The hottest Symbolism Substack posts right now

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A Multiplicity of George Washingtons

Looking Through the Past • 178 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
💾 History American history Cultural impact Symbolism
  1. George Washington inspired a lot of merchandise right after his inauguration and even more after his death, showing how much people admired him. Many products with his image were sold as symbols of respect and inspiration.
  2. Washington's fame led to international production of memorabilia, with items created in countries like France and Germany. This shows that people beyond America were keen to celebrate his legacy.
  3. Over time, the many different images of Washington led to him becoming more of a symbol rather than a real person. While this helped unite Americans around shared values, it also made people lose sight of who he really was.

Death and Life

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 48 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
📚 Literature Poetry Linguistics Philosophy Narrative Symbolism
  1. Death is a common theme in our language, showing up in many phrases and everyday conversations. This reflects how deeply the idea of death influences our thoughts and expressions.
  2. Words related to life, such as 'vital' and 'vivacious,' are also frequently used in discussions to convey a sense of energy and positivity. These words connect to our experiences and perceptions of being alive.
  3. Both death and life are rich topics in literature, often explored through powerful quotes and themes. They reveal our struggles and feelings about existence, making them relatable and poignant.

An 800 year prayer book that's decorated with puns

weird medieval guys • 1926 implied HN points • 04 Jul 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Symbolism
  1. Medieval marginal drawings on manuscripts often hold varying and fascinating interpretations, with many theories but no definitive explanation available.
  2. The strange and bizarre art in medieval manuscripts may not have one simple answer, but focusing on individual cultures and artworks can provide insights.
  3. The margin illustrations in medieval manuscripts had diverse purposes, from adding commentary to emphasizing text themes, reflecting the evolving trends in manuscript production.
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Some Thoughts on the Meaning Behind the Characters in the Brave New World

Through A Glass Darkly • 845 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
📚 Literature Character analysis Symbolism Critique Historical context
  1. The characters in Brave New World represent extremes of societal expectations and moral reflections.
  2. Aldous Huxley uses Shakespeare's works to mock the failed American experiment for a better world.
  3. The story tackles themes of free will, conditioning, and the struggle against oppressive societal structures.

Stop making your values generic and boring

Jeff Giesea • 359 implied HN points • 13 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Values Identity Symbolism Meaning
  1. Make your values unique and memorable, instead of using boring generic terms. For example, use something like 'Hershey’s Kiss' instead of just 'love and kindness.'
  2. Using specific images or symbols can help you remember your values better. It makes them more personal and meaningful in your daily life.
  3. Regularly revisit and update your values. As life changes, your values might need to change too, so it's good to check in on them from time to time.

Trying To Make Sense Of The Venus Figurines?

Grey Goose Chronicles • 805 implied HN points • 02 Apr 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Archaeology Symbolism Interpretation Religion Feminism
  1. The interpretation of Venus figurines has evolved over time with theories ranging from race and primitivism to goddess worship and fertility magic.
  2. Scholars have debated whether the figurines are realistic representations of Palaeolithic people or symbolic artifacts with functions related to protection, fertility, or ancestoral worship.
  3. Recent studies have explored the possibility of the figurines being dressed, connected to clothing, and even representing maternal figures based on archaeological evidence.

Too like the lightning, which doth cease to be

The Common Reader • 531 implied HN points • 21 Feb 24
📚 Literature Analysis Shakespeare Symbolism Interpretation
  1. Shakespeare's play Romeo and Juliet heavily utilizes the motif of light and dark, with light symbolizing various aspects like love, hope, and the passage of time.
  2. Light imagery in Romeo and Juliet is not always positive, as it also signifies challenges and obstacles faced by the lovers.
  3. Paid subscribers can access deeper analysis, such as understanding the tragic foreshadowing in Juliet's speeches and the profound line 'Too like the lightning, which doth cease to be'.

Tetris Sequence

Opaque Hourglass • 359 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23
📚 Literature Poetry Prose Imagery Themes Symbolism
  1. Life can be compared to Tetris and Jenga, with the first half as Tetris and the second as Jenga, emphasizing different stages.
  2. The text offers deep, poetic imagery related to Tetris, blending themes of nostalgia, surrealism, and existential reflection.
  3. By reflecting on the falling objects in Tetris, the text explores themes of acceptance, interconnectedness, and the inevitability of change and endings.

