The hottest Poetry Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Literature Topics

"A Christmas Carol"

Story Club with George Saunders • 43 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Reading
  1. Reading can lead to powerful experiences that inspire and motivate us for the future. It's great to share suggestions with others as we plan our reading lists.
  2. Reflecting on what we've read helps us connect with the stories and their meanings. It's important to engage with good literature to enrich our lives.
  3. Sharing good books with friends and community can create a sense of bonding and support. Recommendations can help others discover wonderful new reads.

"A Christmas Carol"

Story Club with George Saunders • 34 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Poetry Essays Classic
  1. Structure in storytelling helps to present arguments clearly and logically. It's like the backbone that holds the whole story together.
  2. Exploring significant questions through a structured approach can deepen our understanding of the narrative and its characters.
  3. Understanding how to use structure can make writing more effective and engaging for readers. It guides them through the story smoothly.

"The space between me and me is you"

Five’s Substack • 139 implied HN points • 02 Jun 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Narrative Analysis Critique
  1. The narrator in the novel grapples with loss and hunger, representing a deep yearning for something unattainable. This desire leads to a cycle of violence towards the living, as she substitutes each victim for what she's truly searching for.
  2. Hunger is described not just as a physical need, but as a longing for hope and connection that can never be fully satisfied. Each meal offers a temporary escape, yet the true craving remains unfulfilled.
  3. The journey of the narrator shows that her ultimate goal is not to regain what she lost but to revisit a single perfect memory from her past. This reflects how memories shape our identities and the complex relationship we have with loss.
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Libertarian Poems

David Friedman’s Substack • 107 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Libertarianism Creative Writing Political themes Social Commentary
  1. Libertarian values emphasize personal freedom and individual rights. This means people should be able to live their lives as they choose.
  2. Poetry can be a powerful way to express political ideas and feelings. It helps share important messages in a creative way.
  3. The writings of famous authors contribute to the understanding of libertarian themes, showing how these ideas have been explored in literature.

Spell

Microanimism • 99 implied HN points • 21 Jun 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Poetry Visual art
  1. The post discusses using old words and imagery to paint a vivid end-of-the-world scene.
  2. It hints at themes of connection and intimacy in a desolate setting.
  3. The writing style appears poetic and thought-provoking, prompting readers to engage with deeper meanings.

a lifelong partnership | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 14 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Criticism Prose
  1. Long-term relationships often carry a sense of stability and permanence. It's nice to grow old together and reflect on life's journey.
  2. As couples age, they start to ponder deeper questions about their lives. They might think more about what really matters to them.
  3. Even after many years, love can feel fresh and impactful. The bond formed can leave lasting impressions, like a swan gliding gracefully on water.

have we met before? | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 31 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Essays Drama Literary Criticism
  1. Meeting new people often comes with casual questions like 'Have we met before?', especially at lively gatherings. It's a way to connect, even if you feel out of place.
  2. A lot of social situations feel more intense than they really are, filled with too much noise and overly serious conversations. It's easy to lose track of the fun.
  3. People often reveal a lot about themselves through their social behaviors and preferences. For instance, mentioning a local poetry night can spark a deeper understanding between strangers.

Bonus: The Not-So-Funny Valentine

The Recovering Academic • 356 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
📚 Literature Fiction Memoir Poetry
  1. Pranks are about power dynamics, either making someone feel powerless or including them, so it's important to know your audience to ensure pranks are taken in good spirit.
  2. Pranking can be a way to compensate for insecurity or trauma, and sometimes it can be used as a means of establishing dominance rather than fostering intimacy.
  3. Traditionally, pranks have been associated with men while women often dislike them due to past negative experiences, but humor is still largely attractive in men, with a balance needed to ensure pranks do not lead to feelings of shame or betrayal.

Digital poets

Philosophy bear • 71 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature AI Poetry Digital Media
  1. People can't easily tell the difference between AI and human-made art. In fact, they often prefer the AI art, even if it’s not very good.
  2. AI can produce poetry that at least matches the level of a talented amateur. Some AI-generated haikus can even be quite nice.
  3. There's still a question about whether AI can create art that is truly great. It remains unclear how to measure what's undeniably good in art.

