The hottest Storytelling Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Art & Illustration Topics

Theft

Story Club with George Saunders • 49 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Storytelling
  1. A good work of art captures something deep and meaningful. It's about more than just the surface level; it resonates with our emotions and thoughts.
  2. Engaging with art is a collaborative experience. The audience plays a vital role in interpreting and connecting with the work.
  3. Effective storytelling includes exploring difficult themes. A story can tackle complex issues while still being relatable and thought-provoking.

Social Media is a Tapestry of Humanity

The Digital Anthropologist • 19 implied HN points • 28 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Storytelling
  1. Social media reflects the tapestry of humanity, showcasing both the good and bad aspects of human nature.
  2. Telling stories through words, art, and music is at the core of human culture, shaping our past, present, and future.
  3. As a species, we evolve by sharing experiences and stories, and social media provides a platform for weaving together the diverse narratives of human existence.

218: A Thanksgiving Story

Castalia • 79 implied HN points • 26 Nov 22
🎭️ Culture Storytelling
  1. Todd's story highlights the struggles many veterans face after returning home. They often deal with trauma, addiction, and difficulty adjusting to civilian life.
  2. During a visit, Todd expresses his feelings of pain and hopelessness, showing how deep his struggles run. Despite attempts to improve his life, he often feels overwhelmed and alone.
  3. The support system for veterans, like the friends at Ft. Endurance, plays a crucial role in their recovery. However, the challenges they face can make it hard for them to hold onto their progress.

The First Rider

Soaring Twenties • 108 implied HN points • 16 Feb 24
⚔ Fiction Storytelling
  1. The story revolves around a small tribe in Eastern Europe/Central Asia around 4000 BC speaking a Proto-Indo-European language.
  2. Hester's bonding with a duckling named Swepna showcases a heartwarming connection and her defiance to protect it from becoming a feast for a ceremony.
  3. Bergu's tale of taming the horse Ekwos illustrates courage, friendship with animals, and the importance of respecting nature and the creatures within it.

Horsin' Around

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 18 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Storytelling
  1. A unique furniture store in Brooklyn is packed with all kinds of antiques, including horses as furniture types. It's a quirky place that shows how obsessed the owner is with his collection.
  2. A comical robbery scene happens in the store where bandits in pantyhose steal a necklace. The whole thing plays out like a funny movie, with the robbers sneaking around furniture.
  3. Spending time with family reveals personal stories and lessons, such as learning about history from grandparents and the complexities of moral questions, like those involving J. Edgar Hoover.
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What Wicked Taught Me About B2B Sales

Investing 101 • 41 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Storytelling
  1. Storytelling can be really fun when we ask 'What if?' and explore different perspectives. This can give new life to old stories.
  2. Revisionist history helps us uncover deeper meanings in characters and events. It allows us to see things from different angles and appreciate complexity.
  3. Understanding different perspectives is key in business storytelling. It helps connect with your audience and shape how they see your brand or idea.

Five ways I sharpen my writing

A Bit Gamey • 47 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
📚 Literature Storytelling
  1. Always know your purpose when writing. It helps you stay focused and get your message across clearly.
  2. Use a friendly and personal tone in your writing. It makes people connect with you and enjoy what you share.
  3. Keep your writing concise by using strong verbs and cutting out unnecessary words. This makes your points clearer and more powerful.

The Dream Stream

Orbis Tertius • 143 implied HN points • 21 Aug 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Storytelling
  1. The anticipation of a fishing trip can be filled with energy, but the actual experience may not always meet expectations.
  2. The act of fishing can evoke deep emotions and memories, whether shared with family or experienced alone.
  3. Teaching someone else to fish can bring a sense of humility and gratitude for the patience and guidance received from mentors.

Story Voyager is taking a break

storyvoyager • 11 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
📚 Literature Storytelling
  1. The author is taking a break from the newsletter to prepare their first book for publishing. They need to focus on getting it done without distraction.
  2. The main goal of the newsletter was to serialize a novel called 'There Is Hope,' which is now complete. The book will be published soon, with some exclusive content for print readers.
  3. The author appreciates their readers' support and promises exciting updates when they return in September. Thank yous and a special gift for paid subscribers will be included.