Morgane Billuart: Virtuality and Aesthetics, An Evening in the Void Club

Do Not Research • 239 implied HN points • 02 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Aesthetics Imagination Symbolism Digital Spaces
  1. In virtual spaces, the absence of detailed information can enhance creativity and imagination.
  2. Digital platforms challenge the concept of realism and likeness in representations, prioritizing subjective interpretation.
  3. Virtual environments offer individuals the opportunity to craft and curate their own narratives, leading to a shift in the experience of existence.

Beyond the Sun,

Seven Senses • 419 implied HN points • 16 Aug 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Astrology Meditation Spirituality Symbolism Personal Growth
  1. Astrology is more than just your Sun sign. It includes your Moon and Ascendant signs, each showing different parts of your personality.
  2. Everyone has a unique 'natal chart' that captures the positions of planets at the time of their birth. This chart can reveal insights about one's character and life path.
  3. Custom astrology cards are available for paid subscribers, offering a personalized look at your Sun, Moon, and Ascendant signs based on your birth info.

O-Day - Circle of life

Remote View • 255 implied HN points • 18 Feb 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Philosophy Symbolism Mystery Religious Studies
  1. The concept of the Circle of Life encompasses the beginning and end connecting in a continuous cycle of life and death.
  2. Seeking truth and sharing knowledge is emphasized in ancient African Bauherren Masonic principles.
  3. The symbolism of the tilted 'O' on 10 Downing Street represents concepts like cosmic organization, divine word, force, capacity, and power.

Why Masques And Princes Are Red

Outlandish Claims • 19 implied HN points • 02 Jul 24
📚 Literature Poetry Authors Interpretation Structure Symbolism
  1. Writers like Shakespeare and Poe had unique approaches to crafting their work, whether through adapting plots or utilizing structured methods like Poe's philosophy in writing.
  2. In 'The Tempest,' Prospero's play within the play reflects a self-aware narrative, hinting at the consequences of his actions and unintentional summoning of death.
  3. The number 108 holds significance in Poe's 'The Raven,' aligning with religious symbolism and mirroring the poem's structure, showcasing a mathematical poetic form derived in a deeper connection to spiritual themes.

Creating love stories from metal. And melting them down when they end.

Men Yell at Me • 259 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Jewelry Design Craftsmanship Symbolism
  1. Creating personalized story rings with unique designs like mountains or bird feathers can be a powerful way to symbolize love and connection.
  2. Repurposing wedding rings after a divorce by melting them down can be a cathartic and transformative process, helping individuals let go of emotional baggage and begin a new chapter.
  3. Jewelry holds deep connections to personal stories and histories, making it more than just a material possession - it can represent relationships, memories, and values.

The most sophisticated horny schoolboy in art history’s catalogue

quite useless • 157 implied HN points • 17 Feb 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Art history Footwear Symbolism Literature
  1. The post discusses a catalogue of Aubrey Beardsley's work and focuses on the intricate details of shoes and feet in his art.
  2. The analysis explores the symbolism and ambiguity of empty shoes in Beardsley's art, connecting them to themes of conquest and femininity.
  3. Artistic choices like the depiction of shoes and feet in Beardsley's work point to deeper themes of sexuality and power within his art.

O-Day - NOON

Remote View • 157 implied HN points • 14 Feb 23
🔬 Science Physics Technology History Symbolism Archaeology
  1. There is a livestream event on Feb 14, 2023 at 21:00 CET, so review previous materials beforehand.
  2. The post includes a list of references discussing various topics like solitons, plasmoids, and symbols from different cultures.
  3. The content hints at connections between ancient symbols, cosmic powers, and historical artifacts, suggesting deeper meanings or connections.

The Ring Sword

Norse Mythology & Germanic Lore • 79 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
💾 History Symbolism
  1. Norse mythology stems from broader Germanic traditions and transitions over millennia, showing hints of even earlier origins.
  2. The mention of a ring in the hilt of a sword in ancient myths refers to a symbolic ring-sword design from the Migration Period, with rich symbolism and historical significance.
  3. Ring-swords were a trend in the Migration Period and were associated with aristocracy, symbolizing loyalty and courage through the ring attachment, often found in ancient burials and preserved in myths and artwork.

Alfred Muszynski: United Nations Spiritualism with Call of Duty Characteristics

Do Not Research • 119 implied HN points • 22 Sep 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Symbolism Painting Digital Art
  1. The painting explores the intersection of video game warfare, religion, and international politics, revealing emerging spiritualities and myths from gaming.
  2. The artist incorporates traditional painting techniques, installations, and digital art to create multimedia collages symbolizing the blurred visual identity of our culturally saturated society.
  3. There is a connection highlighted between war games and international politics through shared symbols and rituals, suggesting an intertwined relationship between the two fields.

