The hottest Writing Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Literature Topics

Sub Club Weekly Digest # 6

The Sub Club Newsletter • 118 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🚌 Education Writing Publishing Workshops Career Advice
  1. There is a new column called 'Jobs for Writers' for finding jobs in the writing industry. It's a great way to get your foot in the door and gain experience.
  2. The newsletter features some cool competitions where people can win money or subscriptions for sharing their writing stories or job listings. It's a fun way to get involved!
  3. They are offering workshops and events for writers to come together and submit their work while getting support and guidance. It's a good chance to learn and improve your writing skills.

Meta: 5,000

lcamtuf’s thing • 8366 implied HN points • 27 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Programming Algorithms Mathematics Writing
  1. Reaching 5,000 subscribers is a big deal for a project that went against the usual trends. It's great to see growth, even if it seems small compared to others.
  2. Writing a newsletter is unique because you don't get much direct feedback from readers. It's interesting to see who signs up or leaves but hard to know what they really think.
  3. Three articles worth revisiting cover complex topics: discrete Fourier transforms, fractals, and core concepts in electronic circuits. They offer in-depth discussions that are easy to understand, even for beginners.

14 Pitch Calls from Paying Publications

The Sub Club Newsletter • 257 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
📚 Literature Writing Essays Publishing Stories Personal
  1. There are 14 pitch opportunities from various paying publications this week. Writers can find specific calls for stories in areas like lifestyle, food, and niche topics.
  2. When pitching personal stories, it's helpful to start with a specific moment that highlights larger themes. This gives editors a better sense of your writing style and story arc.
  3. Sharing your journey or unique experiences can lead to deeper connections in your writing. Make sure to convey how situations change over time in your pitches.

Announcing The Mind Reels, and Why Only You Can Make It a Success

Freddie deBoer • 5909 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
📚 Literature Fiction Publishing Writing Books Reviews
  1. The author is excited to announce their new book, 'The Mind Reels', which is about a college student facing mental struggles. They feel proud of the work and appreciate the chance to publish it.
  2. For the book to succeed, the author emphasizes the importance of grassroots support from readers since mainstream media may not cover it fairly. They hope that readers will help spread the word and support independent publishing.
  3. There’s a chance for subscribers to win an advanced copy of the book in a giveaway, encouraging readers to engage and participate in the launch excitement.

36 Writing Jobs, Internships, Volunteer Opps, Fellowships, and More

The Sub Club Newsletter • 594 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Editing Fiction Non-fiction
  1. There are many job opportunities available for writers, including full-time positions, internships, and volunteer roles. This can help you start or develop your career in writing and publishing.
  2. The newsletter aims to provide solid job listings, focusing on roles beyond just freelance writing to support career building in the writing field.
  3. If you already work in writing, your personal stories about breaking into the field can be valuable and are welcome to be shared, helping others learn from your experience.
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A Hopeless Introvert's Guide to Hopeful Public Speaking

Unmapped Storylands with Elif Shafak • 8650 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
📚 Literature Public Speaking Storytelling Writing Emotions Literary Events
  1. Perception matters. If you view public speaking as a burden, it will feel heavy to you. But seeing it as a chance to connect can change everything.
  2. Being imperfect is okay. People come to listen to your stories, not to see a perfect image. Your genuine self is what really matters.
  3. Remember, the audience is part of the conversation too. We all share this confusing world, so it's important to connect and share our questions together.

Character Generation on the Carousel of Collapse

Postcards From Barsoom • 2399 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Storytelling Dystopia Culture
  1. The collapse of complex civilizations leads to interesting discussions on future societies and human roles. People often use storytelling and archetypes to explore these ideas.
  2. There is a growing conversation around the influence of gender dynamics in spaces like academia, focusing on how male engagement is changing.
  3. Podcast discussions often dive into topics like male flight from traditional roles and the significance of reality as a structured story, prompting listeners to reflect on their own roles.

Is nonfiction dead?