Inspiration potluck

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 12 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Storytelling
  1. People can accomplish amazing feats, like climbing all 100 peaks in a summer while biking between them. It shows that with determination, anyone can do extraordinary things.
  2. When planning your own adventure, having clear and original parameters can help. Talking to others can inspire new ideas and approaches.
  3. It's important to speak out about tough experiences, even in places you're connected to. Sharing stories can help bring attention to issues and inspire others to be brave.

Second String

Soaring Twenties • 30 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
📚 Literature Storytelling
  1. The story explores complex relationships where loyalty and love are questioned. Characters are caught between their partners and secret affairs.
  2. Betrayal leads to dramatic consequences, revealing the emotional turmoil faced by those involved. It showcases how secrets can unravel lives.
  3. The ending suggests a cycle of hurt and anger, emphasizing the impact of choices in relationships. It leaves readers reflecting on love's complexities.

The Legend of the Extraordinary Boots

Once Upon A News • 19 implied HN points • 04 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Storytelling
  1. The story highlights the impact of possessing something extraordinary like Maxwell's enchanted boots.
  2. The enchanted boots became a symbol of prestige and aspiration for many in the land.
  3. Maxwell's legacy with the magical boots teaches the importance of determination and hard work.

The Magic Mind Stone

Once Upon A News • 19 implied HN points • 18 Apr 23
⚔ Fiction Storytelling
  1. Elara wished to walk again and live without problems, and hoped for the magic mind stone to make it happen.
  2. Despite challenges, the inventor and helpers worked to make the magic mind stone safer after facing opposition.
  3. The story emphasizes the importance of being careful and responsible when pursuing dreams, like creating the magic mind stone.

Stories of Sand, Cities of Salt

Critic at Large • 19 implied HN points • 26 Jul 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Storytelling
  1. Artists like Kiluanji Kia Henda explore the notion of cities emerging in unlikely environments, such as deserts, and how these structures can impact society and culture.
  2. The concept of 'Dubaization' refers to the influence of extravagant city development projects, like those in Dubai, on architecture and urban planning in other regions, prompting discussions on the authenticity and value of such endeavors.
  3. The novel 'Cities of Salt' by Abdulrahman Munif delves into the consequences of rapid urbanization driven by oil exploitation, highlighting the societal tensions and transformations that accompany the development of 'cities of salt.'

Crise de foie

Splattern • 19 implied HN points • 30 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Storytelling
  1. Celebrating Tally's birthday included a delicious and rich dinner, making it easy to break food rules. The dinner featured fresh ingredients, and the indulgence left the writer feeling unwell afterward.
  2. Kayla, Tally's mom, expressed her love and care, making the writer feel welcomed and supported. Her kindness and family connection provided emotional comfort.
  3. During the sauna conversations, Tally and Orion discussed the idea of desire and escaping from pain. They recognized that facing and feeling their pain is important for personal growth.

Office Hours

Story Club with George Saunders • 79 implied HN points • 04 Jan 24
📚 Literature Storytelling
  1. The readers expect a cohesive story to lead them in a certain direction, answering questions as they arise.
  2. In writing with multiple points of view, the author should feel the book's need for additional voices rather than adding characters for the sake of it.
  3. One approach is to give each character enough backstory to make the current moment make sense, without unnecessary elaboration.

Office Hours

Story Club with George Saunders • 69 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
📚 Literature Storytelling
  1. It is possible to over-revise your writing, which can lead to loss of freshness and spontaneity. It's important to find a balance between revising too much and too little.
  2. Taking your writing too far in revisions can help you understand your prose better. Push past the point of reason to see the impact of over-revising, then dial back and restore the essence.
  3. Maintaining freshness in subsequent drafts improves with time and practice. Developing the ability to see your work with fresh eyes more quickly is a skill that can be honed over time.

