The hottest Non-fiction Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Literature Topics

2024 Kvetching & Books

Kvetch • 33 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
📚 Literature Books Reading History Fiction Non-fiction
  1. The author had plans to work on some big writing projects this year but ended up not completing them. Life events like having a new baby and starting a new fund took up a lot of time.
  2. Despite not finishing their main projects, the author still wrote a good number of pieces and saw their readership double. Their most popular piece encouraged some readers to have more kids.
  3. Looking ahead, the author has new ideas for writing and is taking it week by week, while hoping to explore topics related to history and demographics.

Notes on Memoir Structure

The Fairest Writer • 259 implied HN points • 20 Feb 24
📚 Literature Memoir Writing Non-fiction Creative Process Storytelling
  1. Start writing by keeping a memory journal. Write down significant moments to help you remember what to include in your memoir.
  2. Listen to your material while writing. The best structure for your story often comes from how you feel about your experiences, so be flexible and adjust as needed.
  3. During revisions, be willing to cut parts that don't fit. Always ask if you can make it better, instead of just wanting to be done with it.

"Theft"

Story Club with George Saunders • 54 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Storytelling 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.

Emigrant

KERFUFFLE • 19 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Drama Non-fiction Essays
  1. Traveling at night can be essential in tough environments, like deserts, where daytime heat is unbearable. It allows explorers to avoid the worst conditions and push on.
  2. Survival often depends on reaching resources like water and food as quickly as possible. Delaying for comfort could lead to danger or death.
  3. The journey can be all-consuming, making it difficult to think about anything except immediate survival. The past and future fade away, focusing only on the present challenges.
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Writing What You Can't Say

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 60 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
📚 Literature Writing Poetry Fiction Non-fiction Criticism
  1. Listening to how you speak can help improve your writing. Pay attention to moments when you hesitate or struggle to find the right words; this is where your best ideas can emerge.
  2. The search for the right word can be difficult, but it's a valuable process for a writer. Those tricky moments highlight what you really want to express and push you to find better ways to describe it.
  3. Saying what you feel but can't easily put into words is a key part of writing. Embracing confusion and uncertainty can actually lead to more compelling stories and ideas.

the thought that spills out | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 42 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Non-fiction Essays Prose
  1. Poetry can give you confidence during tough moments, helping you communicate feelings you've been avoiding. It's like a comforting drink that encourages honest conversations.
  2. Emotional experiences can lead to tears, which poetry captures beautifully, showing how feelings can overwhelm us like an avalanche. It reminds us that emotions are powerful and can take control of our lives.
  3. Poetry often reflects the struggles we face, like long journeys in search of relief. It illustrates the challenges and the growth that comes from facing pain and searching for peace.

Books I Read in 2024

From the Desk • 18 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Book Reviews Reading habits Personal Reflection
  1. Reading has become more challenging due to distractions and life's demands, especially with young kids around. It’s hard to find time and focus to get lost in a book.
  2. Returning to old favorite books can reignite the joy of reading, as familiar stories often bring comfort and engagement. Some classics can really pull you in, no matter how many times you've read them.
  3. It's important to prioritize reading only good books. If a book isn’t engaging or enjoyable, it’s okay to put it down and move on to something better.

It grows | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 21 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Essays Fiction Non-fiction Drama
  1. The poem talks about something that grows strong even without roots. It suggests resilience and strength in being different.
  2. There's a mention of a 'monster' that goes unnoticed but still makes its presence felt. This could mean that some things have a big impact even if they're not seen.
  3. It feels like the poem is encouraging us to accept things that don't fit in, showing that they can have their own importance and meaning.

just like a poet | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 31 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Prose Essays Fiction Non-fiction
  1. Poets often spend a lot of time reflecting alone, which can lead to deep thoughts and memories. It's a journey where they confront their feelings and experiences.
  2. Pain and hurt are significant themes for poets, but they can also serve as motivation to create. This process is about finding meaning amidst the emptiness they sometimes feel.
  3. Despite their struggles, poets continue to write and express themselves. A simple heartbeat is enough reason for them to keep exploring their thoughts and emotions.

We find what we look for

Austin Kleon • 1358 implied HN points • 31 May 22
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Memoir Essays Philosophy
  1. We notice things based on what we are looking for. If we're not paying attention to something, we might miss it even if it's right in front of us.
  2. Our experiences are shaped by what we choose to focus on. What we find in the world depends on where we direct our attention.
  3. Different perspectives can lead to different interpretations of the same event. How we see things can change based on our interests and experiences.

