The hottest Storytelling Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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The Jade Racket

Soaring Twenties • 100 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
⚔ Fiction Literature Storytelling Drama Character development Narrative structure
  1. The main character, Caroline Jade, is smart and tough. She runs her own business in a dangerous world and knows how to protect herself.
  2. Conflict arises between Caroline and a rival gangster, Gino Salerno, leading to life-threatening situations. This showcases the risks involved in her operations.
  3. Caroline uses her connections and strategic thinking to navigate tricky situations. Ultimately, she seeks revenge and maintains her power in a chaotic environment.

Look Before You Leap

The Leap • 1738 implied HN points • 21 May 24
📚 Literature Writing Storytelling Psychology Communication Creativity
  1. Writing is a commitment to your readers. It's important to share your thoughts and connect with them, even if it feels like work sometimes.
  2. You shouldn't wait for the perfect moment to take risks. Embrace uncertainty and jump in, even if you feel scared or unsure.
  3. This newsletter will cover various topics and ideas. It's a space for exploration, so expect different subjects and personal insights.

When Writing Fantasy, Kill Your Darlings. Literally.

The Bottom Feeder • 703 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Fantasy Storytelling Character development
  1. Killing characters can add emotional weight to a story. When a character dies, it can make the readers feel more suspense and connect emotionally to the narrative.
  2. It's important to time character deaths well in a story. Too many deaths can numb the audience, while too few can make a story feel cluttered and lacking in stakes.
  3. Character deaths should serve a purpose. They should reflect the story's themes and impact the narrative, making the audience feel the reality of loss and its significance.

Hooked On A Feeling

Everything Is Amazing • 923 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Writing Storytelling Literature Creativity Emotions
  1. Good writing should make readers feel something. When words connect with the senses, it creates a deeper experience, almost making them live the moment.
  2. Felt writing is more impactful because it uses vivid details to evoke memories and emotions. This helps the reader connect with the story and remember it better.
  3. Mastering felt writing can help you communicate more effectively. It's about picking the right details to engage readers quickly and make every word count.
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A Tiny Juggler on a Big Screen

Animation Obsessive • 1614 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Animation Illustration Film Storytelling
  1. The story of 'The Juggler of Our Lady' explores feelings of hopelessness through a juggler who tries to find his place in the world. It's a tale that many can relate to, especially during tough times.
  2. R. O. Blechman created this work in a short time, drawing from his own experiences of feeling out of place. His unique style and personal connection helped make the story really special.
  3. The animation industry is facing challenges, like the recent wildfires in Los Angeles affecting many workers. It's important to help those in need during these difficult situations.

How to Get a Standing Ovation

Remarkable People • 319 implied HN points • 07 Aug 24
🚌 Education Public Speaking Communication Audience engagement Storytelling
  1. Make sure you have something meaningful to say in your speech. Think about what your audience needs to hear instead of just what you want to say.
  2. Know your audience really well. Conduct research or polls to understand what messages will resonate with them and tailor your speech accordingly.
  3. Engage your audience with personal stories and humor. This makes your speech more relatable and keeps people interested.

Motivation 101 by Guy Kawasaki

Remarkable People • 519 implied HN points • 17 Jul 24
🚌 Education Motivation Personal Growth Storytelling Life lessons Self-help
  1. What really matters is that you find something that motivates you, no matter what it is. It doesn't have to be a big or noble goal; any drive can lead to success.
  2. Your personal experiences can shape what inspires you. For example, wanting a better car can be just as motivating as wanting to change the world.
  3. Don't stress too much about the nature of your motivations. What's important is that you are motivated to work hard and strive for your goals.

A Course To Make Them Care

Everything Is Amazing • 760 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🚌 Education Storytelling Writing Non-fiction Content creation Communication
  1. Storytelling is more than just good writing; it's its own skill that can be developed. You can tell a great story even if the writing isn’t perfect.
  2. Storytelling isn’t just something for kids; it’s used in many professions, like therapy, business, and even law. It’s a tool that's relevant everywhere in life.
  3. You can learn to tell stories effectively; it’s not just a natural talent. Everyone has the potential to become a better storyteller with practice.