How to Glow in the Dark • 259 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
📚 Literature Nonfiction Publishing Writing Books Literary Trends
  1. Nonfiction isn't really dead, but selling it right now is tough. Writers need to come up with smart strategies to find success.
  2. There are rumors in the publishing world about nonfiction's decline, but these might just be worries rather than facts. It's important to dig into the reasons behind such rumors.
  3. The claim that 'nonfiction is dead' has been circulated by someone influential, but it's likely exaggerated. This shows how concerns can shape conversations in the publishing industry.

How to Show the Whole in Your Memoir

Writerly Things with Brooke Warner • 1626 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
📚 Literature Memoir Narration Writing Self-assessment
  1. Memoirs should connect personal experiences to larger themes in society. It's not just about telling your story; it's about what it means for everyone.
  2. Using a reflective narrator helps you explain what you've learned over time. This adds depth to your story by showing your growth and understanding.
  3. Identifying both the small and big parts of your story can be overwhelming but also liberating. It allows you to explore everything you’ve felt and learned.

Choose Nonbook Review Finalists 2025

Astral Codex Ten • 4611 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25
📚 Literature Books Reviews Writing Reading Criticism
  1. There are 141 entries for a Non-Book Review Contest that need to be narrowed down to about a dozen finalists. Everyone is encouraged to help out by reading and rating these entries.
  2. You should try to read different reviews randomly to get a fair spread of votes. If you read them in order, early reviews might get too many votes compared to the later ones.
  3. The voting deadline is June 20, and the finalists will be announced after counting the votes. So make sure to participate before then!

"The Perfect Writing Space"

Unmapped Storylands with Elif Shafak • 10237 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Inspiration Authors Creativity Personal narrative
  1. You don't need a fancy or big space to write. Even a small, cozy place can be inspiring and productive.
  2. What really matters for writing is having peace of mind and a sense of freedom. It's about your inner space more than your outer space.
  3. Everyone has their own way to get inspired. Music can be a powerful tool to help focus and create.

On Being Butthurt

The Elif Life • 3249 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Writing Privilege Identity Education Humor
  1. Keeping a notebook can help capture funny or interesting moments in life. It’s a way to notice the lighter side of things, even when life feels heavy.
  2. Feeling butthurt often comes from comparing ourselves to others and their privileges. This can lead to unnecessary resentment instead of recognizing our own journey.
  3. Writing can be a way to overcome feelings of butthurt. It allows us to connect with our past selves and remember our growth over time.

10 Agents Currently Looking for Thrillers

The Sub Club Newsletter • 277 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Publishing Feedback
  1. When you get feedback from agents, remember not all feedback is good or useful. Some comments might just reflect personal taste, so don't take it too personally.
  2. It can help to look for patterns in the feedback you're getting from different agents. If many agents suggest the same changes, it might be worth considering those edits.
  3. Don't rush to change your work just because an agent suggested it. Take your time to think about the feedback and decide what's best for your book.

Two stupid facts that rule the world

Experimental History • 27646 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Internet Writing Opinions Society Communication
  1. There are many people in the world, and they are all different. It's impossible to please everyone, and that's okay.
  2. Getting hate or criticism is normal when you reach many people. Instead of worrying, realize it's just part of the game.
  3. You don't need a huge audience to succeed. Even a small group of passionate readers can make a big impact.

139 Recently Opened Submission Calls, Upcoming Deadlines, Contests, Theme Calls and more

The Sub Club Newsletter • 555 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
📚 Literature Submissions Magazines Writing Contests Opportunities
  1. There are many new opportunities for writers to submit their work, including 18 recently opened submission calls and contests. It's a great time to get your writing out there!
  2. Keep an eye on deadlines, as some contests and submission calls are closing soon. Make sure to submit your work on time to maximize your chances of getting published.
  3. Theme calls can spark creativity, so consider writing for specific themes. They can guide you to produce focused and relevant pieces that fit what magazines or journals are looking for.

