The hottest Narrative Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Faith & Spirituality Topics

The First Road Trip

The Reclamation Era • 59 implied HN points • 11 Sep 23
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Taking a long car trip can be stressful but also a chance for special memories. It's all about managing the chaos and making the best of the journey.
  2. Family homes hold a lot of sentimental value, and saying goodbye can bring up deep feelings. It’s tough to let go of places that hold childhood memories.
  3. Being a mom means constantly trying to prove you're doing well, even when things get chaotic. It’s important to cherish moments with family, despite the challenges.

Night Raids and Gimmick Episodes

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 39 implied HN points • 11 Dec 23
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Book 10 of the Iliad, also known as the 'Doloneia', explores the themes of politics, heroism, and narrative traditions through a nighttime raid by Diomedes and Odysseus.
  2. There is debate among scholars about the inclusion of Book 10 in Homer's Iliad, with some suggesting it was a later addition by Peisistratos.
  3. Gimmick episodes like the Doloneia in the Iliad serve as side quests, allowing for experimentation and expansion of the narrative world, providing a break from the main plot while still contributing to the overall story.

Afterlife

Castalia • 199 implied HN points • 22 Jul 22
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Exploring the past can reveal hidden treasures, like old photographs that tell stories of people and moments forgotten. It's like finding pieces of history in your own home.
  2. Photography can capture emotions and experiences in ways that may not always be recognized until much later. A casual snapshot can hold deeper significance than we realize.
  3. Navigating relationships with family, especially when it comes to memories and possessions, can be complicated. It's essential to communicate openly and make decisions together about what matters most.

The Mathematics of Literature

Holodoxa • 79 implied HN points • 30 Mar 23
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Math and literature are more interconnected than commonly thought, with Sarah Hart's book exploring the relationship between the two disciplines in depth.
  2. Once Upon a Prime delves into how mathematics influences different aspects of literature, from fundamental structures like plot and rhyme scheme to using mathematical metaphors and deploying math creatively in storytelling.
  3. Hart's book is a mix of engaging content, with some parts feeling like random trivia, leading to a reading experience that can be a bit scattered but ultimately offers unique insights into the blend of math and literature.

Stranded in Iliad 8 with Nestor and Diomedes

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 39 implied HN points • 01 Dec 23
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Book 8 of the Iliad sets the stage for the crisis that leads to Achilles' return in Book 9, showcasing themes of divine control and human leadership in the face of absence.
  2. Neoanalysis in Homeric scholarship examines the original versions of the poems before they were edited or altered, shedding light on the complexities of textual transmission and interpretation.
  3. The challenges of neoanalysis include risks of oversimplification in tracing narrative connections, potentially overlooking audience experiences and the evolution of traditional narratives.
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When you dream, what do you dream about?

Soaring Twenties • 61 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Dreaming about love can feel very real and personal. It's a chance to think about what we truly desire in life.
  2. Fear often holds us back from chasing our dreams and expressing our feelings. Recognizing this fear is the first step to overcoming it.
  3. Living in the present is just as important as dreaming about the future. Enjoying today can lead to meaningful moments and connections.

Rizz

Soaring Twenties • 85 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
⚔ Fiction Narrative
  1. Stories can be playful and fun, and that's what makes them entertaining. It's important to engage the reader and craft something they'll enjoy.
  2. Friendship can take unexpected turns, especially when it comes to love interests. Being supportive to a friend can lead to your own heartache.
  3. The way you tell a story matters. You can shape it however you want, and it's okay to think differently about how it should end.

Why the Right Wing Needs to Abandon the Term "Mary Sue"

Trantor Publishing • 99 implied HN points • 25 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Narrative
  1. The concept of a 'Mary Sue' in storytelling is complex and can't be defined solely by a list of traits.
  2. The focus should be on evaluating the overall narrative and meaning of a story, rather than nitpicking character traits.
  3. Trying to label characters as 'Mary Sues' can sometimes overlook the importance of understanding the author's beliefs and intentions behind the story.