The Shades of the Gothic Sublime

To Asra • 117 implied HN points • 17 Apr 23
📚 Literature Poetry Color Theory Death Symbolism
  1. Both Poe and Dickinson explored themes of death and loss in their poetry, embodying the Gothic genre.
  2. The poets paid particular attention to color in their poems, inspired by Burke's concept of the sublime evoked by certain colors.
  3. Colors like purple, black, and white were used by both poets to represent the sublime and mystery, reflecting the Gothic tradition in their work.

Naji al-Ali, Handala & Palestine

Black Lodges • 78 implied HN points • 13 Oct 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Palestine Revolution Journalism Symbolism
  1. Cartoons and related arts play a significant role in public protests by conveying messages quickly and clearly.
  2. Naji Al-Ali's cartoons were powerful political messages addressing the suffering of Palestinian people and criticizing Arab regimes.
  3. Al-Ali's life experiences, from being a refugee to facing censorship, greatly influenced his work and commitment to the Palestinian cause.

Create Your Unique Symbol (& 6 more updates!)

Meaning-Making • 78 implied HN points • 10 Apr 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Workshops Courses Self-assessment Symbolism
  1. Attend a workshop to craft your unique symbol, diving into your life story and cherished memories to create a personalized symbol.
  2. Explore creative self-assessment tools and quizzes to understand your strengths and weaknesses in the creative process.
  3. Consider the balance between personal life and business ventures, acknowledging the need for delegation and time management.

Unwritten Books #3

Mister Slang • 78 implied HN points • 27 Jul 23
📚 Literature Slang Animals Imagery Symbolism
  1. Language, especially slang, often uses animal imagery to enrich its vocabulary.
  2. Slang's menagerie of animal-related terms is deep and varied, encompassing both positive and negative connotations.
  3. Exploring animal imagery in slang can provide rich material for a book, drawing parallels to medieval Bestiaries and offering insights into cultural perceptions.

Elizabeth Bishop, an Eye

Autoscriptorium • 79 implied HN points • 11 Feb 23
📚 Literature Poetry Author Analysis Symbolism
  1. Elizabeth Bishop was a genius American poet known for her attention to detail and devotion to her craft.
  2. Bishop's work often reflects her outward focus and meticulous observation of the world around her, without delving much into personal details.
  3. In her poem 'The Fish,' Bishop showcases her rhythmic precision, imagery doubling, and symbolic references like the rainbow and the fish as a Christ symbol.

Still-Life (Talking)

Critic at Large • 59 implied HN points • 01 Jul 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Painting Philosophy Wealth Symbolism
  1. The painting 'Still Life With a Gilt Cup' by Willem Claesz Heda presents a subtle message warning against the dangers of wealth and excess.
  2. The details in the painting, such as the luxurious items on the table, symbolize the seductive nature of material goods and the transitory nature of life.
  3. The painting reflects a Calvinist-inspired moral reminder about the consequences of greed and the importance of not being consumed by worldly pleasures.

Tibor Dieters: Pol/der vriens

Do Not Research • 39 implied HN points • 30 Nov 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Digital Art Symbolism Cultural Commentary
  1. Many people are turning to the online world for answers due to an uncertain future, leading to the emergence of fringe political identities and online communities that can potentially escalate into radicalization.
  2. The Netherlands has witnessed a rise in fringe political identities, influenced by the mishandling of a global pandemic, which has highlighted the deep-rooted connection between online culture and the broader societal psyche.
  3. The project _pol/der (vriens)_ explores how conspiracy theories can become collective myths, shaping culture and politics by materializing online imagery into tangible representations.

Can Science Fiction Fill the Religious Void?

The Bigger Picture • 159 implied HN points • 03 Feb 22
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Traditions Symbolism
  1. Science fiction is a way for science to create its own mythos, filling the void left by religious narratives.
  2. Sci-fi concepts like metaverses and transhumanism relate back to ancient stories and traditions, offering a modern take on age-old themes.
  3. While sci-fi can provide imaginative and dreamlike spaces, it may not fully address the deeper sources of meaning that are essential for society.

A Typology of Hesitation

Autoscriptorium • 39 implied HN points • 08 Feb 23
📚 Literature Poetry Imagery Symbolism Mystery
  1. The author explores where unwritten poems may go, pondering on the loss of unrecorded creations.
  2. The text delves into different ways in which unwritten words and phrases may be stored or embodied, from cryptograms to follices.
  3. Each unwritten word may have a cosmic significance, tying into distant stars and unknown futures.