Breaking some huge personal news

Cloud Irregular • 2809 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
📚 Literature Novels Publishing Science fiction Satire Writing
  1. The author has sold their first novel called THE BLEB PROJECT, which is a big dream come true for them.
  2. The book mixes satire with science fiction and is about what happens when Silicon Valley invents time travel.
  3. It will likely take a while for the book to be published, possibly not until 2026, but the author is excited about working with a major publisher.

Chapter 30: Kent continues investigating Koa

PASSAGES • 1478 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Narrative Storytelling Novels
  1. Kent is investigating a case involving a woman named Mary Anderson, who had a stillborn baby twenty years ago. He is trying to confirm if she had a specific procedure after the delivery.
  2. Kent speaks with Dr. Samuel Ito, the doctor who delivered Mary's baby, to get answers. However, Dr. Ito is very cautious because of patient confidentiality rules.
  3. While waiting to hear back from the doctor, Kent reflects on his day and thinks about Koa, showing that he has personal feelings connected to his investigation.

Writing While Needed By Others

Writerly Things with Brooke Warner • 2400 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Authors Memoir Creativity Self-reflection
  1. It's hard to write when you feel like others need you all the time. Some writers find they need to physically separate themselves from distractions to focus.
  2. Writers, especially women and moms, often feel guilty for taking time for themselves to write. It's important to remind ourselves that our creative pursuits are valuable too.
  3. There are strategies to combat feelings of selfishness and guilt when prioritizing writing. Finding what works for you can help make writing a regular part of your life.

The Oversimplification of Ta-Nehisi Coates

Glenn Loury • 1329 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Debate Humanities Writing Identity
  1. Ta-Nehisi Coates' writing explores deep human experiences and how our backgrounds shape us. This shows that our nurturing environments impact our moral choices and understanding of suffering.
  2. There's a need to examine different perspectives on sensitive topics like the Israel-Palestine conflict. Understanding these viewpoints helps us grasp the complexity of people's actions and beliefs.
  3. Coates emphasizes the importance of recognizing human connections and the struggle against dehumanization, yet some critics feel he oversimplifies complex issues, making it harder to have deeper discussions.

On What Makes a Good Writer with Kevin Wilson

The Sub Club Newsletter • 1110 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Authors Publishing Community Education
  1. Finding a supportive community can really help a writer feel like their work matters. Connecting with others can make the writing journey feel a lot less lonely.
  2. Writing is both a personal and technical craft. It's important to enjoy the process and be open to learning, rather than getting too caught up in formal success markers.
  3. Art should be valued beyond just monetary success. Writers can thrive by focusing on what they love to create, regardless of whether they achieve fame or fortune.

Sub Club Weekly Digest # 5

The Sub Club Newsletter • 515 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Submissions Events
  1. There were over 150 suggestions for a new column name, showing strong community engagement. People can win $50 and a free year of Sub Club by submitting a name.
  2. A new interview series called 'On Something with Somebody' is launching, featuring insights from writers and industry experts. This will help readers learn more about writing and publishing.
  3. Sub Club is offering resources and events like submission parties to help writers find job opportunities and improve their pitching skills. These gatherings are a supportive space for writers to submit their work together.

15 Agents Seeking Literary Fiction

The Sub Club Newsletter • 773 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Non-fiction Writing Publishing Agents
  1. Querying agents can be a long process, often taking many months and requiring lots of patience. It's normal to feel ups and downs as you wait for responses.
  2. It's important to tailor your query letter to highlight your book's qualities and how it fits within its genre. Good comps can help agents understand what readers might enjoy about your story.
  3. Don't get discouraged by rejections or silence. Keep querying different agents, and remember that perseverance is key to eventually finding the right match!