Why don’t you try typing?

Austin Kleon • 4056 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
📚 Literature Writing Storytelling Acting Creativity Books
  1. Writing can feel really difficult, and it often brings back memories of hard school assignments. It's important to remember that writing doesn't have to be a punishment; it can also be a creative and enjoyable process.
  2. Like the actors who approach their roles differently, we can also choose how we face challenges in our creative work. Sometimes, maybe we just need to jump in and start, rather than overthink it.
  3. Getting caught up in complicated planning can make us feel stuck. Instead, putting our fingers to the keyboard and just typing can help us make real progress on our ideas.

[OVERRIDE]

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 673 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
📚 Literature Narrative Creative Writing Literary Criticism Storytelling
  1. The work consists of ten chapters that form a serial metafiction written by the same author, despite featuring different fictional names. Each chapter contributes to a bigger story that explores themes of authorship and reality.
  2. The author emphasizes that from this point onward, nothing else can be considered a part of the 'Work'. Any future contributions under fictional names will either be collaborations or individual essays, and misunderstanding them as part of the 'Work' is a reader's concern.
  3. There is a call for deeper engagement from readers to understand the complexities of internet-specific fiction. The author aims to challenge readers' attention spans and encourages them to explore the narrative more richly.

necessary scenes

sweater weather • 6171 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
📚 Literature Storytelling Character development Novel Analysis
  1. Some argue that certain elements in art, like sex scenes, are unnecessary, but they actually serve to broaden the depth and concerns of the work.
  2. The concept of necessity in art is subjective and varies based on individual preferences and reading agendas.
  3. What may seem unnecessary in a piece of art to one person could be crucial to another's interpretation or understanding.

Start here

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 4992 implied HN points • 15 Jul 23
📚 Literature Storytelling Mythology Psychology Folklore
  1. Dr. Sharon Blackie focuses on reimagining women's stories, myths, and fairy tales, emphasizing the importance of these traditions in addressing modern cultural and environmental issues.
  2. The concept of enchantment, as defined by Dr. Sharon Blackie, involves a profound connection to the world, a sense of wonder, and engagement with creativity and nature, promoting a slow and ethical way of living.
  3. Dr. Sharon Blackie offers different engagement levels through free subscriptions, paid subscriptions with exclusive content on myth, fairy tales, and psychology, and an exclusive membership called The Hearth for deeper exploration and support.

A Slightly Altered Course

Story Club with George Saunders • 590 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Storytelling Authors Commentary
  1. It's important to keep political discussions separate from certain spaces. This helps maintain a positive and civil environment.
  2. Understanding different perspectives is crucial, especially when it comes to politics. People may see things differently, and being curious about those views can help us grow.
  3. Moving forward, the focus will be on storytelling and literature, while political topics will be discussed in other venues. This way, the creative space remains enjoyable for everyone.

This New Internet Thing, Chapter 27

Life Since the Baby Boom • 461 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Narrative Storytelling Publishing
  1. Reading stories in parts, or serials, is a fun and old tradition. It keeps people coming back for more every week.
  2. Working at big companies can feel familiar, but it often involves juggling different cultures and opinions, especially when many companies team up.
  3. People in tech often have strong opinions about new products, and convincing them can be tough, but it's important to stay confident and informed.

Dino Play

Soaring Twenties • 77 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Creative Writing Storytelling
  1. Dinosaurs spark a sense of wonder and playfulness in children. This reminds us how important it is to nurture that joy and imagination.
  2. Parents play a key role in children's beliefs about the world. The father reassures his son about dinosaurs, showing the importance of trust and fun in family interactions.
  3. Stories can transport us to different times and places, allowing us to relive simpler moments. It's great to take a step back and appreciate the playful side of life.

Masterpieces on the Cheap

Animation Obsessive • 7175 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Animation Creators Storytelling Industry
  1. Animation masterpieces can be created on limited budgets, showcasing that money doesn't guarantee a great film.
  2. Artistry, vision, and talent are key to creating successful animated projects, sometimes taking risks can lead to unique and impactful films.
  3. Japanese anime industry often achieves expressive movement with small budgets, emphasizing creativity over financial resources.