Bobbsey Twins

Castalia • 59 implied HN points • 16 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Storytelling
  1. Documentary work often uncovers unexpected stories that don't fit into the main narrative. These side experiences can leave lasting impressions and enrich the overall understanding of the subject.
  2. The lives of the physicist's family members reflect contrasting lifestyles, showing both simplicity and complexity in relationships. Even with a famous father, personal struggles shaped their identities significantly.
  3. Community and connection can provide a sense of belonging, illustrated by the lively porch gatherings. The joy and camaraderie in these moments highlight the importance of social interactions in life.

My Christmas story

The ZIPster • 26 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Storytelling
  1. The Christmas season creates a special atmosphere of warmth and comfort, making it a perfect time for reflection and writing. There’s a soothing silence that feels familiar and inviting as the days lead up to the holiday.
  2. Food plays a big role in Christmas preparations, with favorite treats like nuts, chocolates, and festive cakes being essential. Shopping for special items at the market adds to the excitement and tradition of the season.
  3. Watching Christmas television shows and movies is a cherished activity, even if the options aren't always great. The anticipation of classic comedies and family favorites makes this time of year feel magical.

Five Times I Sided with the Bad Guys in Movies

I Might Be Wrong • 8 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Storytelling
  1. Sometimes, the characters we see as villains might actually be in the right, and we need to rethink who we cheer for in stories.
  2. Breaking contracts or laws can have serious consequences, and it's important to consider the implications of those actions in both fiction and real life.
  3. Characters that seem like 'bad guys' might represent qualities like strength or assertiveness, which can challenge traditional views about morality.

Mastering the Alchemy of AI Storytelling

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 2 implied HN points • 21 Nov 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Storytelling
  1. A six-week hands-on seminar teaches you how to create polished AI short films, giving practical tools like prompts, camera grammar, sound design, and a finished project to release.
  2. The program pairs technical training with ethics, philosophy, and somatic practices so creators learn to use AI responsibly, covering appropriation, attribution, and the social impact of viral media.
  3. It runs Jan 11–Feb 15, 2026 with live sessions and recordings, offers tuition tiers (including a $500 early-bird rate and a $1500 advanced option with one-on-one coaching), and provides scholarships and clear IP terms.

batwrite is write now !! link within

Both Are True • 6 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
📚 Literature Storytelling
  1. The phrase 'batwrite is write now' plays with words in a fun way. It's a catchy phrase that combines humor and creativity.
  2. This post seems to be focused on being entertaining for its audience. It emphasizes engaging writing and playful language.
  3. The content is meant specifically for paid subscribers, suggesting a special connection with the audience. It creates a sense of exclusivity and value.

Just Learning Now

Nice Try • 139 implied HN points • 16 Jan 21
📚 Literature Storytelling
  1. Embrace creativity, even when faced with challenges. It's important to find joy in expressing yourself and not just in conforming to expectations.
  2. Life can be unpredictable, and everyone has their own unique story. Listen to others as they might have valuable lessons and experiences to share.
  3. Teaching can be a rewarding experience. It allows you to share knowledge while continuously learning from your students and their diverse backgrounds.

Big as the what? Big as the Super Bowl: Marketing, Storytelling &...

The Social Juice • 17 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
💼 Business Storytelling
  1. Good brand storytelling is not just about being creative; it's important to have a clear strategy. A story that resonates can build trust and engage your audience.
  2. You should always focus on solving a problem your audience has when telling your brand story. This helps make the story relevant and valuable to them.
  3. When a brand fails at storytelling, it loses customer loyalty and trust. But if a business fails in its brand storytelling, it risks shutting down completely.

myths and truth

Midnight Musings • 39 implied HN points • 31 Oct 22
📚 Literature Storytelling
  1. Myths and stories help us understand our own experiences better. They give us examples to relate to and can change how we see our challenges.
  2. Greatness often comes with challenges and vulnerabilities. Even heroes like Balder and Achilles had their downfalls because of their unique flaws or circumstances.
  3. The way we interpret our achievements matters. Like the dog who wanted to be a dragon, our view of success can affect our happiness. It's important to find value in our unique journey.