Sandwiches from the Garage

Vittles • 343 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🍲 Food & Drink Culinary Arts Food culture Writing Cooking Personal narratives
  1. When writing, some people prefer simple meals that don't take much time to prepare. It's about using food as fuel to focus on the writing process.
  2. Eating repetitive or plain food can help writers maintain their energy and concentration. It's not about gourmet meals, but about keeping distractions to a minimum.
  3. The experience of eating while writing can be very personal and varies from person to person. Some find comfort in routine meals that help them stay grounded while they work.

The 25 Best Online Articles of 2024

The Honest Broker • 13863 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Writing Literature Art Media Journalism
  1. The list features 25 of the best longform articles from the past year. These articles cover a variety of topics, showing that good writing can be found in many different subjects.
  2. Supporting quality journalism is important. The writers highlighted in the list often rely on the support of their readers, so consider helping them as a new year's resolution.
  3. Many pieces explore unique personal stories and experiences. From a former Goldman Sachs trader to a psychic, these articles are interesting and reflect a wide range of human experiences.

Call for Subscriber Writing, February 2025

Freddie deBoer • 959 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Readers Authors Blogs
  1. There's a call for writing submissions from subscribers to share their work with a large audience. It's a great chance for writers to get noticed.
  2. You need to use a specific Google Form to submit your work by the deadline. Make sure to follow the instructions to avoid missing out.
  3. This is only for written pieces, like blog posts or articles, not for promoting podcasts or social media. So focus on sharing your writing!

How I Write Culture Study

Culture Study • 3885 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Essays Podcasts Writing Organization
  1. Organizing your week can help you manage different types of work like essays and Q&As. It’s about finding a balance and creating a routine.
  2. Creating interesting content often involves a bit of mystery or curiosity. This can lead people to appreciate and pay for the material you offer.
  3. Collaboration with others can enhance your work. Finding 'coworkers' or partners can support your creative process and make things more enjoyable.

Chapter 29: Jud and his family visit the Valley

PASSAGES • 1278 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Storytelling Writing Character development Narrative
  1. Jud and his family are traveling down a narrow and steep road into Waimalia Valley. It's a bit scary, but they are excited to see the wild horses.
  2. The journey brings a sense of responsibility for Jud as he drives with his family in the truck. He wants to keep them safe while they explore.
  3. On the way, Jud meets a local driver, which shows the community feel of the area. It’s nice to see locals enjoying the valley just like his family.

In praise of Japanese small, Hokkaido as Wisconsin, and pachinko memories

intellectualinting • 218 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🏝 Travel Cultural Adventure Food Photography Writing
  1. Hokkaido feels different from the rest of Japan, almost like a slice of America, especially in its open spaces and small towns. It's less crowded and offers a more relaxed vibe compared to the busy city life.
  2. Japan's small businesses thrive because of mixed-use zoning, allowing shops and homes to coexist. This setup creates a unique, local experience that reflects high-quality craftsmanship and a deep community connection.
  3. As a non-Japanese speaker, visiting smaller restaurants can be tricky. You might encounter staff who are hesitant to serve you due to language barriers and cultural nuances, leading to a desire for public trust and reputation.

Why ChatGPT Is a Balloon and the Book Is a Bicycle

Counter Craft • 819 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
📚 Literature Literary theory Writing Publishing Reading Culture
  1. Tech discussions often compare AI to past innovations. Some see it as the next big thing, while others think it might just be an overhyped trend.
  2. AI tools have made writing easier but aren't necessarily changing literature in a revolutionary way. Many writers still question what true innovation they bring.
  3. Books remain a sturdy format that people enjoy, just like riding a bike. Even with new tech, many people still prefer traditional reading over flashy interactive options.

TERRAFORM: An essay collection about the future of our planet

The Novelleist • 195 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
📚 Literature Essays Writing Publishing Discussions
  1. TERRAFORM is an essay collection where six writers discuss how we can shape the future of our planet. It'll be published online and also in a print pamphlet.
  2. You can support this project by buying a digital or print version for $5, which helps pay the writers and fund future projects.
  3. There will be a discussion event about the essays on July 23rd, and anyone can join for $10, while paid subscribers can participate for free.

