The hottest Short Stories Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Literature Topics

Progress Report for Paid Subscribers #2

Trantor Publishing • 39 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Fiction Short Stories Feedback
  1. Author has been busy in January with multiple chapters published and an exclusive short story for paying subscribers.
  2. Author is planning a raffle for paying subscribers to win signed paperback copies of their book as a thank you gesture.
  3. Author is seeking input from subscribers on potentially re-working the ending of one of their works and is open to suggestions for future content.

Sexcapade

Castalia • 239 implied HN points • 04 Jul 22
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Contemporary Narrative Character Study
  1. Rachel and Jerianne have a complicated friendship where Jerianne often leads Rachel into more adventurous and risky situations. Rachel feels more cautious and less exciting when she is with Jerianne.
  2. Jerianne's life seems conventional on the outside, but she struggles with personal issues and often relies on Rachel for support. She also has a complicated relationship with a younger man named Anthony, which adds drama to her life.
  3. Rachel starts to question the value of her friendship with Jerianne. As she spends more time alone, she begins to focus on her own needs and entertains thoughts of Anthony, showing a shift in her priorities and desires.

For And Against The Short Story

Castalia • 159 implied HN points • 08 Dec 22
📚 Literature Short Stories Essays Literary theory Creative Writing
  1. Short stories can show the writer's unique style and ideas without the long structure of a novel. They're like a quick look into a writer's mind and creativity.
  2. They focus on a single idea or moment, making them direct and impactful. This clarity helps convey a strong message or theme without distractions.
  3. Reading short stories can sometimes feel light or simple, but they often leave a lasting impression. They can provide a quick escape or thought-provoking experience, similar to enjoying a snack rather than a full meal.

Genre Grapevine for July 30, 2023

Genre Grapevine • 58 implied HN points • 30 Jul 23
📚 Literature Science fiction Fantasy Horror Short Stories Authors
  1. Twitter has undergone drastic changes under Elon Musk's leadership, impacting various user communities.
  2. Alternative social media platforms like Mastodon and Bluesky are gaining traction amid Twitter's changes.
  3. The science fiction and fantasy community is engaging in important conversations around AI, copyright, and representation in genre awards.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Afterlife

Castalia • 199 implied HN points • 22 Jul 22
📚 Literature Short Stories Fiction Narrative Character development Artistic expression
  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.

Tri-State Turmoil

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 9 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
📚 Literature Book Reviews Contemporary Fiction Cultural critique Author interviews Short Stories
  1. Michael Goodwin Hilton's short stories explore complex human relationships, often highlighting their emotional struggles in everyday life. The writing is both engaging and nuanced, making it a refreshing read.
  2. Tomiwa Owolade's book discusses race in the UK, arguing against American influences and emphasizing the unique context of Britain's racial dynamics. He believes in understanding the complexities of different racial identities and promoting an integrated society.
  3. Stuart M. Ross's novel dives into the chaotic life of Ty Rossberg, whose relationship issues lead him on a wild journey filled with absurdity and humor. The focus is on his personal struggles and the contrast with his partner's success.

Pool Boy

Castalia • 79 implied HN points • 21 Apr 23
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Creative Writing Contemporary Urban
  1. The story explores complicated relationships among young adults. It shows how confusion and manipulation can exist in love and friendship.
  2. Stevie, one of the characters, has a unique perspective on life and doesn't care what others think. His laid-back attitude helps him navigate adult situations without losing himself.
  3. Arianna, another character, struggles with her desires and expectations in relationships, showcasing how people's wants can lead to disappointment and a sense of emptiness.

A Winter’s Tangerine

Critic at Large • 19 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
📚 Literature Poetry Short Stories Visual art Photography Artistic expression
  1. Winter Tangerine was a short-lived magazine created by a young African poet to amplify unheard voices through poetry, short stories, and visual art.
  2. The magazine showcased the evolution of poems through a section called 'Shedding Skins' and featured exceptional visual art alongside literary works.
  3. Winter Tangerine provided a platform for emerging writers and artists, particularly from marginalized communities, offering imaginative language and unique perspectives.

Initiation: Mindbinding

storyvoyager • 6 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
⚔ Fiction Sci-fi Short Stories
  1. Amiie goes through a special ritual called mindbinding, which is important in her culture. This ceremony helps young women control their emotions as they come of age.
  2. Amiie's growth and struggles are shown through her connection with whales and her desire to create a virtual whale habitat. It reflects her journey to find her own identity and place in the world.
  3. The story highlights the pressure from family and society on women to conform to certain roles and expectations. Amiie faces challenges as she tries to navigate her own path despite these pressures.