The End

Story Club with George Saunders • 52 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. The story 'The Death of Ivan Ilyich' has a powerful ending that raises many thoughts and feelings. It's a perfect example of how storytelling can deeply impact us.
  2. As you read stories, pay attention to what captures your interest or confuses you. These moments can lead to deeper understanding and help improve your own writing.
  3. Discussing stories in a group can enhance your experience. Sharing questions and thoughts can lead to exciting discoveries and insights into the text.

The Metaphysics of Novels and Magic

Orbis Tertius • 273 implied HN points • 26 Jun 23
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Magic is understood based on the purpose it serves, not the cause by which it arises.
  2. Fiction is teleological, creating a narrative based on purpose rather than identifiable cause.
  3. Novels are like magic, creating networks of occurrences with multiple connections, making them more magical than other forms of narrative.

Better than our Fathers!

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 39 implied HN points • 03 Nov 23
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. In Homer's epic poetry, rivalry and competition between heroes play a significant role, shaping the narratives and relations between characters.
  2. The comparison between generations in Homer's work challenges the idea of valuing the past over the present, showcasing a dynamic of improvement and advancement.
  3. The Theban epic tradition, though not directly preserved in extant Homer texts, had a significant impact on the Homeric world, contributing to themes of heroism and conflict.

Me Gustas Tu

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 18 Jun 23
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Friendships can be deep and meaningful, even when they start in surprising places like a hostel. The connection shared between friends can make life feel rich and exciting.
  2. Romantic feelings can be messy and confusing, especially when they involve friends. It's common to navigate awkward moments and unspoken feelings during relationships.
  3. Life paths can change unexpectedly, and it's okay to feel lost at times. Relationships and experiences can lead to personal growth, even when things don't go as planned.

Transfer at 42nd Street

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 315 implied HN points • 10 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Narrative
  1. Feeling like the center of attention in a crowded, fearful scene can be unsettling.
  2. Unexpected situations in public transportation can lead to comical and awkward interactions.
  3. Perception and perspective can greatly influence how others view and react to a person in a social setting.

From Politics to Poetics

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 39 implied HN points • 18 Oct 23
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. The second book of the Iliad focuses on politics and narrative traditions, with critical scenes contributing to major themes like politics, heroism, and gods interacting with humans.
  2. The Achaean assembly's actions in book 2 resolve political tension but do not fully address Achilles' absence, showcasing the resilience of the Achaeans despite conflicts.
  3. The Catalogue of Ships in book 2 serves as a reflection of mythical space and geography of antiquity, engaging with epic narrative and political dynamics, transcending the timeline of the main plot.

The Vanishing Kingdom

Once Upon A News • 39 implied HN points • 01 Apr 23
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. A mysterious stranger brought prosperity to a kingdom in exchange for part of the king's soul.
  2. The newfound prosperity led to neglect of family bonds and a decline in the birth rate.
  3. To restore balance, the king made a sacrifice to regain harmony between work and family, realizing true prosperity comes from love and relationships.

Ribbonfarm Studio --> Contraptions

Breaking Smart • 67 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Narrative
  1. The newsletter is changing its name from Ribbonfarm Studio to Contraptions. This will help give it a clear identity that reflects the topics it covers.
  2. The writer is currently on a break but plans to resume regular writing soon. They are excited about exploring new themes and ideas under the new name.
  3. During the break, the writer is focused on building physical contraptions and enjoying their time off. They want the newsletter to feel fresh and different when they come back.

Death and Life

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 48 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Death is a common theme in our language, showing up in many phrases and everyday conversations. This reflects how deeply the idea of death influences our thoughts and expressions.
  2. Words related to life, such as 'vital' and 'vivacious,' are also frequently used in discussions to convey a sense of energy and positivity. These words connect to our experiences and perceptions of being alive.
  3. Both death and life are rich topics in literature, often explored through powerful quotes and themes. They reveal our struggles and feelings about existence, making them relatable and poignant.

The tale of a cigar on the morning after

Soaring Twenties • 61 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Sometimes we want to enjoy cozy moments, like winter, but we also miss the warmth of summer. It's okay to crave a little sunshine even in the darkest days.
  2. Life can feel heavy with worries, like reading bad news while on vacation. Sometimes, it's better to set those thoughts aside and enjoy the moment.
  3. Small accidents, like stubbed toes, can happen when we least expect them. But a good laugh and a moment with loved ones can help ease the pain.