From “walking in the desert” to Escaping Flatland

Building the Builders • 2 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Psychology Ambition Creativity Writing Personal Growth
  1. Raising your ambition starts with believing in yourself. When you realize you can do more than you think, it opens up new possibilities in all areas of life.
  2. Taking time for self-exploration can boost your creativity. Allowing yourself to write freely without judgment can help overcome writer's block.
  3. Pursuing your goals requires a balance between fun and responsibility. Setting aside time for both exploration and focused work helps you stay productive while enjoying the process.

Long Questions/Short Answers

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 243 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Writing Philosophy Creativity Literary Analysis Education
  1. Asking the right questions can change how you see the world. Questions can guide our thoughts and experiences more than the answers themselves.
  2. When you focus on a big question in your life, it can shape your goals and actions. This question becomes your mission, driving you toward new discoveries.
  3. Curiosity is key to learning and growth. The questions we ask help us filter out irrelevant information and find what matters to us.

The Anticlimax of Becoming an Author

Writerly Things with Brooke Warner • 2261 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Books Authors Creativity
  1. Becoming an author can feel like a big letdown after the excitement of publication. The rush of attention fades, and new authors often feel disappointed.
  2. It's normal to have mixed feelings after publishing. Authors may feel exposed, especially if they've shared personal stories, which can lead to vulnerability and sadness.
  3. After publication, it's helpful to focus on future projects and give yourself time to adjust. Good things can come later, like new readers or opportunities, so try to enjoy the journey.

A running doc with my little thoughts

Both Are True • 49 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Writing Communication Personal Growth Creativity Experimentation
  1. Writing for an audience can improve your ideas and make them more engaging. It helps you see your thoughts in a different light.
  2. Keeping a log of your thoughts can be a great way to capture ideas that may turn into bigger projects later on.
  3. Sharing your ideas in a way that others can interact with can lead to interesting discussions and feedback.

Dilatasti cor meum

Quid Amo • 937 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24
📚 Literature Fiction Writing Analysis Book Reviews Cultural Commentary
  1. Reading stories can help us understand other people's lives and feelings. It allows us to see the world from different perspectives.
  2. Tenderness in storytelling is important. Authors can show characters' struggles while still portraying their humanity and capacity for love.
  3. Finding a sense of belonging is essential. We all want to feel loved and accepted, and good books can reflect that longing and offer hope.

Criticism is the ultimate compliment

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 356 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Music Sports Writing Art Comedy Literature
  1. Criticism can be seen as positive feedback, showing that people care enough to offer their thoughts. It encourages growth and improvement.
  2. The importance of creativity is highlighted through various writing methods and the need for authentic expression in art. Hard work often makes writing look easy.
  3. The text discusses modern trends, like how people engage with social issues and popular culture, suggesting a mix of nostalgia and critique about today's lifestyles.

worldbuilding

bookbear express • 396 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Dating Relationships Personal Growth Writing Community
  1. Being a matchmaker can be very intense, mixing excitement with a lot of pressure. It's about connecting people and making a real difference in their lives.
  2. The process of matchmaking requires understanding people's personalities and emotions deeply. It can feel overwhelming, but these feelings can also be a strength in this work.
  3. Hosting events, like a Valentine's party, can be fun but also nerve-wracking. It's about creating opportunities for people to meet and connect, which feels rewarding and special.

Sub Club Weekly Digest # 4

The Sub Club Newsletter • 495 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Editing Submissions Authors
  1. They are looking for a new name for a column called 'Story Doctors' and want public input to find a better title. People can suggest lots of names and even win a prize if theirs is chosen.
  2. This week, they shared several articles about literary agents, submission calls, and indie presses that are gaining attention. These articles can help writers connect with new opportunities in publishing.
  3. They are hosting casual online events called 'Fuck it, Submit!' where people can ask questions about submitting their work. It's a fun way to get support while trying to publish your writing.