David Senra: Why Founders Rule The World

Danielle Newnham • 19 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24
🎙 Podcasts Business Education Entertainment Entrepreneurship Storytelling
  1. David Senra hosts a podcast that focuses on the lives and lessons of famous founders. Each episode dives into a biography and teaches valuable lessons from their journeys.
  2. David's childhood was tough, but he found inspiration in books. Those stories helped shape his dreams and aspirations.
  3. He believes that successful founders share traits like self-delusion and obsession, which help them pursue ambitious goals despite challenges.

Not Everyday Goes As Planned

Spilled Coffee • 80 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Personal Growth Life lessons Resilience Storytelling Mental health
  1. Not every day goes smoothly; sometimes things go wrong unexpectedly. It's normal to feel stressed when life throws challenges your way.
  2. Even tough situations can turn out for the best. What seems like a problem can lead to better outcomes later.
  3. Life is full of twists and turns. When facing obstacles, it's important to find new paths instead of getting discouraged.

Why Your Medium Articles Fail to Get Boosted | Interview with Walter Rhein

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 779 implied HN points • 06 May 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Content creation Online Platforms Storytelling
  1. Medium values original stories and human writing, making it a great platform for new writers.
  2. Getting Boosted can improve your article's reach, but you can still earn well without it.
  3. Writers need to stay positive and adapt since Boost nominations are based on human opinions and can change frequently.

Happy Sunday

Story Club with George Saunders • 59 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
📚 Literature Creative Writing Reading Storytelling Authors Literary Analysis
  1. The post features a mix of content including answers to questions and plans for future group activities. It's great to have something engaging and interactive to look forward to.
  2. The author apologizes for missing a previous post, showing accountability. It's nice to see someone taking responsibility and connecting with their audience.
  3. Content is mainly for paid subscribers, emphasizing a supportive community. Being part of a paid group can give access to exclusive insights and shared experiences.

Giving it all away

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 3215 implied HN points • 02 Sep 23
📚 Literature Books Writing Poetry Storytelling Novel
  1. Growing up in a working-class family, Dr. Sharon Blackie defied societal expectations to become a writer.
  2. Writing formula fiction wasn't for Dr. Blackie, who found her authentic voice in crafting scenes with compelling imagery.
  3. Through mentorship, Dr. Sharon Blackie learned the importance of the craft of writing, emphasizing the beauty of language and evoked images.

Do our stories matter?

Men Yell at Me • 1024 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
📚 Literature Essays Writing Memory Identity Storytelling
  1. Our personal stories and memories are really important. They help us remember who we are, especially when we feel lost.
  2. Writing can be a powerful way to express ourselves and connect with others. It gives us a voice in difficult times.
  3. Even when things feel hopeless, sharing our experiences through words can create hope and understanding among people.

Office Hours

Story Club with George Saunders • 92 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
📚 Literature Writing Fiction Creative Process Storytelling Literary Analysis
  1. It's important to notice areas in your writing that feel off or unsatisfying. These areas can guide you to make better changes and improve your story.
  2. Polishing your writing helps you see new possibilities. Once everything looks clean, you might realize something about the overall structure or flow that needs adjusting.
  3. Practicing writing through revision is key. Focus on small sections of your work and ask yourself how they can be improved, which can reveal new ideas for your storytelling.

Why We Can't Stand Up

The Reclamation Era • 99 implied HN points • 13 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Comedy Feminism Performing Arts Women empowerment Storytelling
  1. Women in comedy often struggle to take up space and feel confident on stage. They sometimes feel they need to apologize or shrink themselves, which can hold them back.
  2. It's important for women to embrace their voices and power. By doing this, they can inspire others and feel more connected to their true selves.
  3. Creating safe spaces for female performers leads to more honest and relatable entertainment. It's crucial for women to support each other in the industry and share their stories without fear.