When Birds Mean Death

Bird History • 19 implied HN points • 31 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture History Folklore Beliefs Symbolism Nature
  1. Owls have historically been associated with death and fear by different cultures, with beliefs about their calls foretelling misfortune or demise.
  2. The arrival of European settlers in America brought over beliefs about birds, like owls, being evil omens, creating a sense of fear and superstition towards them.
  3. The intimidating and mysterious nature of owls, especially their nocturnal habits and unique physical characteristics, contribute to their reputation as ominous symbols.

On the Geography of Hell

Autoscriptorium • 19 implied HN points • 19 Feb 23
📚 Literature Epic Medieval Poetry Cosmology Symbolism
  1. Certain human principles like justice may seem inevitable, and there is a satisfaction in poetic justice.
  2. Dante's _Commedia_ intricately weaves together theology, history, and philosophy, creating a unique map of Hell and a spiritual journey.
  3. The medieval model of the universe, as seen in Dante's work, portrays Earth at the center surrounded by celestial spheres, demonstrating a cosmic order and divine influence.

Throwing Soup on a Painting Wasn't As Nonsensical as People Claim

The 21st Century Proletarian • 19 implied HN points • 02 Nov 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Climate Crisis Cultural critique Symbolism
  1. Throwing soup on a painting was a symbolic act meant to attract attention to climate activism.
  2. The action was more about performance art and disturbing the status quo than about causing real damage.
  3. The use of soup as a symbol conveyed a message of impending loss and the need for radical change to save what we have.

The Burial of Horse-Taming Hektor

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 1 HN point • 09 Apr 24
📚 Literature Epic Mythology Narrative Poetry Symbolism
  1. The Iliad's ending with the burial of Hektor, tamer of horses, hints at a larger story cycle and leaves room for interpretation and speculation about the narrative journey.
  2. The epic poem's reshuffling of mythical time and emphasis on Hektor's burial over other events symbolizes the end of an era and the beginning of a new one, highlighting moral complexities and divine-human interactions.
  3. Hektor's burial acts as a vessel for his fame and signifies the power of epic poetry to carry meaning and create something new, inviting readers to engage with the narrative beyond its physical end.

Quetzalcoatl

the rohn report • 19 implied HN points • 26 Apr 21
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Mythology Spiritual teachings Symbolism Mysticism
  1. Quetzalcoatl was not just a mythological hero in Aztec history, but a symbol of wisdom and cultural influence stretching throughout Mexico and Central America.
  2. The story of Quetzalcoatl has transcended time, with representations of the feathered serpent appearing across different Mesoamerican cultures and civilizations.
  3. The legacy of Quetzalcoatl has had a profound impact on individuals like Carlos Castaneda, whose encounters with the myth inspired deep introspection and philosophical exploration.

Symbolic Mereological Expression Of A New Theory On Language

Autodidact Obsessions • 1 HN point • 10 Feb 24
🔬 Science Language Logic Symbolism Philosophy
  1. Language exists in a quantum state of potential meanings until words are used, altering their semantic intentions.
  2. The application of words changes language from potential to actual, solidifying their meanings into rigid semantic intentions.
  3. A mereological framework views language as a whole composed of parts (words) and considers the relationships between these parts both before and after their usage.

The Big Red Button

Skunk Ledger • 1 HN point • 26 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Protests Game Theory Symbolism
  1. The event called Petrov Day was a big deal on campus, commemorating a Soviet officer's decision that prevented a potential nuclear war in 1983.
  2. During a parade for Petrov Day, protesters demanded the abolition of the holiday, arguing that it glorifies unsafe decisions and weak deterrence strategies.
  3. A mysterious man at the parade highlighted the significance of symbolic actions and collective beliefs in shaping behavior and understanding shared human values.

Michael Rider's solo exhibition “Even Muddy Rivers Flow”

Thomas’s Thoughts • 0 implied HN points • 04 Aug 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Contemporary Art Symbolism Emotions
  1. Michael Rider's exhibition 'Even Muddy Rivers Flow' explores murkiness and the unknown in contemporary art.
  2. The art pieces in the exhibition evoke curiosity and fear with their hues of blues and greens.
  3. Rider's work uses bursts of color and patterns to create an eerie ambiance, sparking emotions of discomfort and unease.