Book Release — Cyan Waters: A Story From the Poolrooms

antoniomelonio • 17 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
⚔ Fiction Storytelling
  1. The story follows Vuk Petrović, who finds himself in a strange, dream-like world after a corporate collapse. He faces eerie and beautiful settings that challenge his sense of reality.
  2. Vuk experiences a blend of violence and tranquility, showcasing a dark exploration of existential horror. His journey raises questions about memory, humanity, and the impact of corporate greed.
  3. The narrative blurs the lines between victim and caretaker, illustrating how life can be both cruel and serene. It's a tale about accepting one's fate amid chaos and confusion.

My North Thames Gas saga

Eclecticism: Reflections on literature, writing and life • 6 implied HN points • 06 Jul 25
📚 Literature Storytelling
  1. Bureaucracy can be really frustrating, especially when dealing with customer service. It often feels like you're stuck in a complicated system.
  2. Even a bad experience from the past, like with a gas company, can leave lasting anxiety. It shows how past issues can affect future interactions.
  3. It's important to reflect on these experiences to understand how they shape our feelings and responses now. Sharing stories can help us connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

Book Release — Echoes of Tyranny: Freedom Lost

antoniomelonio • 17 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
📚 Literature Storytelling
  1. The book 'Echoes of Tyranny: Freedom Lost' is a sequel that explores the aftermath of a revolution, showing how peace can quickly turn into chaos.
  2. The story features characters grappling with a dying land and a new threat, as an ambitious leader emerges promising order but brings old wounds back to life.
  3. It raises deep questions about power, rebellion, and human nature, highlighting how the line between freedom and oppression can blur.

The Ninety-Seventh Voyage

Orbis Tertius • 57 implied HN points • 02 Oct 23
⚔ Fiction Storytelling
  1. The trail in the story is described as unpredictable and constantly changing, making each voyage unique.
  2. The narrator pays close attention to details in nature and uses markers to navigate the trail.
  3. Respecting the environment, being prepared, and staying aware of time are essential when venturing into unknown places.

Cathedral: Year Forty-Six

Castles in the Sky • 52 implied HN points • 10 Nov 23
⚔ Fiction Storytelling
  1. The pilgrims on the Ark journeyed towards their promised land of Proxima Centauri-XR-4, embracing life as their religion.
  2. The importance of the observation deck on the Ark went beyond engineering; it symbolized the connection of the passengers to their purpose.
  3. Through personal stories and shared moments, relationships and perspectives evolved on the Ark, shaping individuals' sense of purpose and duty.

AI Storytelling and Social Change

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 1 implied HN point • 11 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Storytelling
  1. A new six-week workshop will teach practical AI storytelling skills, especially how to produce short-form, AI-generated videos about current issues.
  2. AI is already causing big societal shifts but can be harnessed as a powerful tool to address the meta-crisis and to create critical, politically engaged media.
  3. There’s a live discussion tomorrow at 2 pm EST where people can ask questions, and the program offers a limited discount plus partial or full scholarships for those in need.

The Infinite Almanac of Writing Wisdom

Tigerfeathers! • 17 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
📚 Literature Storytelling
  1. Collect and organize writing tips and techniques to create a valuable resource. This helps writers find inspiration in one easy place.
  2. Writing is an experimental process where you learn by doing. It’s okay to have rough drafts as they can lead to better ideas during revisions.
  3. Engage your audience by being specific and personal in your writing. Sharing your own experiences makes your work relatable and engaging.

Heat is the venerable enemy. Hope is what endures.

storyvoyager • 6 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
📚 Literature Storytelling
  1. The world is facing serious climate challenges, leading to a post-apocalyptic environment where resources are scarce. This situation highlights the effects of human greed and environmental change.
  2. There are stories of survival and hope, such as the Museum of Life which preserves human memories and experiences of those who lived through these tough times. This showcases the resilience of people and their stories.
  3. The narrative includes themes of resistance and bravery, as characters take risks to protect the environment and each other. These tales inspire a sense of connection and motivate action towards a better future.