Daniel and Julieta

Castalia • 179 implied HN points • 24 Jun 22
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Relationships Mental health Personal Growth
  1. Daniel and Julieta met at a party, and their relationship slowly evolved from casual fun to a deeper, more complex connection. Daniel found himself intrigued by Julieta's struggles, even as he grappled with his own issues.
  2. As their relationship progressed, Daniel became more involved in caring for Julieta during her tough times, shifting from a carefree young man to someone who took on a more supportive role. Their dynamic changed, as they both revealed more of their struggles and vulnerabilities.
  3. Eventually, Daniel faced his own challenges and lost his job, which affected his mental state. Julieta became a source of stability for him, and they set ground rules to support each other, illustrating how their relationship had grown from a light bond to a deeper partnership.

Alice in Wonderland

Castalia • 139 implied HN points • 01 Oct 22
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Character Study Narrative structure Relationship Dynamics
  1. Partnerships can evolve from friendship; sometimes, deep familiarity lays the groundwork for romantic relationships. The connection can feel strong, like you’ve known each other your whole lives.
  2. Trust is essential in relationships, but it can be hard to maintain. Doubts and suspicions can lead someone to invade their partner's privacy, which can either confirm their fears or provide relief.
  3. Life can take unexpected turns, and sometimes people find themselves in situations that don’t align with their values. It’s important to recognize when it’s time to walk away and reclaim personal happiness.

Me Gustas Tu

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 18 Jun 23
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Narrative Character development Creative Writing
  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.

"In the Basement"

Story Club with George Saunders • 45 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
📚 Literature Short Stories
  1. The post discusses starting a discussion on the short story 'In the Basement' by Issac Babel. The pdf of the story was shared last week.
  2. To engage in further discussions and access the content mentioned, readers need to be paid subscribers of the platform.
  3. There is an option provided to subscribe for exclusive content access and to participate in ongoing discussions.

Reviews for June 2023

Record Crash • 39 implied HN points • 09 Jul 23
📚 Literature Fanfiction Reviews Novels Short Stories Fiction
  1. The reviews for June 2023 cover fics from various fandoms like Homestuck, Worm, and Harry Potter.
  2. Some fics had negative reviews due to lack of narrative, character development, or coherence in time travel plots.
  3. One recommended fic was a well-written original character fic in the Worm fandom with an interesting power and character development.

Gentlemen Prefer Bitches

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 06 Dec 22
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Character development Relationships Narrative Techniques
  1. Some men are attracted to women who seem strong and assertive, but this can lead to unhealthy relationships where they overlook their own needs.
  2. Friendship and support can help people recognize their worth and encourage them to make positive changes in their lives.
  3. Being honest and having clear expectations in relationships is important to prevent one person from feeling like a burden or a freeloader.

On Dostoevsky's Crocodile—Or Beginnings and Ends

Vremya • 239 implied HN points • 02 Jun 21
📚 Literature Literary Criticism Short Stories Russian literature Social Commentary
  1. Dostoevsky's story 'The Crocodile' isn't widely known but has some interesting themes. It features a civil servant who gets stuck inside a crocodile and has to adapt to his strange situation.
  2. The tale satirizes social reformers and the media, highlighting how people often don't understand real life while claiming to know what is best for others. The protagonist even dreams up grand ideals from within the crocodile.
  3. There's a playful humor throughout the story, showing Dostoevsky's lighter side. This contrasts with his more serious works and reflects the influence of other writers like Gogol, who also used humor and absurdity in storytelling.

The Constitution

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 13 Dec 23
⚔ Fiction Short Stories Creative Writing Literary Fiction Contemporary 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.

Day After

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 12 Jul 22
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Narrative Character Study Relationships
  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 Short Stories Fiction Narrative Contemporary Character development
  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 Fiction Short Stories Narrative Character development Writing Style
  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.

Back To Black

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 14 Nov 22
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Narrative Character Study Creative Writing
  1. Jared originally planned to be a doctor but changed his mind to pursue a career in music. He felt happier exploring his passion rather than sticking with a path that didn't excite him.
  2. Jared and Aline had a close bond, but their lives started to go in different directions as he focused on music and she concentrated on her academic success. This showed how relationships can change when people grow and follow their own paths.
  3. Despite trying hard in the music industry, Jared felt out of place and unsure about his future. He recognized the struggle and hunger needed to succeed, especially after observing the intense drive of others like Amy Winehouse.

What Have I Been Reading This Year?