What A Dangerous Thing to Say!

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 19 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Book 14 of the Iliad presents a moment of crisis with leaders making flawed decisions and the consequences of their actions.
  2. The speech by Odysseus to Agamemnon showcases themes of leadership, dissent, and the impact of recklessness in Homeric poetry.
  3. Diomedes emerges as a significant character in Book 14, embodying the exploration of dissent, consensus, and the importance of multiple voices in decision-making.

One and a half knots

Soaring Twenties • 131 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. The story depicts a family on a unique island-hopping vacation.
  2. The father and son enjoy adventures and playful interactions.
  3. The narrative weaves humor and imagination as they explore the surroundings.

"Theft"

Story Club with George Saunders • 54 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. The story explores deep feelings of loss and how they impact our lives. It shows that remembering past losses can affect our present emotions.
  2. Katherine Anne Porter's 'Theft' invites readers to think about the nature of storytelling. It provides insights that can help us understand stories better.
  3. There’s an interesting trivia piece related to the story that sheds light on its themes. Learning these little facts can enhance our appreciation of the narrative.

Mappy New Year

Breaking Smart • 45 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. The focus is shifting away from annual summaries to a more thoughtful exploration of writing themes. This change aims to reflect a clearer narrative in the work.
  2. Serialized projects will be replaced by standalone posts, as the writer wants to stay focused and adapt better to the Substack format.
  3. The newsletter price will increase soon, but current subscribers can lock in their rates by subscribing before the change happens.

The Getting To Know You Phase

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 05 Sep 22
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Relationships can start off exciting and full of charm but might later face challenges. It's important to keep the connection alive and not let things get stuck in a routine.
  2. Getting to know someone deeply takes time and can reveal difficult histories. Sharing personal stories helps build understanding, but it can also change the tone of the relationship.
  3. Mental health issues can impact relationships in complex ways. It's essential to be open, supportive, and honest about how these challenges affect each other.

Insidious Inception?

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 19 implied HN points • 22 Dec 23
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. In Nestor's speech to Patroklos in Iliad 11, he tells a persuasive story aiming to redirect Achilles' rage towards Hektor, a crucial moment in completing the plot of the Iliad
  2. The way Nestor tells his story and the structure of his speech provide insights into the effectiveness and indirect nature of his persuasion, highlighting the complexity of narrative influence
  3. Nestor's speech offers potential solutions and hedging for various outcomes, showcasing the adaptability of storytelling for different audiences and circumstances in Homeric poetry

The Two Types of Writing Problems

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 48 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Writing problems can be split into two main types: composition issues and expression issues. Composition deals with how to arrange your words, while expression is about capturing your thoughts.
  2. When you know what you want to say but can't find the right words, it's usually a composition problem. There's often a solution or guide that can help you find the right way to say it.
  3. Writing is a mix of sharing what you're thinking and continuously refining it. It's okay to struggle; the goal is to bring the ideas in your mind to life on the page.

The Constitution

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 13 Dec 23
⚔ Fiction Narrative
  1. The club scene is filled with people pretending to have a good time, but many might actually be feeling uncomfortable or fake. It's interesting how everyone tries to fit in, even when they might not really be enjoying themselves.
  2. Some men in the club seem to feel the need to show off and prove their masculinity, which creates a tense atmosphere. Women often find themselves in the role of managing or calming these men's behaviors.
  3. The story touches on the complexities of attraction and relationships, exploring how societal pressures affect both men and women. It suggests that sometimes people enable harmful behaviors in others, leading to confusion and disappointment.

Fridge Thief

Disaffected Newsletter • 99 implied HN points • 02 Sep 22
😂 Humor Narrative
  1. Sometimes, things aren't what they seem. What you think is a treat may be something else entirely.
  2. It's easy to make a mistake if you're not paying attention, especially when you're tired.
  3. Living with housemates can lead to funny misunderstandings about food in the fridge.

Day After

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 12 Jul 22
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. After a wild night, the main character feels a mix of joy and anxiety in the morning. Despite moments of connection, worries about life and relationships start to creep in.
  2. There is a struggle between wanting intimacy and dealing with personal issues. The interactions show a disconnect where one partner's needs clash with the other's feelings of aversion.
  3. The character reflects on the complexity of love and the pain of potential loss. It's about accepting that life is messy and relationships are made up of different parts of oneself, which can't always be unified.