Mike Leigh’s gloriously inefficient filmmaking process

Subtle Maneuvers • 2220 implied HN points • 13 Nov 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Film Creative Process Character development Improvisation Storytelling
  1. Mike Leigh's filmmaking process starts with no script or story idea, just actors talking to create characters.
  2. Leigh's method involves months of rehearsals where actors improvise to bring characters to life before scripting.
  3. Leigh's unique and time-consuming approach to filmmaking results in fully realized, human characters and unforgettable movies.

Another Boringly Obvious Observation

Chuck Palahniuk's Plot Spoiler • 2437 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
📚 Literature Writing Storytelling Experience Education
  1. Recall incidents like the Ross Steering Gear crisis can have broader impact on industries and supply chains.
  2. Combining personal experience with technical skills is crucial for writers to create meaningful work.
  3. According to one study, people tend to create their masterpiece around the age of thirty-one by combining formal education with life experiences.

My Story Structure Lesson At San Quentin

Technohumanism • 99 implied HN points • 08 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Incarceration Race Journalism Imagination Storytelling
  1. In discussing race, people often see others through the lens of their own freedom or lack thereof. This can lead to powerful and thought-provoking conversations.
  2. Powerful storytelling can evoke strong emotional reactions and provoke thoughts about the realities faced by different groups in society.
  3. Words have the ability to engage our imaginations and encourage us to think deeper about the experiences of others, especially those in difficult situations.

Have you hit "peak ENOUGH"?

The Shift With Sam Baker • 958 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture TV shows Women's issues Storytelling Society
  1. The Shift With Sam Baker newsletter and podcast explores moments in TV shows or movies that resonate with audiences due to their truthful impact, sparking strong emotional reactions from viewers.
  2. The post discusses a powerful monologue from the character Rose Aguineau in True Detective, highlighting the theme of self-acceptance and finding peace with one's past and present.
  3. There's a focus on the idea of reaching a point of 'having enough' in life, symbolizing a turning point where individuals may reassess their choices and seek a quieter, more meaningful existence.

How Ruthie Ended the War: Chapter Two

Colin Meloy's Machine Shop • 1002 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
📚 Literature Fiction Storytelling Novel Characters
  1. Chapter Two of 'How Ruthie Ended the War' reveals a soldier's story of being caught in a dangerous ice field while on a mission.
  2. The soldier recounts the harrowing experience of the ship battling ice, leading to chaos and fear among the crew.
  3. Ruthie, the central character, listens silently to the soldier's tale, adding an element of intrigue to the unfolding narrative.

Reclamation: The Fempire Strikes Back

The Reclamation Era • 79 implied HN points • 05 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Gender Issues Comedy Storytelling Performing Arts Women empowerment
  1. Women are speaking out about topics that are often seen as taboo, like relationships and aging. This honesty helps to break down barriers and opens up important conversations.
  2. Supporting female-led performances and productions is a way of resisting the suppression of women's voices. Events like 'Reclamation: The Fempire Strikes Back' celebrate women's stories through comedy and storytelling.
  3. The focus of these discussions is on real-life experiences, including motherhood and identity. Sharing personal stories allows women to connect and support each other in navigating life's challenges.

Taylor Sheridan's Extreme Productivity

SatPost by Trung Phan • 122 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Film Television Hollywood Storytelling Creativity
  1. Taylor Sheridan didn't become a successful writer until he was 40, showing that it's never too late to start a new career. His need to support his family pushed him to work hard and produce a lot of content quickly.
  2. He handles creative control differently than others in Hollywood, often working alone instead of in a writer's room. This unique approach allows him to stay true to his vision and produce shows and movies that resonate with people.
  3. Buying a massive ranch for $350 million increased his pressure to succeed even more. This financial burden motivated him to create new shows and push out his work at an extreme rate.

Bad Karmala

Fake Noûs • 117 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
⚔ Fiction Satire Political Storytelling Comedy Creative Writing
  1. The story is about a fictional election where Karmala Harris refuses to accept losing to Donald Trump. She believes the election results were manipulated and insists they should fight back.
  2. Despite evidence showing Trump performed better than before, Karmala argues that there must have been voter fraud because she can't believe so many people switched their votes away from her.
  3. The media and Karmala's supporters rally behind her claims, spreading her message of a stolen election, even though there's no solid proof provided.