It’s Harder than You Think Not to Think Like This

Opaque Hourglass • 319 implied HN points • 25 Feb 24
📚 Literature Poetry
  1. The struggle to balance work, money, leisure, and family time is highlighted in the poems.
  2. Exploring the irony of idolizing guns using the Second Amendment instead of focusing on the Second Commandment.
  3. The idea of a 'skip button' for thoughts is introduced, allowing a way to fast-forward through one's own mental processes.

Lord of Light

Opaque Hourglass • 299 implied HN points • 04 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Poetry
  1. The author recounts a personal moment involving his wife's pregnancy and a memorable scene from Game of Thrones, highlighting the emotional connection to a TV show.
  2. The description delves into the characters of The Hound and Beric Dondarrion, reflecting on their roles, actions, and the impact of their duel.
  3. The narrative ties the intense fight scene to the author's real-life experience of feeling his baby kick for the first time, showcasing a powerful and emotional connection.

The Fig Tree

Subtle Digressions • 119 implied HN points • 30 May 24
📚 Literature Poetry Prose Essays Fiction Classic
  1. Life offers many choices and opportunities, much like the figs on a tree. Each choice can lead to different futures and experiences.
  2. Not making a choice can lead to missed opportunities, just like the figs that fall and rot. It's important to decide on a path.
  3. Desiring too many things at once can be overwhelming. To find fulfillment, we need to pick one goal or dream to focus on.

Talking to ravens

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 1697 implied HN points • 27 Aug 22
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Mythology Storytelling Poetry Podcasts Events
  1. The book 'Hagitude: Reimagining the Second Half of Life' by Dr. Sharon Blackie explores the significance of storytelling in shaping our perceptions of aging and elderhood.
  2. The power of myths and stories lies in their ability to help us understand life, dream of a better existence, and inspire personal growth and change.
  3. Dr. Sharon Blackie emphasizes the importance of respecting and valuing older women, highlighting their wisdom, roles, and contributions to community.

Things to Call Water

Opaque Hourglass • 359 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
📚 Literature Poetry Books Writer
  1. The post explores amusing names for water, like 'idiot's vodka' and 'tap wine'.
  2. Water is playfully personified in various ways such as 'Dances with Eels' and 'The Artist Formerly Known as Ice'.
  3. The text showcases creative and whimsical descriptions for water that evoke vivid imagery and humor.

The Wintering Sky

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 1178 implied HN points • 03 Dec 22
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Rituals Mythology Connection Nature Poetry
  1. Winter brings the gift of the night sky, which holds importance and rituals for the author, celebrating the return of darkness and stars.
  2. The author values ceremonies that emerge naturally and mark the rising and setting of the sun during the winter season.
  3. The author shares research on stars possibly being 'minded' entities, emphasizing the importance of celebrating the sky and the cosmos around us.

How Great Writers Become Great

Mind & Mythos • 219 implied HN points • 29 Mar 24
📚 Literature Writing Poetry Philosophy Education Creativity
  1. Great writers often have time and space to focus on their work. Many famous writers dedicated their time to thinking and writing without many distractions.
  2. Younger writers may have more time but lack experience. Older writers have knowledge but often struggle to find time to write.
  3. Finding balance between family, work, and writing is tough. It's important to prioritize what matters most in life, even if it means having limits on achievements.

Diary: Maria Stepanova on Nadezhda Mandelstam, Literature and Truth

Book Post • 412 implied HN points • 06 Jan 24
📚 Literature Memoir Fiction Poetry Translation Book review
  1. Nadezhda Mandelstam's memoirs led to a significant shift towards nonfiction in contemporary prose.
  2. Authors like Mandelstam faced criticism for not fitting the established narrative, challenging traditional concepts of truth.
  3. Mandelstam's bold and unapologetic writing style defied caution and fear, offering a unique perspective on Soviet life.

a 90s night out in the UK | poem

Tumbleweed Words • 14 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Short Stories Creative Writing Narrative
  1. Feeling hungover and regretful is a common experience after a wild night out. It's normal to worry about what you did when you can't remember everything.
  2. Friends often share stories the next day, which can be funny but also a bit embarrassing. These conversations remind us of the craziness of the night before.
  3. Even after a rough morning, the idea of going out again can be tempting. It's easy to forget the bad parts when the excitement of night life calls again.