I am the poet (ode to Walt Whitman)

Tumbleweed Words • 31 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Drama Non-fiction
  1. The poet expresses a deep connection with nature and reality. They feel the beauty and truth in the world around them, like the song of a bird.
  2. The poet understands the relationship between human experiences and nature. They highlight the balance between warmth and loss in human interactions.
  3. There is a recognition of personal growth and change. The poet reflects on overcoming past scorn to embrace new virtues and ideas.

Booksbooksbooks 12/24

GOOD INTERNET • 13 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Non-fiction Authors Genres
  1. Different books can have very mixed reviews. Some might have a few great stories while others are less enjoyable.
  2. Authors like Stephen King and Adrian Tchaikovsky often explore deep themes in their works, blending genres like science fiction and horror.
  3. Books about philosophy and climate change offer unique insights and perspectives on society's challenges, encouraging readers to think critically about our world today.

A Bone to Pick (With Me)

Story Club with George Saunders • 37 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Criticism
  1. The importance of intention in writing is significant. It's about understanding what you want to communicate and why it matters.
  2. Engaging with feedback can enhance the writing process. Listening to others can provide new perspectives and improve your work.
  3. Creative exercises can be beneficial. They can stimulate ideas and help writers think outside the box.

The 2018 "Slouching" Draft "Themes" Chapter

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 15 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction Critique Narrative History Culture
  1. The discussion explores multiple important themes that happened alongside the main events of the 20th century. It's important to look at history from different angles instead of just one big story.
  2. There are at least six significant things that shaped our world that often get overlooked. These aspects help us better understand the complexities of history.
  3. Widening our perspective helps us appreciate the richness of our past and how it affects our present and future. Recognizing these different themes can lead to a deeper understanding of society.

Essay Club: Why I Write by George Orwell

Mind & Mythos • 179 implied HN points • 18 Nov 23
📚 Literature Essays Fiction Non-fiction Writing Criticism
  1. George Orwell wanted to make political writing more artistic and impactful. He believed that writing should not just inform, but also engage the reader emotionally.
  2. Orwell reflected on his personal motivations for writing, showing that his experiences shaped his views and style. He felt that understanding one’s own reasons for writing is crucial.
  3. His work reminds us that writing can be a powerful tool for social change. Orwell believed that through good writing, we can influence thoughts and inspire action.

My Year in Books - 2024

Tippets by Taps • 6 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Biographies Science fiction Literary Criticism
  1. Reading can bring new ideas and perspectives. It’s fun to dive into different stories and learn from various authors.
  2. Science fiction is becoming more relevant as technology advances. Many readers are excited to explore how these ideas might relate to our future.
  3. It's great to share book recommendations with friends. Asking others about their favorite reads can lead to discovering new and interesting books.

Six Books I Recommend 2023

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 119 implied HN points • 28 Nov 23
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Book Reviews Poetry Storytelling
  1. The author shares six book recommendations for 2023, focusing on natural history and storytelling. These books inspire him, and he appreciates how they explore language.
  2. The author encourages readers to also share their favorite books, emphasizing the joy of discussing literature.
  3. This message is intended for paid subscribers, creating a sense of community and connection among them during the holiday season.

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Nice Try • 239 implied HN points • 04 Feb 23
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Non-fiction Essays Narrative
  1. Sharing and connecting with people through writing can be a great experience. It allows for creativity and community building.
  2. Joining a subscription plan might offer extra benefits and exclusive content. This can enhance your reading and engagement with the content.
  3. Starting your own publication can be easy and rewarding. It gives you a platform to express yourself and share your thoughts with others.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 159 implied HN points • 24 Apr 23
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Non-fiction Cultural critique
  1. George Saunders is a talented writer, but there's concern that his style leads to flat, cartoonish characters in literature. Some believe this choice in writing makes stories feel less complex and lacks emotional depth.
  2. Susan Neiman critiques how the left has shifted from a focus on liberal universalism to a more victim-centered approach, suggesting that this change affects how power and justice are viewed in society.
  3. Neiman argues that the Enlightenment's values of reason and individual rights should be reclaimed, as she believes they can lead to a better understanding of justice, contrasting it with modern identitarianism that may neglect these principles.

Good Luck / Grasshopper

Nice Try • 39 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Stories
  1. It's okay to feel nervous and unsure about what to say sometimes. Everyone experiences those moments.
  2. Sharing stories can be a great way to connect with others and express yourself.
  3. Taking a chance, like performing or speaking in public, can lead to new experiences and opportunities.