Girl Talk

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 16 Jan 23
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Relationships can be complicated, especially when it comes to comparing partners and feeling imbalanced. Both partners need to feel valued and respected for the relationship to work.
  2. Moving on from a tough relationship can feel freeing and open up new opportunities. It's possible to enjoy independence and even find success after a breakup.
  3. It's natural to wonder about past relationships, but sometimes transparency doesn't lead to understanding. Open dialogue is important, but not always easy.

Brothers in Arms

Castalia • 39 implied HN points • 15 May 23
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. The story shows the challenges of young people trying to make a difference through political campaigns. It highlights the hard work and dedication involved, often mixed with feelings of loneliness and uncertainty.
  2. Music plays a huge role in the character's life, providing comfort and connection during stressful times. The main character finds solace in songs that evoke deep emotions and memories.
  3. Friendship evolves in unexpected ways, blurring lines between closeness and romance. The relationship between the main character and Pak highlights the complexities of connection in a chaotic environment.

does this happen to you, too? | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 31 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. The poem reflects on the comfort and familiarity of home, highlighting quiet moments and soft spaces. It captures how simple things, like a warm blanket or a dog, bring solace after a long day.
  2. Themes of loneliness and the search for deeper connections are present. There is an emptiness felt during late hours, hinting at a desire for something more meaningful than just watching news.
  3. The use of imagery, like 'plum drunk on cheap wine', evokes a sense of relaxation but also highlights a yearning for greater fulfillment in life. It suggests that sometimes we seek comfort but still feel unfulfilled.

street life | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 31 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Heavy rain can remind us of the struggles of homeless people and those who are often overlooked in society. It's a tough reality, but it's hard to ignore when the rain falls.
  2. Capitalism can sometimes make us forget about the personal struggles of individuals. It's easy to focus on money and things rather than the well-being of others.
  3. Even though life can be harsh, rain can also symbolize a fresh start. While it can bring problems, it also has the power to cleanse and renew.

Bonus Post

Story Club with George Saunders • 12 implied HN points • 22 Jul 25
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. George Saunders shares translations of stories by Ivan Bunin, highlighting the importance of different interpretations. Each translation offers a fresh perspective on the original text.
  2. The post includes downloadable PDF versions of these stories, making it easier for readers to engage with the material. This provides a valuable resource for fans of literature.
  3. The focus is on creating a community through sharing literature, encouraging discussions and connections among readers. This helps to foster a love for storytelling and its impact.

They were allergic to sunlight | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 14 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. The poem tells a story about a girl named Sara who is allergic to sunlight, which affects her life and how others see her.
  2. It explores themes of attraction and adolescence, showing how a boy's feelings change when he learns about her condition.
  3. The setting is a school where Sara struggles with her allergy, feeling different and isolated while the other kids enjoy outdoor activities.

big fight with the girlfriend over nothing really | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 28 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Sometimes fights can happen over small things that don't really matter. It's important to recognize when that happens.
  2. Words can hurt, and sometimes it's better to keep them to ourselves to avoid misunderstandings in relationships.
  3. Love can be unpredictable and requires balance; it's a give-and-take that can easily tip in the wrong direction.

Five Books I Like

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 59 implied HN points • 04 Dec 22
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. Sharing book recommendations can inspire others and foster community. It's nice to talk about what we love to read.
  2. Books that explore nature and language can be especially captivating. They help us appreciate storytelling and the world around us.
  3. Encouraging readers to share their favorite books creates a dialogue. It can lead to discovering new stories and perspectives.

Delusions of Grandeur

Soaring Twenties • 38 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
⚔ Fiction Narrative
  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.

undefeated | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 38 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
📚 Literature Narrative
  1. True freedom comes from being in uncomfortable places without expectations. It’s about finding yourself in unexpected situations where you learn more about life.
  2. Even when life is tough, there are moments of peace among those who have very little. People keep waking up to face each new day, despite their struggles.
  3. Resilience is key. Despite hardship, some people still feel undefeated because they embrace their experiences, no matter how painful.