The Man and his Mountain

Cosmographia • 639 implied HN points • 25 Jun 23
📚 Literature Poetry
  1. The post revolves around a poem titled 'The Man and his Mountain' by M. E. Rothwell.
  2. The content seems to delve into imagery of nature and self-reflection.
  3. Access to the full post is available to paid subscribers only.

Treadmill

The Recovering Academic • 455 implied HN points • 08 Dec 23
📚 Literature Fiction Memoir Poetry
  1. The poem 'Treadmill' portrays a woman walking with determination and resilience through challenging situations, showing her perseverance.
  2. The woman's character in the poem highlights themes of overcoming obstacles, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity.
  3. The narrative captures the essence of facing hardships head-on, adapting to challenges, and ultimately emerging stronger from difficult experiences.

On regret: Two poets from two different centuries

Subtle Digressions • 99 implied HN points • 30 May 24
📚 Literature Poetry Creative Writing Artistic expression Historical Analysis
  1. Many people feel deep regret about not pursuing their creative passions as they reach the end of their lives. It's important to honor your creative urges and make time for them.
  2. According to poets Mary Oliver and Margaret Elizabeth Sangster, the regrets often come from things left undone rather than mistakes made. Missing opportunities can lead to heartache.
  3. Both poets highlight the emotional weight of unexpressed feelings and neglected connections. It’s a reminder to reach out and do the things that matter to us.

Countee Cullen's Lyric Ghosts

Journal of Free Black Thought • 6 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
📚 Literature Poetry Literary Analysis Cultural Studies Criticism
  1. Countee Cullen's poem addresses John Keats, showing a connection between the two poets. It suggests that both poets understand beauty and the passage of time in a unique way.
  2. Cullen's use of the season of spring represents renewal and transformation, linking life and death. It creates a feeling that past and future moments are blended in this beautiful season.
  3. The poem invites readers to feel included in the conversation between Cullen and Keats. It blurs the lines of life and death, making everyone a part of this shared experience of beauty.

Horseshoe Fortune

The Recovering Academic • 336 implied HN points • 05 Jan 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction
  1. The post features a poem titled 'Horseshoe Fortune.'
  2. The poem describes the experience of pitching horseshoes at twilight, focusing on the imagery of the surroundings and the aim for precision.
  3. The speaker expresses their determination to achieve the perfect toss, emphasizing the importance of hitting the mark with the horseshoe ring.

"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.

Unpacking My Digital Library

What Is Called Thinking? • 45 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
📚 Literature Poetry Philosophy Criticism Art Culture
  1. Curating and sharing links can connect different ideas and inspire thought. It's a fun way to mix academic work with popular culture.
  2. Communicating the truth requires care; it's not just about saying what you think, but also about making sure others understand you. This highlights the importance of good rhetoric.
  3. Having strong convictions can guide important decisions in life, like investing. Knowing when to be passionate and when to be calm is a valuable skill.

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.

Steampower, or Faërie for Today?

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 61 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Poetry Analysis Authors Genres
  1. The steam engine in the 1800s was a major turning point in technology and industry. It paved the way for engineering careers and the growth of modern corporations.
  2. There's a temptation to explore fantasy worlds instead of focusing on practical history. Imagining magical places can be just as captivating as real advancements.
  3. Literature often discusses the magical and mundane aspects of life, revealing deeper meanings and connections. Books can blend reality with fantasy in fascinating ways.

Tortured Poets Department Faculty Picnic Gossip Circle

coldhealing • 255 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🎶 Music Pop Lyrics Poetry
  1. Taylor Swift is considered a poet due to the depth of her lyrics and writing style.
  2. Music has replaced poetry in modern times, but some heights of poetry are not always reached by music.
  3. Taylor Swift's lyrical poetry, while not on par with traditional poets like Emily Dickinson, resonates with average listeners and has evolved towards a more confident and raw style.

Sowing seeds, delving deep

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 938 implied HN points • 29 Oct 22
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Personal Growth Belonging Nature Community Building Poetry
  1. The author discusses the significance of deepening and discovering oneself during the dark winter months, drawing parallels to seeds growing underground.
  2. The author shares exciting news about being awarded the Roger Deakin Award for her upcoming book on motherhood and nature, highlighting the impact of maternal influence on belonging.
  3. The author presents opportunities for engaging in conversations around women's experiences in the second half of life through podcasts, memberships, and art, encouraging exploration and connection.