The Non-Fiction Novel and the Outlines of a New Form

Castalia • 279 implied HN points • 22 Jul 22
📚 Literature Non-fiction Fiction Narrative Essays Documentary
  1. There is a growing preference for non-fiction and reality-based storytelling over traditional fiction. People are finding more connection with real stories and characters, especially in documentaries and reality TV.
  2. The lines between reality and fiction are blurring, with new forms of writing emerging that mix elements of both. Books like Labatut's show how real events can be told with creative twists, forcing us to reconsider how we view truth in storytelling.
  3. Many writers now want to explore deeper truths by combining facts with imaginative narratives. This shift suggests that audiences are craving more authentic experiences in literature, where the story feels both real and creatively engaging.

House Sitting in Kiev—Or Why I Read

Vremya • 479 implied HN points • 02 Jul 21
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Classics Reading Culture
  1. House sitting in Kiev gave me a chance to explore the city and enjoy time alone. It was during this time that I rekindled my love for reading.
  2. I realized that reading is about personal freedom and self-discovery. The books we choose help shape who we are.
  3. It's important to choose what we read for ourselves rather than letting others dictate it. Everyone should have the freedom to explore different ideas and authors, even if they can be controversial.

a personal note of truthful expression | must reads

Tumbleweed Words • 70 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
📚 Literature Non-fiction Biography Poetry Fiction Bookstores
  1. The author reflects on their three years on Substack and the preference for minimal self-sharing on social media.
  2. Reading 'On the Road' at sixteen inspired the author's love for writing and reading, shaping their literary journey.
  3. The author's travels to different places like Paris and America introduced them to various literary figures, fueling their passion for words.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 15 Mar 23
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Non-fiction Cultural criticism Historical Analysis
  1. Andrew Martin's book 'Cool For America' explores millennials feeling lost and their struggles with identity in urban and rural settings. The stories highlight the challenges of relationships and the nostalgic, sometimes trivial concerns of a generation.
  2. Marie Favereau's 'The Horde' presents the Mongols as effective empire builders rather than just violent conquerors. It shows how their administrative skills led to a unique and lasting influence on trade and governance in the regions they ruled.
  3. Both books reflect on generational issues, whether through the lens of modern millennials or the historical Mongols. They encourage readers to think about how identity and culture evolve over time and the complexities of societal change.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 06 Nov 22
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Non-fiction Authors Cultural critique
  1. In 'The Family Chao', the story explores the complexities of immigrant life in America through quirky characters, but struggles to fully connect their experiences and motivations. It uses a blend of humor and drama to highlight the challenges of cultural assimilation.
  2. Raymond Geuss's 'Not Thinking Like A Liberal' offers a unique perspective on education and community, contrasting Catholic and Protestant viewpoints. He emphasizes how being raised in a different cultural environment can provide valuable insights that challenge mainstream liberal ideas.
  3. Both books share a theme of questioning societal narratives. While 'The Family Chao' delves into personal identity against a cultural backdrop, Geuss critiques liberalism's shortcomings, suggesting that our understanding of society is more complex than commonly accepted beliefs.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 30 Oct 22
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction Non-fiction Mental health Cultural criticism
  1. Fernanda Melchor's book _Paradais_ uses long, run-on sentences to create a tense and dark atmosphere, showing characters trapped in their struggles and poor choices. It effectively highlights the theme of escalating darkness in the lives of its characters.
  2. Rachel Aviv’s _Strangers To Ourselves_ presents complex case studies in psychiatry, advocating for a more personal and empathetic approach. Aviv highlights that conventional medical paths can sometimes worsen a patient's situation rather than help.
  3. Both books emphasize the importance of understanding individual experiences in literature and mental health treatment. They remind us that there are no simple solutions and that each person's story is unique with its own set of challenges.

On not reading (in English)

The Leftovers • 79 implied HN points • 11 Aug 22
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Translation Critique Language
  1. Taking a break from Anglophone literature and exploring works in different languages can introduce fresh themes and perspectives.
  2. Reading works by authors from various backgrounds, like Alberto Prunetti's, can provide unique and endearing storytelling experiences.
  3. Exploring literature in original languages, like Italian in the case of Prunetti's book, can offer a deeper understanding of the language nuances and cultural diversity.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 03 Apr 23
📚 Literature Book Reviews Non-fiction Fiction Political Analysis Author studies
  1. Michela Wrong's book argues that Rwanda's history, especially around the genocide, is more complex than commonly accepted. She suggests that both sides, Hutus and Tutsis, committed atrocities, which challenges traditional narratives.
  2. The book by Greg Berman and Aubrey Fox makes a strong case for incremental change in politics. They argue that small, gradual improvements by bureaucrats often lead to better outcomes than sudden, radical changes.
  3. Wrong's analysis of Rwanda highlights the harsh realities of power and violence, suggesting that leaders often prioritize control and security over democratic ideals, making it hard to see true change in such systems.