of more slow-paced lives.
  2. E.M. Forster's 'Howards End' explores the conflict between inner and outer ways of life, highlighting the impact of capitalism on personal relations and daily duties.
  3. There is resistance to hyper-capitalism in modern America, with a growing push for a slower life, nature, and emphasis on inner values.

Goethe and Faust for a New Age

Contemplations on the Tree of Woe • 3167 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. J.R.R. Tolkien might be compared to Goethe due to their deep knowledge and the large, influential works they created. Both men built complex worlds in their writings that resonate with deeply human themes.
  2. Tolkien's character Elendil is seen as a modern hero similar to Aeneas, embodying survival, duty, and the preservation of culture. Both characters face the challenge of keeping their people's traditions alive in the wake of disaster.
  3. Tolkien's influence goes beyond literature; it is shaping political movements today. His themes of resilience and tradition are resonating with various groups, especially in Italy and among certain political factions in the U.S.

The Bluestocking, vol 304: Cowardice and AI crime fiction

The Bluestocking • 1120 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. The cost of theater tickets in different countries can impact the accessibility of culture and art, affecting the sustainability of artistic communities.
  2. AI is being used to generate fiction at a rapid pace, showcasing the pressure some authors feel to produce content quickly.
  3. Concerns about age and capabilities arise in politics, like with President Biden's age being a cause for debate.

Messages from the compost heap

Austin Kleon • 3197 implied HN points • 23 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Reading classics like Don Quixote can be surprisingly funny and relatable, showing that older books are often much more lively than we think.
  2. Riding a bicycle can bring joy and a fresh perspective to life, making the city feel like a new place to explore.
  3. Boredom is important for everyone, not just kids. It can help spark creativity and give us time to think.

Here are the Substacks You Should Read

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 12 implied HN points • 06 Mar 26
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Comedy Distant is a sharp, darkly funny satire newsletter that skewers improv and workplace culture with wicked wit, filling a rare comedy niche on Substack.
  2. big reader bad grades mixes memoir and literary reportage in a distinctive numbered format, offering poignant and often funny reflections from life as a grocery-store clerk and a singular novelist’s perspective.
  3. Cross Current delivers deep, wide-ranging cultural and political essays that weave history, media, and ideas together, pushing readers beyond simple left‑versus‑right debates and rewarding slow, thoughtful reading.

What's got my attention this week #43

The Shift With Sam Baker • 698 implied HN points • 05 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Julia Louis-Dreyfus highlights the power of aging and questions the overrating of youth.
  2. Exploration of diverse topics like quilting for emotional sustenance and benefits of working with hands.
  3. Insightful discussions on various issues including gaslighting, book publishing, and the evolving roles of women.

Californias

The Map is Mostly Water • 1017 implied HN points • 29 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Literature
  1. Driving in California feels very different from New England. The long stretches of concrete can be surprising if you're used to forests and towns.
  2. California has a unique mix of landscapes, where lush greenery and dry, sunny areas coexist. It's a different kind of beauty than what you find in New England.
  3. Life decisions can be really influenced by where you live. The choice to stay in one place can shape your thoughts and experiences in unexpected ways.