Barbarian Grunge • 44 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
📚 Literature Graphic novels Video Games Novels Short Stories
  1. The author read and studied various types of content over the past year including graphic novels, video games, screenplays, novels, nonfiction, TV & film, short stories, poems, and for fun
  2. The author found inspiration from the works they read, learning from different genres and styles to enhance their writing
  3. Many of the works the author read were by well-known writers such as Frank Miller, Alan Moore, Stephen King, and Warren Ellis, among others

Weak Man

Castalia • 39 implied HN points • 17 Mar 23
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Personal essays Creative Writing Narrative
  1. The story explores the conflict between desire and reality in a man's relationships. He indulges in casual flings but ultimately feels empty and unsatisfied.
  2. Desi, the woman he becomes involved with, challenges his views on love and intimacy. She wants deeper connections and lives without limits, which contrasts his more superficial experiences.
  3. The protagonist struggles with his own weakness and cowardice. His inability to fully engage with Desi and his past choices lead to a sense of isolation and self-awareness.

The Getting To Know You Phase

Castalia • 39 implied HN points • 26 Feb 23
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Relationships Narrative Character development
  1. Eric struggles with being single after a series of relationships, feeling lonely and stuck in a routine. He finds excitement in dating again but worries about his future.
  2. His relationship with Elizabeth starts strong, filled with charm and deep conversations, but as they get closer, they uncover difficult pasts that challenge their bond.
  3. The dynamic shifts when Elizabeth reveals her mental health struggles, which Eric tries to understand, but ultimately leads to their breakup and Eric facing the reality of being alone again.

New(ish) Books

Castalia • 39 implied HN points • 24 Feb 23
📚 Literature Book Reviews Short Stories Literary Analysis Author studies Cultural critique
  1. The 2022 O. Henry Prize Winners collection shows little innovation in short story writing, mainly leaning towards gritty realism or magical realism, with some disappointments in quality.
  2. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s short story ‘Zikora’ stands out for its honest depiction of childbirth from a woman's perspective, showcasing deep emotional truths.
  3. Isaac Butler's book 'The Method' explores how acting techniques influence cultural identity, suggesting that the shift towards naturalism in acting reflects broader societal changes in the 20th century.

"A Thousand Reflections of My Own Hands in a Dark Mirror"

Apposition • 19 implied HN points • 01 Apr 23
📚 Literature Short Stories Feminism Character development Cultural Identity Satire
  1. Katherine Mansfield's stories focus on capturing moods and character depths rather than plot
  2. Mansfield's stories in 'In a German Pension' depict women longing for security despite facing disillusionment with men
  3. The satirical tone and complex characters in Mansfield's stories reveal subtle hints of psychic instability and a preference for implication over action

Weirdo Watch

Castalia • 39 implied HN points • 12 Feb 23
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Narrative Creative Writing Contemporary
  1. Steven, the main character, struggles with feelings of inadequacy and loneliness after a difficult breakup, showing how even seemingly successful people can face deep emotional challenges.
  2. His friends try to support him by taking turns spending time with him, but he feels more like a charity case, which complicates their interactions and deepens his sense of isolation.
  3. Despite his struggles, Steven finds fleeting moments of joy and connection through music, highlighting how something as simple as a song can evoke strong emotions and feelings of value.

38

Castalia • 39 implied HN points • 27 Jan 23
📚 Literature Short Stories Narrative Fiction Character Study Literary Analysis
  1. Friendships often have a mix of personal connection and mutual benefits. Andrea and Sasha support each other in navigating social and career challenges.
  2. People can go through different phases in life, like career successes or personal struggles, affecting their relationships. Sasha's journey shows the ups and downs of finding her identity.
  3. Life can take surprising turns, like starting a family when least expected. Sasha's decision to have a baby changes her life path and relationships.

An Actor Prepares

Castalia • 39 implied HN points • 28 Dec 22
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Drama Narrative Character development
  1. The main character finds joy in observing people on the subway, using it as a way to escape the chaos of city life. He enjoys mimicking others and feels free while doing it.
  2. The character's interactions with his roommates show a mix of support and tension as they navigate their artistic aspirations and daily lives. Their relationships become complicated with secrets and misunderstandings.
  3. As the character prepares for a significant acting role, he undergoes a transformation that blurs the lines between his real self and his on-stage persona, leading to a new sense of identity.

How to write a good short story

The Leftovers • 79 implied HN points • 26 Aug 21
📚 Literature Writing Short Stories
  1. Be cautious of free writing advice, as it may not always be reliable due to the competitiveness in the writing community.
  2. The author shares eleven commandments for writing a good short story, which can be valuable guidelines for aspiring writers.
  3. Consider subscribing to The Leftovers for more insightful writing advice and access to full post archives.

Aloe Vera

As Ever • 2 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Essays Short Stories Narrative Romance
  1. Relationships can be confusing and sometimes feel like they're built on almosts. People often hesitate to fully engage, missing out on important connections.
  2. Intimacy can be awkward, especially when trying to get closer to someone you care about. Little moments, like applying sunscreen, can lead to deeper connections.
  3. Silence in a relationship can either bring people closer together or create a barrier. It's important to talk about the past and be open about feelings for a healthier bond.